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.
