Despite the fact that there is only one type of Three Cent Nickels and there are no notable rarities in the series, the coinage was all the rage two decades ago. They were easy to acquire and the collections were easy to complete; this was both the blessing and curse of the Three Cent Nickels. While some numismatists enjoyed gathering the small coins with the particularly attractive obverse, they also found the entire process way too easy. The lack of rarity in the collection represented quite a deterrent for some collectors.

Although the popularity of the Three Cent Nickels decreased considerably since the turn of the century, certain coin buyers are actually considering whether the coinage is a good choice to augment their collections. Take note that the only valuable Three Cent Nickels are those with a grading between 55 and 64. Without further ado, let’s summarize the types of nickels that you can consider for your precious collections.

Three Cent Nickels with proofs and business strikes

The coinage released between 1882 and 1887 presents proofs and business strikes and can purchased for around $20. Keep in mind that in general, coins with proofs are more affordable than the ones with business strikes. For instance, a proof 60 to 62 from 1885 can be bought at half the price of an 1885 coinage with business strikes in a 08 grade.

On a side note, at this point there is a consensus in the coin collecting community regarding the clear distinctions between proofs and business strikes for Three Cent Nickels released before the 1900s. Consequentially, you could even consider mixing coins minted before 1900 with both characteristics into your collection. If you take this road, don’t forget that the acquisition of a proof would negate the need to invest in a business strike of the same type, date and mint location.

Gem Three Cent Nickels

Traditionally, coins with a grade over 65 are known as gems. A lesser known fact about Three Cent Nickels is that the 19^th century variants were graded slightly more liberally compared to other coinage minted during the same period. In fact, a trained eye could actually observer significant differences between a Three Cent Nickel with mid 65 grade and one with mid 66 grade.

Therefore, if you want true gem Three Cent Nickels into your collection, then it would be wise to shop around for coins with a grade of at least 66. As far as their price is concerned, they are fairly affordable and with a bit of research you can even find buy them for less than they were sold for in the early 1990s, when Three Cent Nickels were all the hype.

The circulated Three Cent Nickels

In the event you are assembling a Three Cent Nickels collection for your son or daughter, then you can look into the circulated coinage, meaning the currency with a grade below 55. Although they are relatively easy to acquire and affordable, you will be happy to learn that the price of a completed collection in Good condition could be around $1,800.