Price Guide for 1885 Three Cents 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: $230.00 – $3,407.50Uncirculated: $518.00 – $29,900.00
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eBayCirculated: $79.99 – $4,799.00Uncirculated: $6,560.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $1,500.00 – $4,500.00Uncirculated: $4,750.00 – $35,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $305.50 – $2,115.00Uncirculated: $1.50 – $6,990.00
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eBayCirculated: $319.94 – $482.22Uncirculated: $250.00 – $1,425.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $85.00 – $275.00Uncirculated: $300.00 – $10,000.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $364.25 – $13,225.00
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eBayUncirculated: $337.00 – $910.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $525.00 – $17,500.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $2,530.00 – $8,225.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $5,500.00
Design and Specifications of the 1885 Three Cents
The 1885 Three Cent Nickel was part of the Three Cent Nickel series, which was produced from 1865 to 1889. This coin was introduced during the Civil War era to facilitate small transactions when silver coins were being hoarded. By 1885, the coin’s production had significantly decreased due to reduced demand and the increasing popularity of the five-cent nickel.
| Weight | 1.94 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 17.9 mm |
| Mint Marks | None (Philadelphia only) |
| Composition | 75% copper, 25% nickel |
| Obverse Design | Liberty head facing left, wearing a coronet inscribed with 'LIBERTY', designed by James B. Longacre |
| Reverse Design | Roman numeral III within a decorative C-shaped wreath, designed by James B. Longacre |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
The condition of the 1885 Three Cent Nickel has a significant impact on its value, particularly for circulation strikes. Due to the extremely low mintage of only 1,000 coins, well-preserved examples are exceptionally rare and valuable. Coins in Mint State grades command substantial premiums.
For proof coins, while more common than circulation strikes, high-grade examples (PR65 and above) are still highly sought after. The quality of strike, luster, and absence of contact marks are crucial factors in determining value.
Mintage: 1,000
Rarity Scale: Very Rare
Circulation Status: Limited Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Extremely rare in high grades (MS65 and above) due to low mintage and limited survival rate
Varieties Errors: None notable for this year
Market Demand: High, due to its status as a key date and low mintage
Mintage: 3,790
Rarity Scale: Rare
Circulation Status: Not Intended for Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Rare in high grades (PR65 and above), but more common than circulation strikes
Varieties Errors: None notable for this year
Market Demand: High, especially for well-preserved specimens
Toning can play a role in the desirability of both circulation strikes and proofs. Attractive, natural toning can enhance the value, especially for proof coins.
The historical significance of the 1885 Three Cent Nickel as one of the lowest mintage dates in the series adds to its numismatic appeal. Provenance can also be a factor, with coins from famous collections potentially commanding a premium.
Due to its rarity, authenticity is a crucial concern. Coins should be certified by reputable grading services to ensure genuineness and accurate grading, which can significantly impact value in the marketplace.
