3389

1871 Nickel 3C NGC PF67

Currency:USD Category:Coins & Paper Money / US Coins Start Price:600.00 USD Estimated At:1,200.00 - 1,700.00 USD
1871 Nickel 3C NGC PF67
Nickel-bright patina twinkles over devices on both sides while below, the sleek, glassy-smooth field seems to come alive on this magnificent superb Proof. One of only a very small number of Proof 67 survivors from the mintage.

How the 3¢ coin came about is a unique tale. The 3¢ denomination might seem curious today, but at the time there were millions of unpopular fractional currency bills in circulation, the lowest denomination was the 3¢ note. These notes were dirty, tattered and disabused by nearly everyone. Seizing upon opportunity, Joseph Wharton, who had nickel mining interests, cajoled his congressional friends into proposing a 3¢ nickel coin to replace the detested fractional currency notes. The ruse was these coins would be convenient for purchasing stamps, which were 3¢ each at the time. The dislike of fractional currency notes was so universal (or maybe the bribes given were too generous to refuse), that any solution to replace them was welcomed by the congressional committee. The proposed bill was passed the same day it was introduced to Congress, March 3, 1865. (#3767)