1867 Three-Cent Piece Value Guide (Nickel & Silver)
1867 Three-Cent Nickel values: $20-$11,500. 1867 Three-Cent Silver values: $550-$36,000. Complete price guide, grading tips, and identification for both types.
The 1867 three-cent pieces comprise two distinct coins: the common Three-Cent Nickel worth $20 to $11,500, and the rare Three-Cent Silver worth $550 to $36,000.
- 1867 Three-Cent Nickel (Business Strike):$20–$85 circulated; $225–$1,750 uncirculated; $11,500 for MS-67
- 1867 Three-Cent Nickel (Proof):$310–$6,750; Cameo examples to $9,500
- 1867 Three-Cent Silver (Business Strike):$550–$2,000 circulated; $2,900–$20,000 uncirculated; $36,000 auction record
- 1867 Three-Cent Silver (Proof):$625–$8,500; Cameo examples to $30,550
The nickel version was a workhorse struck in millions; the silver trime was produced in tiny quantities primarily for collectors, making it dramatically scarcer.
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Introduction: Two Coins, Two Missions
The year 1867 produced two distinct three-cent denominations that served vastly different purposes in post-Civil War America. The Three-Cent Nickel, struck in 3.9 million pieces, was a utilitarian workhorse designed to facilitate daily commerce as the nation transitioned away from fractional paper currency. The Three-Cent Silver (Type 3), with a minuscule mintage of just 4,000 business strikes, was essentially a collector's coin by this point, a fading remnant of the silver standard era.
Values for these coins diverge dramatically. The common nickel version ranges from $20 in heavily worn condition to $11,500 for superb Mint State examples. The silver trime, meanwhile, commands $550 to $36,000, with every example representing a genuine numismatic rarity. Both coins were struck exclusively at the Philadelphia Mint and bear no mint marks.
This guide provides comprehensive pricing, identification guidance, grading standards, and authentication advice for both 1867 three-cent issues. Understanding the differences between these two coins is essential, as collectors often encounter both types when researching the denomination.
How to Identify Your 1867 Three-Cent Piece
The first step in valuation is determining which of the two three-cent types you possess. While both bear the date 1867 and the Roman numeral III denomination marker, they are distinctly different coins in size, composition, and design.
Three-Cent Nickel Identification
The Three-Cent Nickel is the larger and heavier of the two coins, measuring 17.9 mm in diameter and weighing 1.94 grams. It is composed of 75% copper and 25% nickel, giving it a slightly grayish appearance rather than the bright copper-red of a cent or the brilliant white of silver.
The obverse features a left-facing portrait of Liberty wearing a coronet (diadem) inscribed with "LIBERTY." The date 1867 appears below the portrait. The reverse displays the Roman numeral III enclosed within a wreath of laurel leaves, with the inscription "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" around the periphery. Designer James B. Longacre created this utilitarian design specifically for the hard copper-nickel alloy.
All 1867 Three-Cent Nickels were produced at the Philadelphia Mint and bear no mint mark. This was standard for Philadelphia issues of this era—the lack of a mint mark itself identifies the coin as a Philadelphia product.
Three-Cent Silver Identification
The Three-Cent Silver, nicknamed the "trime," is noticeably smaller at just 14 mm in diameter and weighs only 0.75 grams. Its 90% silver composition gives it the characteristic white luster of silver coinage. The coin feels thin and delicate compared to the robust nickel version.
The obverse is dominated by a large six-pointed star containing the Union Shield. The critical design identifier for 1867 is that this coin is a Type 3 issue, meaning the obverse star has two outlines bordering it (Type 1 had no outlines; Type 2 had one outline; Type 3 had two). The date 1867 appears below the star. The reverse shows the Roman numeral III inside a large, ornate letter "C," with "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" around the rim.
Like its nickel counterpart, all 1867 Three-Cent Silver coins were struck at Philadelphia and carry no mint mark. The Type 3 design ran from 1859 through the series' end in 1873.
Quick Differentiation
If your coin is larger (similar to a modern dime), heavier, and grayish-silver in color with Liberty's portrait, it's the Nickel version. If it's quite small (smaller than a modern dime), lightweight, brilliant white in silver, and features a star on the obverse, it's the much rarer Silver version.
1867 Three-Cent Piece Price Guide
The market for 1867 three-cent pieces is bifurcated between the common nickel version and the rare silver trime. Within each type, values are further stratified by strike type (business strike versus proof), grade, and for proofs, the presence of cameo contrast. The following price data represents market values for problem-free, certified examples as of late 2025.
💡 About These Prices
Prices shown are for coins certified by major third-party grading services (PCGS, NGC). Raw (uncertified) coins typically trade at discounts of 20-40%. Market values can fluctuate; these figures represent current price guide data and recent auction results.
1867 Three-Cent Nickel (Business Strike)
The 1867 Three-Cent Nickel is a common date within the series, with an original mintage of 3,915,000 pieces. PCGS estimates approximately 15,000 examples survive in all grades today, with about 1,000 in Mint State (MS-60 or better) and only 150 at the Gem level (MS-65+). This steep survival drop-off at higher grades drives strong price appreciation for well-preserved specimens.
A critical factor in nickel three-cent pricing is strike quality. The hard copper-nickel alloy was notoriously difficult for the Philadelphia Mint to work with, resulting in many weakly struck coins. Weakness typically appears on the fine vertical lines of the Roman numeral "III" on the reverse. Coins with full, sharp strikes command significant premiums over weakly struck examples of the same grade.
| Grade | PCGS Price Guide | NGC Price Guide |
|---|---|---|
| G-4 | $27 | $20 |
| VF-20 | $35 | $45 |
| EF-40 | $70 | $55 |
| AU-50 | $85 | $65 |
| MS-62 | $225 | $150 |
| MS-63 | $280 | $200 |
| MS-64 | $360 | $325 |
| MS-65 | $675 | $600 |
| MS-66 | $1,750 | $1,300 |
| MS-67 | $11,500 | $5,000 |
Note the significant divergence between PCGS and NGC pricing at MS-67, reflecting the extreme rarity and market uncertainty at this grade level.
1867 Three-Cent Nickel (Proof)
The Philadelphia Mint produced 625 proof examples of the 1867 Three-Cent Nickel, with PCGS estimating around 550 survivors. These were struck on specially prepared planchets with polished dies for sale to contemporary collectors, typically as part of multi-coin proof sets.
For proof coins, the most significant value driver beyond numerical grade is the degree of cameo contrast—the visual effect created when frosted design elements (devices) contrast sharply against deeply mirrored background fields. Coins exhibiting this contrast receive Cameo (CAM) or Deep Cameo (DCAM) designations and command substantial premiums. For example, a standard PR-65 is valued at $1,000-$1,250, while a PR-65 CAM rises to $1,300.
| Grade | Standard Proof | Cameo (PCGS) |
|---|---|---|
| PR-62 | $310-$400 | $475 |
| PR-63 | $390-$450 | $550 |
| PR-64 | $525-$675 | $700 |
| PR-65 | $1,000-$1,250 | $1,300 |
| PR-66 | $1,500-$1,850 | $1,900 |
| PR-67 | $6,500-$6,750 | $9,500 |
Deep Cameo (DCAM) examples are extremely rare for this issue and do not have established pricing; they would command significant premiums over standard Cameo.
1867 Three-Cent Silver (Business Strike)
The 1867 business strike trime is a classic numismatic rarity. With a minuscule original mintage of just 4,000 pieces, the issue was largely ignored by contemporary collectors who preferred specially prepared proof strikes. This historical neglect resulted in an exceptionally low survival rate, particularly in uncirculated condition. High-grade business strikes are far rarer than the already-low mintage suggests.
PCGS records a highest auction price of $36,000 for a business strike 1867 trime, underscoring the extreme difficulty of locating top-tier specimens. Even heavily circulated examples command strong premiums due to the issue's overall scarcity.
| Grade | PCGS Price Guide | NGC Price Guide |
|---|---|---|
| G-4 | $675 | $550 |
| VF-20 | $1,175 | $850 |
| EF-40 | $1,650 | $1,500 |
| AU-50 | $2,000 | $1,650 |
| MS-62 | $3,000 | $2,900 |
| MS-63 | $3,500 | $3,950 |
| MS-64 | $3,650 | $5,000 |
| MS-65 | $4,000 | $12,500 |
| MS-66 | $4,500 | $17,500 |
| MS-67 | $5,500 | $20,000 |
Significant variance between PCGS and NGC pricing at MS-65 and above reflects differing market interpretations of rarity and condition for this extremely scarce issue.
1867 Three-Cent Silver (Proof)
With an identical proof mintage of 625 pieces, the proof 1867 trime is paradoxically the more frequently encountered high-grade representative of the date. Like other proof coins of the era, the market is highly stratified by cameo contrast. The value escalation for CAM designation is even more pronounced than with the nickel version. A standard PR-65 is valued around $1,700-$1,900, but a PR-65 CAM commands $2,750—a premium of over 60%. At the gem PR-67 level, a standard proof may bring $8,500, while a PR-67 CAM has sold for as much as $30,550 at auction.
| Grade | Standard Proof (NGC) | Cameo (PCGS) |
|---|---|---|
| PR-62 | $625-$675 | $1,100 |
| PR-63 | $860-$950 | $1,650 |
| PR-64 | $1,250-$1,380 | $2,250 |
| PR-65 | $1,700-$1,900 | $2,750 |
| PR-66 | $2,800-$3,500 | $4,250 |
| PR-67 | $8,500 | $18,500+ |
Auction record: $30,550(Heritage, 2015) for PR-67 specimen. PCGS does not list separate values for non-cameo proofs.
Grading Your 1867 Three-Cent Piece
Grading is the process of evaluating a coin's state of preservation on a standardized 70-point scale, from Poor (P-1) to Perfect Mint State (MS-70) or Perfect Proof (PR-70). For circulated coins, grades focus on the amount of wear; for uncirculated coins, the emphasis shifts to preservation of original mint luster, surface quality, and strike sharpness. Understanding these grading nuances is essential for accurate valuation.
Circulated Grades (G-4 through AU-58)
Good (G-4): Heavy wear across all design elements. For the Three-Cent Nickel, Liberty's portrait details are worn smooth, and the word "LIBERTY" on her diadem may be partially effaced. On the reverse, the III is still visible but the laurel wreath details are largely worn away. For the Three-Cent Silver, the star's shield is barely visible, and the date may be weak. All lettering remains legible but lacks sharpness.
Very Fine (VF-20): Moderate wear but major design elements remain clear. On the Nickel, Liberty's hair shows some detail, and "LIBERTY" is fully readable though worn. The reverse III shows moderate wear on its vertical lines. On the Silver, the star's shield details are visible but worn, and about half of the original detail remains in the design.
Extremely Fine (EF-40): Light wear on the highest design points. The Nickel shows slight wear on Liberty's cheek and hair, with "LIBERTY" sharp. The Silver shows light wear on the star's points and shield, but most fine details are present.
About Uncirculated (AU-50/58): Traces of wear on the highest points only. Original mint luster is present but may be diminished. These coins appear nearly as-struck but show slight friction on the high points.
Mint State Grades (MS-60 through MS-70)
MS-60 to MS-62: No trace of wear but may exhibit numerous contact marks, hairlines, or other imperfections. Luster may be dull or impaired. These are the lowest uncirculated grades and often represent coins that saw brief handling or poor storage.
MS-63 to MS-64: Moderate number of contact marks or impairments, but overall eye appeal is acceptable. Luster is present though perhaps incomplete. MS-64 specimens show better eye appeal and fewer marks than MS-63.
MS-65 to MS-66 (Gem): Minor imperfections visible under magnification but strong eye appeal. Full original mint luster with good strike quality. These are choice uncirculated specimens that represent the quality most advanced collectors seek.
MS-67+ (Superb Gem): Exceptional preservation with minimal imperfections even under magnification. Full, vibrant original luster and strong strike. These are world-class specimens that represent the finest examples available.
⚠️ Strike Quality Matters for Three-Cent Nickels
Due to the hardness of the copper-nickel alloy, many 1867 Three-Cent Nickels exhibit weak strikes, particularly on the vertical lines of the reverse III. A sharply struck coin will command a significant premium over a weakly struck example of the same numerical grade. When evaluating these coins, strike quality should be considered alongside the grade itself.
Proof Grades (PR-60 through PR-70)
Proof coins are graded using the same numerical system but with the "PR" or "PF" prefix. The key diagnostic is the preservation of the mirror-like fields and frosted devices. Hairlines from cleaning or mishandling are the most common detractors.
Cameo (CAM) Designation: Proof coins where the design elements exhibit light to moderate frosting contrasting with mirrored fields. This designation adds significant premium value.
Deep Cameo (DCAM) Designation: Proof coins with heavy frosting on devices and deeply mirrored fields, creating maximum contrast. Extremely rare for 1867 issues and commands the highest premiums.
A key test for mint luster on uncirculated coins is the "cartwheel effect"—a rotating band of light visible when tilting the coin under illumination. If this effect is absent, the original mint surface has likely been compromised by cleaning or other damage.
Authentication and Problem Coin Detection
As values for certain three-cent issues have risen, counterfeits have entered the market. Additionally, many coins have been improperly cleaned or otherwise damaged, significantly reducing their numismatic value. Learning to identify these problems is essential for making sound purchasing decisions.
The most common counterfeit diagnostics include mushy, poorly defined details, especially in critical areas like the word "LIBERTY" on the nickel's diadem or the shield details on the silver's star. Fake coins often exhibit an unnatural surface color or texture that differs from genuine examples. One telltale sign is a date that appears unusually bold or sharp relative to the rest of a worn design—this can indicate the date was punched into a generic counterfeit die. Under magnification, look for tiny raised dots or lumps scattered across the fields, which are artifacts of the casting process commonly used to create counterfeit dies. Always verify that weight and diameter match official specifications: 1.94 grams and 17.9 mm for the Nickel; 0.75 grams and 14 mm for the Silver.
Cleaned coins represent another significant category of problem coins. Abrasive cleaning—rubbing with a cloth, brush, or other implement—leaves a network of fine parallel scratches called hairlines. These are most visible under magnification when tilting the coin under a light source. The scratches catch the light and create an obvious linear pattern across the surface. Chemical cleaning or dipping strips away the coin's natural toning and original mint luster, resulting in an unnaturally bright appearance (for recently cleaned coins) or a dull, lifeless surface (for coins that were cleaned long ago and have since oxidized). For uncirculated coins, the absence of the cartwheel luster effect is a strong indicator that the surface has been compromised.
Other problem categories include environmental damage (corrosion, verdigris, or staining), physical damage (dents, scratches, rim damage), and tooling (where details have been artificially enhanced with engraving tools). Third-party grading services like PCGS and NGC will not grade coins with these problems, instead returning them as "Genuine" with a details description (e.g., "Genuine—Cleaned"). Such coins trade at significant discounts—often 50% or more below the value of a problem-free example of the same grade.
For high-value purchases, especially rare dates or high-grade examples, it is strongly recommended to acquire only coins certified by PCGS or NGC. Their tamper-evident holders provide authenticity guarantees and protect the coin from environmental damage. While raw (uncertified) coins can represent value, they carry authentication risk and typically trade at 20-40% discounts compared to certified examples.
Proper Storage and Preservation
Proper storage is essential to maintaining your coins' condition and value over time. Both the copper-nickel and silver compositions are susceptible to environmental damage if not properly preserved.
The most critical rule is to never clean your coins. Even gentle wiping can cause microscopic abrasions that destroy original luster and surfaces. Collectors and dealers can immediately identify cleaned coins, and such pieces trade at significant discounts. If a coin appears dirty or tarnished, leave it as-is—natural toning is often valued by collectors and is far preferable to cleaning damage.
Store coins in inert, archival-quality holders. Third-party grading service slabs (PCGS or NGC) provide excellent long-term protection with their sonically sealed, inert plastic holders. For raw coins, use non-PVC coin flips, capsules, or albums made from archival materials. Avoid holders made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC), as this material can leach chemicals that cause irreversible green corrosion on coin surfaces.
Environmental conditions matter significantly. Store coins in a cool, dry location with stable temperature and low humidity—ideally between 65-70°F and 30-40% relative humidity. Avoid attics, basements, or other areas prone to temperature fluctuations or moisture. Keep coins away from sources of sulfur (rubber bands, certain woods, paper products) which can cause toning on silver coins.
When handling coins, always hold them by their edges rather than touching the obverse or reverse surfaces. Oils and acids from skin contact can cause spots and discoloration over time. Many serious collectors use cotton gloves when handling valuable specimens. Never speak directly over coins, as moisture from breath can cause spotting.
For the copper-nickel Three-Cent Nickels, be particularly vigilant about environmental protection. The copper content makes these coins susceptible to spotting and corrosion if exposed to moisture or pollutants. The 90% silver Three-Cent Silver pieces are more stable but can develop unattractive toning if stored improperly. Natural, light toning is often acceptable or even desirable on silver coins, but heavy black or uneven toning can detract from value.
Mint Errors and Their Value
The three-cent nickel series is particularly prone to mint errors due to the difficulty of striking the hard copper-nickel alloy. While no major, widely recognized mint errors are documented specifically for the 1867 date, various error types do appear across the series and can add value when dramatic or unusual.
Common error categories include minor die cracks, die clashes (where obverse and reverse die images are transferred to each other when dies strike without a planchet between them), and cuds (die breaks at the rim that create raised, unstruck areas). These minor errors are frequently encountered and generally add little to no value unless they are exceptionally large or dramatic. The hard alloy also led to lamination flaws (where the metal surface flakes or peels) and various striking anomalies.
More significant errors that can command substantial premiums include clipped planchets (where part of the blank metal disc is missing), off-center strikes (where the design is not properly centered on the planchet), wrong planchet errors (where a three-cent coin is struck on planchet intended for a different denomination), and broadstrikes (coins struck outside the collar that normally restrains the metal). An example listing shows an 1867-era clipped planchet three-cent nickel valued around $28, while a dramatic off-center strike from a similar year commanded over $500.
Error coin valuation is highly situational, depending on the error type, severity, and the host coin's base grade. There is no standardized price guide for most errors; values are typically established through auction results and dealer-to-dealer transactions. Collectors seeking error coins should consult specialized references and consider joining organizations like CONECA (Combined Organizations of Numismatic Error Collectors of America) for authentication and valuation guidance.
For three-cent silver coins, mint errors are considerably rarer due to the much smaller mintages and the fact that most production consisted of carefully made proof strikes. Any authenticated error on a silver trime would be a significant numismatic rarity.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is my 1867 three-cent piece worth?
Value depends on which type you have. The Three-Cent Nickel ranges from $20 in worn condition to $11,500 for superb mint state. The Three-Cent Silver is far rarer, worth $550-$36,000 depending on grade. Proof examples of both types command premiums, especially those with cameo contrast. The nickel is large and grayish; the silver is small and white. Accurate grading by a professional service (PCGS or NGC) is essential for determining precise value.
How do I tell the difference between the nickel and silver three-cent coins?
Size is the easiest identifier. The Three-Cent Nickel is 17.9 mm in diameter (similar to a modern dime) and weighs 1.94 grams, with a grayish copper-nickel appearance. It shows Liberty's portrait on the obverse. The Three-Cent Silver is only 14 mm (smaller than a dime) and weighs 0.75 grams, with bright silver-white color. It displays a six-pointed star on the obverse. The nickel feels solid and robust; the silver feels thin and delicate.
Do 1867 three-cent pieces have mint marks?
No. All 1867 three-cent pieces, both nickel and silver, were struck exclusively at the Philadelphia Mint and bear no mint mark. The absence of a mint mark is the identifying feature of Philadelphia production during this era.
What does the melt value tell me about my coin's worth?
For 1867 three-cent pieces, melt value is essentially irrelevant to numismatic worth. The Three-Cent Nickel contains approximately $0.24 worth of copper and nickel, while the Three-Cent Silver contains about $1.07 in silver content. Even the lowest collector value—$20 for a worn nickel or $550 for a worn silver trime—far exceeds melt value. These coins derive their value entirely from numismatic factors: rarity, historical significance, and collector demand.
Should I get my 1867 three-cent piece professionally graded?
For valuable specimens, yes. Third-party grading provides authentication, assigns a universally recognized grade, and protects the coin in a tamper-evident holder. The grading fee (typically $20-$50 depending on service level) is justified when the coin's value exceeds $200-$300. For the rare Three-Cent Silver, professional grading is almost always recommended. For common-grade Three-Cent Nickels in circulated condition, the cost may not be justified unless you're planning to sell. Certified coins typically bring 20-40% premiums over raw coins of the same grade.
What is a "Type 3" Three-Cent Silver?
The Three-Cent Silver series had three distinct design types. Type 1 (1851-1853) had no outlines around the obverse star. Type 2 (1854-1858) added one outline. Type 3 (1859-1873) features two outlines bordering the star. All 1867 silver three-cent pieces are Type 3, identifiable by these two concentric outlines around the six-pointed star on the obverse. This design feature helps distinguish the coin from earlier types and is important for proper identification and cataloging.
What is "cameo" contrast on proof coins?
Cameo contrast refers to the visual effect on proof coins where the raised design elements (devices) exhibit a frosted, matte appearance that contrasts sharply with the deeply mirrored, reflective background fields. This occurs when dies are specially prepared or are in early states of use. Coins with this characteristic receive CAM (Cameo) or DCAM (Deep Cameo) designations and command significant premiums. For example, a 1867 Three-Cent Nickel PR-65 without designation might bring $1,000-$1,250, while a PR-65 CAM commands $1,300 or more. The effect is highly desirable as it creates exceptional eye appeal.
Why is strike quality important for Three-Cent Nickels?
The copper-nickel alloy was extremely hard and difficult for 1860s-era mint equipment to strike properly. As a result, many Three-Cent Nickels exhibit weak strikes, particularly on the fine vertical lines of the Roman numeral III on the reverse. A coin with a full, sharp strike—where all design elements are crisply defined—is significantly scarcer than a weakly struck example and will command a premium even within the same numerical grade. When evaluating these coins, collectors should examine strike quality alongside surface preservation and luster.
Are there any valuable varieties or errors for 1867 three-cent pieces?
For the year 1867 specifically, no major die varieties that command significant premiums are documented. While minor proof die marriages (JD-1, JD-2) exist, they are not widely collected or priced separately. Mint errors such as clipped planchets, off-center strikes, and die cracks do appear in the series and can add value when dramatic, but these are evaluated individually rather than as established varieties. The primary value drivers for 1867 three-cent pieces are the coin type (nickel versus silver), grade, and for proofs, cameo contrast.
How should I store and preserve my three-cent coins?
Never clean coins—even gentle wiping destroys value. Store in archival-quality, non-PVC holders in a cool, dry environment (65-70°F, 30-40% humidity). Third-party grading slabs provide excellent protection. For raw coins, use inert plastic capsules or flips. Handle only by edges, never touching surfaces. Avoid exposure to moisture, sulfur sources, or temperature fluctuations. The copper-nickel composition of Three-Cent Nickels is particularly susceptible to spotting if improperly stored. Natural, light toning on silver coins is often acceptable, but heavy or uneven toning detracts from value.
Research Methodology and Sources
This guide synthesizes pricing data from multiple authoritative sources including PCGS CoinFacts, NGC Coin Explorer, and major auction house results from Heritage Auctions. Price guides reflect market values as of late October 2025 for coins certified by major third-party grading services (PCGS, NGC, CACG). Historical and technical information draws from scholarly references including standard numismatic references and specialized studies of the three-cent series.
Market values for rare coins can fluctuate based on auction results, changes in collector demand, and overall economic conditions. The prices presented represent current market consensus but should be viewed as guidelines rather than fixed values. For the most accurate assessment of a specific coin's value, consult current auction results and multiple dealer quotes. Additional research resources include the PCGS CoinFacts database and the NGC Coin Explorer.
Authentication and grading information incorporates guidance from PCGS and NGC counterfeit detection resources, industry-standard grading references, and expert numismatic opinion. Readers are encouraged to seek professional authentication for high-value coins and to utilize the certification services of PCGS, NGC, or CACG for significant specimens.
