The value of an 1868 3 cent coin can vary significantly depending on whether it’s a nickel or a silver issue, and more importantly, its condition (grade).
- Circulated Condition: An 1868 3 Cent Nickel in circulated condition (such as Good or Very Good) can be worth between $15 and $110.
- Uncirculated Condition: In pristine, uncirculated condition, the same coin can be worth considerably more, potentially reaching up to $7000.
- Factors Affecting Value: Condition is the primary factor affecting the value of these coins, with better-preserved examples commanding higher prices. The mintage for this coin was 3,252,000.
- Circulated Condition: A circulated 1868 3 Cent Silver coin (Trime) is considered quite rare due to a low mintage of 3,500 for regular strikes. Consequently, even in lower grades like Good or Very Good, it can be worth between $650 and $4700.
- Uncirculated Condition: In pristine, uncirculated condition, an 1868 3 Cent Silver coin can fetch values as high as $52,500.
- Factors Affecting Value: The extremely low mintage for the regular strike, along with the condition, are key drivers of its high value.
Important Notes:
- Grading is crucial: Professional grading by services like PCGS or NGC can significantly impact the value and marketability of your coin.
- Proof Coins: Both the 1868 3 Cent Nickel and 3 Cent Silver were also produced as proof coins, which are generally more valuable due to their limited mintage and higher quality finish. Only 600 proof 3 Cent Nickels were minted in 1868.
- Market fluctuations: Coin values are subject to market demand and other factors, so prices can change over time.
How much is my 3 cent coin worth?
3-Cent coin values can start at $20 and go up quickly from there depending on mint year, condition and other factors.
How much is a 1868 nickel worth?
1868 Shield Nickel Value
According to the NGC Price Guide, as of August 2025, a Shield Nickel from 1868 in circulated condition is worth between $25 and $185. However, on the open market 1868 Nickels in pristine, uncirculated condition sell for as much as $9500.
Are 3 cent coins rare?
From my experience, Less than 5 million Type 2 three-cent pieces were made, and all were manufactured in Philadelphia. The rarest of the five dates is the low mintage 1855. Although some collectors assemble complete sets of the series, most of the demand for Type 2s, as with the earlier and later versions, comes from type collectors.