1875 3CN Three Cent Nickel PCGS PR65CAM

Key Features:

• Obverse:
  • The obverse side displays a portrait of Liberty facing left, wearing a coronet inscribed with “LIBERTY”. This classic design by Chief Engraver James B. Longacre is refined and elegant, representing Liberty in a classical style.
  • The words “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” encircle Liberty’s portrait, with the date “1875” positioned below her.
• Reverse:
  • The reverse side features the Roman numeral “III” (representing the denomination) within a laurel wreath, symbolizing peace and unity.
• Composition: 75% copper, 25% nickel.
• Weight: 1.94 grams.
• Diameter: 17.9 mm.

Grade:

• PCGS PR65CAM (Proof 65 Cameo):
  • The PR65 grade signifies that this coin is in Gem Proof condition, with no major imperfections, and exhibits only minor surface marks visible under magnification. Cameo (CAM) designation indicates that the coin has strong contrast between the frosted, raised elements and the mirrored fields, creating a striking cameo effect. This feature is particularly desirable for Proof coins, as it enhances the visual appeal of the design.

Historical Context:

• Three-Cent Nickel Coinage:
  • Introduced during the Civil War, the 3-Cent Nickel was initially created to alleviate coin shortages and provide a smaller denomination for everyday transactions. By 1875, the 3-Cent Nickel was primarily produced in Proof versions, as demand for the denomination decreased, with fewer coins needed for circulation.
• Shift in Usage:
  • By the late 1870s, the necessity of 3-Cent Nickels began to wane due to the growing prevalence of small-denomination silver coins. Thus, the 3-Cent Nickel series is unique in that later years saw much lower mintages and more emphasis on Proof strikes, catering primarily to collectors rather than general circulation.

Mintage & Rarity:

• Limited Mintage:
  • The 1875 3-Cent Nickel had a limited Proof mintage of only 700 coins, making it a relatively scarce issue, especially in higher grades with Cameo contrast. This limited production was a response to declining demand for the denomination and gives this coin added collector appeal.
• Rarity in High Grades:
  • High-grade Cameo Proof examples like this PR65CAM are particularly rare, as many Proof coins from this era did not display strong cameo contrast. Coins with preserved cameo effects are highly prized by collectors.

Market Appeal:

• Collector Demand:
  • Collectors who focus on 19th-century Proof coinage, unique denominations, or cameo finishes find this coin especially desirable. The 3-Cent Nickel series is popular for its unusual denomination and historical context, and high-grade Cameo examples are highly collectible.
• Investment Potential:
  • With its limited mintage and Gem Cameo Proof grade, this 1875 3-Cent Nickel has solid potential to retain or increase its value over time. Coins with cameo contrast, especially from this period, are sought after in the numismatic market, making this coin a strong candidate for both collectors and investors.

Conclusion:

The 1875 3-Cent Nickel PCGS PR65CAM is an exceptional coin that combines historical significance, rarity, and visual appeal. Its limited mintage, Cameo finish, and high grade make it a valuable addition for collectors of U.S. coinage and those who appreciate rare Proof coins with unique design elements.

G-4 Good—Date and legends complete though worn. III smooth.
VG-8 Very Good—III half worn. Rims complete.
VF-20 Very Fine—Three-quarters of hair details visible.
EF-40 Extremely Fine—Slight, even wear.
AU-50 About Uncirculated—Slight wear on hair curls, above forehead, and on wreath and numeral
III.
MS-60 Uncirculated—No trace of wear. Light blemishes.
MS-63 Choice Uncirculated—Some distracting contact marks or blemishes in prime focal areas.
Some impairment of luster possible.