United States Three Cent Coin, 1865
Add to SetSummary
Congress authorized a copper and nickel three-cent coin in 1865. During the Civil War, many Americans had hoarded silver three-cent pieces and avoided using fractional currency, which tended to deteriorate because of its poor paper quality. Lawmakers hoped the new three-cent piece would increase coin circulation. Millions were made until it was discontinued in 1889.
Congress authorized a copper and nickel three-cent coin in 1865. During the Civil War, many Americans had hoarded silver three-cent pieces and avoided using fractional currency, which tended to deteriorate because of its poor paper quality. Lawmakers hoped the new three-cent piece would increase coin circulation. Millions were made until it was discontinued in 1889.
Artifact
Three-cent piece
Date Made
1865
Location
Not on exhibit to the public.
Object ID
2002.0.25.121
Credit
From the Collections of The Henry Ford.
Material
Nickel (Metal)
Dimensions
Diameter: .75 in
Inscriptions
on front: UNITED STATES OF AMERICA /1865 on back: III
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