Numismatic

1867 3 Cent Nickel VF

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During the post-Civil War era, the United States Mint produced a unique denomination that captured the changing needs of American commerce: the three-cent piece. This 1867 issue, struck in a durable base metal alloy at the Philadelphia Mint, survives today in Very Fine condition, showing the clear details of a design that circulated heavily during a transitional period in the nation's history. As a sovereign coin, its value was fully backed by the United States government. The obverse of the coin showcases a left-facing portrait of Lady Liberty. Designed by James Longacre, she wears a classic coronet inscribed with the word LIBERTY, her hair styled in elegant waves. Encircling her portrait is the legend UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, with the date 1867 positioned directly below the bust. On the reverse, the coin features a minimalist yet striking layout. The denomination is represented by the Roman numeral III, which is nestled inside a stylized wreath. This simple combination of classical imagery and bold numbering made the coin easily identifiable in daily transactions and remains a fascinating study for those exploring early American coinage.