Price Guide for 1884 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: $20.00 – $277.00Uncirculated: $104.00 – $19,975.00
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eBayCirculated: $4.25 – $231.39Uncirculated: $28.00 – $4,187.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $20.00 – $260.00Uncirculated: $275.00 – $22,500.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $47.00 – $1,100.00Uncirculated: $1.85 – $5,581.25
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eBayCirculated: $368.10 – $449.00Uncirculated: $171.50 – $2,500.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $100.00 – $225.00Uncirculated: $250.00 – $2,750.00
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eBayUncirculated: $399.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $110.00 – $300.00Uncirculated: $450.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $207.00 – $8,510.00
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eBayUncirculated: $187.50 – $2,757.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $350.00 – $6,000.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $705.00 – $24,675.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $1,250.00 – $27,500.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $329.00 – $604.00
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eBayUncirculated: $335.00 – $474.99
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $458.25 – $3,525.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $600.00 – $6,250.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $6,168.75
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $3,250.00 – $9,750.00
Design and Specifications of the 1884 Nickel
The 1884 Liberty Head Nickel, also known as the V Nickel, was part of a series that began in 1883 and continued until 1912. This coin is notable for being produced during a period of economic recovery following the Panic of 1873. The Liberty Head design was a departure from the previous Shield nickel and represented a more artistic approach to coinage.
| Weight | 5 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 21.2 mm |
| Mint Marks | None (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
The condition of an 1884 Liberty Head Nickel significantly impacts its value. Coins in uncirculated condition (MS60 or better) are particularly desirable and command premium prices. The quality of the strike is crucial, as many 1884 nickels were weakly struck, especially on the reverse.
Coins with full luster and minimal contact marks are highly sought after by collectors. The presence of attractive, natural toning can also enhance the coin’s appeal and value.
Mintage: 11,273,942
Rarity Scale: Uncommon
Circulation Status: Moderate Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Scarce in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: Moderate, with higher demand for well-preserved specimens
Rarity in high grades is a key factor for the 1884 Liberty Head Nickel. While the mintage is relatively high, finding examples in gem condition (MS65 or higher) is challenging. This scarcity in top grades drives up prices for well-preserved specimens.
The historical significance of the Liberty Head design and its place in American numismatic history also contribute to its collectible value. Additionally, the coin’s age and its representation of late 19th-century American coinage make it appealing to collectors focusing on this era.
