Price Guide for 1882 Nickel Variants
This guide presents price ranges for 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.
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $10.00 – $196.00Uncirculated: $63.00 – $26,400.00
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eBayCirculated: $2.25 – $189.99Uncirculated: $34.33 – $760.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $35.00 – $190.00Uncirculated: $200.00 – $27,500.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $2.00 – $27,600.00
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eBayCirculated: $300.00 – $375.00Uncirculated: $227.50 – $10,995.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $250.00 – $300.00Uncirculated: $325.00 – $12,500.00
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eBayUncirculated: $590.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $1,920.00
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eBayCirculated: $35.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $311.00 – $9,165.00
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eBayUncirculated: $490.00 – $1,385.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $550.00 – $25,000.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $460.00 – $17,625.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $2,500.00 – $25,000.00
Design and Specifications of the 1882 Nickel
The 1882 Liberty Head Nickel was part of the series that began in 1883 and continued until 1912. This coin represents the last year of the Shield Nickel design, which was replaced by the Liberty Head design in 1883. The transition between these two designs makes the 1882 nickel historically significant as it marks the end of an era in American coinage.
| Weight | 5 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 21.2 mm |
| Mint Marks | No mint mark (Philadelphia) |
| Composition | 75% copper, 25% nickel |
| Obverse Design | Liberty head facing left, designed by Charles E. Barber |
| Reverse Design | Large Roman numeral V surrounded by a wreath, designed by Charles E. Barber |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
Condition plays a crucial role in determining the value of an 1882 Nickel. While circulated examples are relatively common, uncirculated specimens, particularly those in grades MS65 and above, are considerably scarcer and more valuable.
Collectors particularly prize coins with sharp strikes, full luster, and minimal contact marks. The fields and devices of the coin should be closely examined for any signs of wear or damage, as these factors significantly impact value.
Mintage: 11,476,000
Rarity Scale: Common
Circulation Status: Widely Circulated
Preservation Rarity: Scarce in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: Moderate, higher for well-preserved specimens
Strike quality is an important consideration for 1882 Nickels. Well-struck examples with full detail in the wreath and stars are more desirable. Luster is another crucial factor, with coins retaining their original mint luster commanding higher premiums.
While not typically known for toning, some 1882 Nickels may exhibit attractive toning that can enhance their appeal to collectors. Additionally, any unusual die varieties or errors, while not commonly noted for this year, could significantly increase a coin’s value if discovered.
