Price Guide for 1897 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: $8.00 – $660.00Uncirculated: $54.00 – $18,800.00
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eBayCirculated: $6.50 – $410.00Uncirculated: $26.00 – $2,499.99
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $10.00 – $150.00Uncirculated: $175.00 – $15,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $661.00Uncirculated: $2.65 – $6,325.00
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eBayUncirculated: $162.00 – $741.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $250.00 – $11,000.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $374.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $15.00 – $160.00Uncirculated: $225.00 – $2,000.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $223.25 – $23,500.00
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eBayUncirculated: $204.51 – $560.01
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $300.00 – $25,000.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $1,017.50 – $6,168.75
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eBayUncirculated: $667.77
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $1,250.00 – $22,500.00
Design and Specifications of the 1897 Nickel
The 1897 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 the work of Charles E. Barber, the Chief Engraver of the U.S. Mint at the time. The Liberty Head nickel played a significant role in American commerce during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
| 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 Roman numeral V, designed by Charles E. Barber |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
The condition of an 1897 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 grades MS65 and above are particularly valuable due to their rarity.
Collectors prize examples with strong, clear strikes, full luster, and minimal contact marks. The presence of original mint luster is highly desirable and can greatly enhance the coin’s value. Additionally, attractive natural toning can add to the coin’s appeal and potentially increase its worth.
Mintage: 20,428,735
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
Several factors can influence the value of an 1897 Liberty Head Nickel beyond its condition:
1. Strike Quality: Well-struck coins with full details, especially on Liberty’s hair and the wreath on the reverse, are more desirable.
2. Die State: Early die state examples with crisp details can command a premium.
3. Preservation of Design Elements: Coins with well-preserved design elements, particularly the date and LIBERTY on the headband, are more valuable.
4. Historical Significance: As part of the Liberty Head series, this coin holds interest for collectors of late 19th-century American coinage.
5. Overall Eye Appeal: Coins with an attractive overall appearance, free from distracting marks or blemishes, are generally more valuable.
