Price Guide for 1895 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: $15.00 – $4,025.00Uncirculated: $98.00 – $21,150.00
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eBayCirculated: $3.25 – $236.50Uncirculated: $32.00 – $4,500.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $10.00 – $235.00Uncirculated: $250.00 – $22,500.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $107.00 – $312.00Uncirculated: $1.40 – $73,437.50
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eBayUncirculated: $120.00 – $649.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $150.00 – $225.00Uncirculated: $250.00 – $85,000.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $223.25 – $26,437.50
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eBayUncirculated: $321.51 – $495.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $300.00 – $17,500.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $6,462.50 – $13,200.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $12,500.00 – $15,000.00
Design and Specifications of the 1895 Nickel
The 1895 Liberty Head (V) Nickel was part of a series that began in 1883 and continued until 1912. This coin design replaced the Shield nickel and was notable for its classical representation of Liberty on the obverse. The year 1895 was a relatively typical year for nickel production, with coins minted only at the Philadelphia facility.
| Weight | 5.0 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 21.2 mm |
| Mint Marks | Philadelphia (no mint mark) |
| Composition | 75% copper, 25% nickel |
| Obverse Design | Liberty Head (V Nickel), designed by Charles E. Barber |
| Reverse Design | Wreath surrounding the denomination, designed by Charles E. Barber |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
The condition of an 1895 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 above are quite rare and command substantial premiums.
Collectors particularly value examples with strong, full strikes, especially on Liberty’s hair details and the wreath on the reverse. Luster quality is crucial, with coins exhibiting full, satiny luster being highly desirable. The presence of any original mint bloom can greatly enhance the coin’s appeal and value.
Mintage: 24,021,218
Rarity Scale: Common
Circulation Status: Widely Circulated
Preservation Rarity: Scarce in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant for this year
Market Demand: Moderate, with higher demand for well-preserved specimens
Toning can play a significant role in the desirability of 1895 Liberty Head Nickels. Nickel coins typically tone in subtle hues, and specimens with attractive, even toning can command premiums. However, unattractive or spotty toning can detract from the coin’s value.
While no major varieties or errors are known for the 1895 issue, coins with exceptional eye appeal, free from notable marks or blemishes, are always in high demand. The presence of any die polish lines or clash marks, while not rare, can be of interest to specialized collectors.
