Price Guide for 1889 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: $19.98 – $2,640.00Uncirculated: $81.00 – $36,425.00
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eBayCirculated: $3.00 – $225.50Uncirculated: $73.55 – $9,850.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $15.00 – $260.00Uncirculated: $275.00 – $45,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $141.00 – $632.00Uncirculated: $1.25 – $7,475.00
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eBayCirculated: $380.00Uncirculated: $132.00 – $811.13
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $250.00 – $7,500.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $1,020.00
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eBayUncirculated: $275.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $100.00 – $400.00Uncirculated: $750.00 – $1,750.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $2,233.00 – $17,625.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $5,500.00 – $22,500.00
Design and Specifications of the 1889 Nickel
The 1889 Liberty Head (V) Nickel was part of a series that began in 1883 and continued until 1912. This coin marked the seventh year of the Liberty Head nickel design, which replaced the Shield nickel. The series is notable for its early controversy, as the initial 1883 design lacked the word ‘CENTS,’ leading to some attempts to gold-plate and pass off the coins as $5 gold pieces.
| Weight | 5.0 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 21.2 mm |
| Mint Marks | None (Philadelphia) |
| Composition | 75% copper, 25% nickel |
| Obverse Design | Liberty Head (V Nickel), designed by Charles E. Barber |
| Reverse Design | Wreath surrounding Roman numeral V, designed by Charles E. Barber |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
The condition of an 1889 Liberty Head Nickel significantly impacts its value. While the coin is relatively common in circulated grades, it becomes increasingly scarce in higher mint state conditions. Coins in MS65 or better are quite rare and command substantial premiums.
Key factors affecting value include:
1. Strike quality: Well-struck examples with full details are more desirable.
2. Luster: Coins with original mint luster are highly prized.
3. Surface preservation: Minimal contact marks or blemishes increase value.
4. Toning: Natural, attractive toning can enhance appeal and value.
Mintage: 15,881,361
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
Several factors can influence the value of an 1889 Liberty Head Nickel beyond its condition:
1. Historical significance: As part of the early Liberty Head series, it holds interest for collectors of 19th-century coinage.
2. Type set demand: The coin is popular for type set collections, increasing overall demand.
3. Population rarity: While not a rare date, high-grade examples are scarce, affecting value in top conditions.
4. Market trends: Overall interest in 19th-century U.S. coinage can impact value.
5. Provenance: Coins with notable ownership history may command a premium.
