1878 Nickel Value: Mint Varieties, Rarity, and Current Prices

Price Guide for 1878 Nickel Variants

This guide presents price ranges for 1878 Nickel variants from three sources: eBay sales, third-party auctions, and PCGS guides. Values are shown for various conditions, allowing collectors to compare across different market segments. Price estimates may vary between sources, especially for rarer variants.

1878 Nickel, CAM (Proof)

• 3rd Party Price

  Uncirculated: $840.00 - $9,987.50
• eBay

  Uncirculated: $1,735.00
• PCGS Price Guide

  Uncirculated: $1,400.00 - $12,500.00

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1878 Nickel, DCAM (Proof)

• 3rd Party Price

  Uncirculated: $4,140.00 - $25,850.00
• PCGS Price Guide

  Uncirculated: $5,500.00 - $22,500.00

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1878 Nickel (Proof)

• 3rd Party Price

  Circulated: $600.00 - $1,265.00

  Uncirculated: $11.50 - $4,830.00
• eBay

  Circulated: $950.00 - $1,152.00

  Uncirculated: $761.09 - $2,070.00
• PCGS Price Guide

  Circulated: $1,100.00 - $1,175.00

  Uncirculated: $1,200.00 - $3,250.00

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Design and Specifications of the 1878 Nickel

Rarity Factors and Value Drivers

The condition of 1878 Shield Nickels significantly impacts their value. Many coins from this year suffer from weak strikes, particularly on the reverse wreath details. This makes well-struck examples highly desirable to collectors.

Luster is another crucial factor. Coins with original mint luster, free from significant wear or environmental damage, command premium prices. The presence of full steps on the reverse shield is also a key indicator of quality and can greatly increase value.

Toning can play a role in the desirability of 1878 Shield Nickels. Coins with attractive, natural toning may be more appealing to collectors than those with no toning or artificial color.

As the final year of issue, the 1878 Shield Nickel holds special interest for collectors completing date sets. This factor, combined with its relatively low mintage, makes it a key date in the series and drives demand, especially for higher-grade examples.

Collectors should be aware of cleaned or altered surfaces, which can significantly decrease the value of these coins. Professional grading is recommended for high-value specimens to ensure authenticity and accurate assessment of condition.