Olevian Numismatic Rarities
1858 Silver Three Cent Piece PCGS Certified MS62
Product Description
The three-cent coin was proposed in 1851 in response to the growing need for a small-denomination, easy-to handle coin. Postage stamp rates had recently decreased from 5 cents to 3 cents, making a 3-cent coin seem like a practical solution. Initially composed of 75% silver and 25% copper, these coins were the lightest-weight coins ever minted by the United States and were commonly referred to as “fish scales.” The silver content was later increased to 90%, with yet a further reduction in the coin’s already diminutive size.
Designed by Chief Engraver James B. Longacre, the obverse of the coin features a shield on a 6-pointed star and the reverse shows an ornamental C surrounding the roman numeral III, for 3-cents. Widespread hoarding of silver coins during the Civil War forced the Mint to issue a new 3-cent piece made of nickel in 1865. This was produced simultaneously with the silver 3-cent piece, until the latter was discontinued in 1873. By 1883, the postage stamp rates had fallen to only 2 cents, making the 3-cent coin less popular. The denomination was ultimately discontinued entirely in 1889, rending these coins interesting but obsolete relics of American history.
Offered here is an affordable mint-state example of a silver 3-cent piece minted in 1858. You will receive the unique coin shown in the photos housed in a plush-lined box with a certificate of authenticity.
Product Details
- Measurements
4.5"L x 4.5"W x 1.5"H
- OriginUnited States
— Type: Three Cent Silver (1851-1873)
— Designer: James Barton Longacre
— Weight: 0.75 grams
— Diameter: 14.3 mm
— Composition: 0.900 silver, 0.100 copper
— Obverse Design: 6-pointed star with shield
— Obverse Inscription: UNITED STATES OF AMERICA / DATE
— Reverse Design: Ornamental letter “C” and Roman numeral III, the whole encircled by thirteen stars
— Reverse Inscription: III
— Ships In Plush Lined Box With A Certificate Of Authenticity
The coin offered for sale in this listing has been certified by one or more of these leading services: Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS), Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC), or Certified Acceptance
Shipping Information
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Shipping AvailabilityCanada, United States
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Shipping PolicyDiscounted Shipping
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Discounted Shipping$15.00 first item / $15.00 each additional
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Ship In3-4 weeks ⓘ
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Return PolicyFinal sale, not eligible for return or cancellation
Size Chart
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