1851 Silver Three-Cent Piece. MS-66 (PCGS). CAC.
Authorized by the Act of March 3, 1851, the silver three-cent piece was initially produced in an alloy of 75% silver, 25% copper. The reduced silver composition of these coins made them an instant success in commercial channels, where replacements were eagerly sought for old tenor half dimes, dimes, quarters and half dollars struck in standard silver (90% silver, 10% copper) that were being withdrawn from circulation due to rising silver prices. While the usefulness of this denomination would wane with the onset of the Civil War, with corresponding reductions in the number of circulation strikes produced, the Philadelphia Mint achieved large mintages for the silver three-cent piece in most years from 1851 through 1858. The first year 1851 has a mintage of 5,447,400 pieces, and it is among the more plentiful Type I trimes in terms of total number of coins extant. On the other hand, not many survivors are as well preserved and aesthetically pleasing as the present example. A minimally toned, softly frosted Gem that represents a significant find for the high quality type collector.
PCGS# 3664. NGC ID: 22YX.
From our sale of the Knohl Collection, August 2024 Global Showcase Auction, lot 4486.

Estimate: $1300