1880 Three Cent Nickel PCGS Certified PR64

Legislation for the three-cent nickel was passed on the morning of March 4th, 1865—  the last day of the 1864-65 congressional session. Abraham Lincoln signed the bill authorizing the new three-cent piece just minutes before being sworn in for his second term as President.

Advocates for a new nickel coin were led by Pennsylvania industrialist Joseph Wharton, who then controlled the U.S. domestic supply of nickel ore. The coin was initially successful in circulation, at a time when a postage stamp cost 3 cents. Demand fell sharply only one year later, with the introduction of the nickel 5-cent piece in 1866. This larger coin was deemed more practical and better suited to the decimal system. Mintage figures of the 3-cent nickel slumped considerably after 1870 and was later produced only in proof versions for collectors, before being discontinued entirely in 1889.

Offered here is a scarce, late-issue proof 1880 Three Cent Nickel. You will receive the unique coin shown in the photos housed in a luxurious matte black wood box lined in velvet with a certificate of authenticity.

The condition of a coin is officially graded on a 70-point scale according to standards set forth by the American Numismatic Association. Grades under 60 represent circulated grades, while grades from 60 through 70 represent uncirculated, or “mint-state” grades. Very few, if any, older coins are known to exist in perfect MS70 grade. The coin offered for sale in this listing has been certified by one or more leading certification services so you can be confident in its authenticity and stated condition.