Numismatic

1865 3 Cent Nickel VF

---

The year 1865 marked the debut of a fascinating and unusual denomination in United States coinage: the three-cent nickel. Created to help alleviate the severe coin shortage of the mid nineteenth century, this small coin was struck from a copper-nickel alloy, offering a durable alternative to the silver pieces of the era. Designed by James Longacre, the obverse of the coin features a left-facing portrait of Lady Liberty. She wears a classic coronet, her hair styled in elegant waves. Encircling her image is the bold inscription UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, with the date 1865 positioned clearly at the bottom of the design. The reverse side of this coin is deceptively simple yet elegant. It displays the denomination represented by the Roman numeral III, which is framed by a decorative wreath. This particular specimen survives in Very Fine condition, showing a pleasing level of detail that allows observers to appreciate the artistry of a bygone era in American minting.