Three Cent Nickel

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Why Buy from LCR?

At LCR Coin, we specialize in certified rare coins, modern collectibles, Pre-1933 gold, and precious metals backed by over 35 years of industry experience. Whether you are building a collection, investing in gold and silver, or searching for sought-after modern releases, we focus on offering quality products backed by respected grading services and professional customer support.

We specialize in certified coins from leading grading companies including NGC, PCGS, and CAC, along with premium U.S. Mint releases, low-mintage issues, and advanced designation coins. Every order is handled with care, secure packaging, and a commitment to transparency from purchase to delivery.

  • Certified coins from industry-leading grading services
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Frequently Asked Questions

Is shipping free?

Yes.

  • Orders $349 and over ship FREE with full insurance within the United States.
  • Orders under $349 are charged a minimum $16.95 insured shipping fee.
How do pre-orders work at LCR Coin?

Pre-order pricing is locked in and charged in full at the time of purchase. As precious metals prices and U.S. Mint issue prices change, future inventory is often higher. Your pre-order secures both your price and your allocation.

You may cancel your pre-order at any time prior to fulfillment for a full refund. However, if you choose to place a new order later, it will be subject to current market pricing and availability.

Estimated delivery dates are provided on each product page and are subject to change based on U.S. Mint, grading service, or supplier release schedules.

Are your coins certified by PCGS, NGC, and CAC?

Yes. LCR Coin proudly offers a wide selection of coins certified and graded by the industry’s leading third-party grading companies, including PCGS, NGC, and CAC.

Why buy from LCR Coin?

LCR Coin has been a trusted rare coin and precious metals dealer for over 30 years, offering certified rare coins, modern releases, and gold & silver bullion from the industry’s leading grading services.

As an Authorized Dealer for PCGS, NGC, and CAC, we are committed to providing collectors and investors with high-quality certified coins, competitive pricing, secure shipping, and exceptional customer service.

Estimated delivery dates are provided on the product page and are subject to change based on U.S. Mint or supplier release schedules. 

More About This Collection

Three Cent Nickels (1865–1889)

The Three Cent Nickel, introduced in 1865, was designed by U.S. Mint Chief Engraver James B. Longacre as a practical solution to the shortage of small change during the Civil War. Struck in a copper-nickel alloy, the new denomination helped restore coinage to circulation at a time when silver coins were widely hoarded.

Produced from 1865 through 1889, Three Cent Nickels offer collectors a distinctive series of nineteenth-century American coins, including low-mintage dates, Proof issues, and collectible die varieties.

History and Design of the Three Cent Nickel

Introduced in 1865 during the final year of the Civil War, the Three Cent Nickel was struck in an alloy of 75% copper and 25% nickel. Its introduction helped address the shortage of small-denomination coins in circulation, marking an important development in nineteenth-century American coinage.

Longacre's obverse features a left-facing portrait of Liberty wearing a coronet inscribed LIBERTY, surrounded by UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, with the date below.

The reverse displays the Roman numeral III within a wreath, representing the coin's three-cent denomination.

All Three Cent Nickels were struck at the Philadelphia Mint and carry no mintmark.

Mintages and Collectible Dates

The Three Cent Nickel enjoyed strong initial demand, with more than 11 million coins struck in 1865. Production declined substantially in later years as the need for the denomination diminished.

Several dates from the 1880s had exceptionally low circulation-strike mintages, including the 1884, 1885, and 1887 issues. In some years, Proof production exceeded the number of coins struck for circulation.

The denomination was discontinued in 1889, bringing an end to a short-lived but historically significant series.

Collecting Certified Three Cent Nickels

Collectors pursue Three Cent Nickels by date, condition, and strike type, with particular interest in low-mintage circulation strikes and surviving Proof examples.