1866 Three-Cent Nickel – Raw – Early U.S. Small Denomination Coin

Description:

Offered here is an 1866 Three-Cent Nickel, a classic example of early post-Civil War small denomination coinage. Struck at the Philadelphia Mint, this piece features full legends, a clear date, and moderate wear consistent with circulation. Composed of 75% copper and 25% nickel, the coin displays attractive pale gray surfaces typical of the issue. A great addition to a U.S. type set or 19th-century coin collection.

Specifications:

• Denomination: Three Cents

• Year of Issue: 1866

• Mint: Philadelphia (no mintmark)

• Designer: James B. Longacre

• Series: Three-Cent Nickel (1865–1889)

• Composition: 75% Copper, 25% Nickel

• Diameter: 17.9 mm

• Weight: 1.94 grams

• Grade: Raw – Circulated

• Holder: Supplied in archival 2x2 flip

Highlights:

• Second year of issue for the Three-Cent Nickel series

• Bold Roman numeral “III” reverse design by James B. Longacre

• Ideal for 19th-century U.S. type sets and small denomination specialists

• Made of nickel alloy — not silver — created for better durability in commerce

• Circulated example with full date and strong legends

• An affordable piece of Reconstruction-era U.S. history

Historical Note:

The Three-Cent Nickel was introduced in 1865, replacing the earlier silver three-cent piece. Designed by James B. Longacre, this version was made of nickel to meet the needs of a post-war economy struggling with hoarding and coin shortages.

The 1866 issue, with a mintage of just over 4.8 million, was used heavily in commerce and is now a popular collectible among enthusiasts of obsolete denominations. This small yet historic coin represents the resilience and evolution of American coinage during a critical era of national recovery.

Looking for other three-cent pieces or obscure 19th-century coinage? Reach out — we specialize in U.S. types you don’t see every day.