1865 3CN NGC MS61

This piece retains full unbroken mint luster, with a satiny surface and crisp detail, particularly on Liberty’s headband and the Roman numeral III on the reverse. As expected for the MS61 grade, there are scattered contact marks and minor abrasions, but no signs of circulation wear. The coin is problem-free, certified Mint State, and a very affordable way to acquire an example from the start of the series.

The 1865 issue saw a substantial mintage (~11 million), but surviving Mint State examples—especially certified—are increasingly popular among type collectors and those building early U.S. nickel sets.

Mint: Philadelphia (No Mintmark)
NGC Certified: MS61
Mintage: 11,382,000
Composition: 75% Copper, 25% Nickel
Diameter: 17.9 mm
Weight: 1.94 grams
Designer: James B. Longacre

A first-year, Mint State example of an underrated U.S. coin series — perfect for type collectors and 19th-century enthusiasts alike.