The copper-nickel 3-cent coin, struck from 1865 to 1889, is among the more easily-forgotten U.S. issues. From a market prospective, the series is rarely hot, and examples don’t often generate record prices or headlines when offered for sale.

The coins are generally widely available in all conditions.

Three primary classes buy these coins: noncollectors who want one as a novelty, collectors who want one as a type coin and collectors who focus on the series.

Low-grade circulated examples, even those with problems, are always in demand because the denomination is generally unfamiliar. Simply put, most noncollectors are surprised to learn that a 3-cent coin was ever struck, along with 2-cent pieces, and many are happy to accept a 3-cent coin in any condition as a novelty.

The demand for low-grade copper-nickel 3-cent coins has resulted in steady increases in prices over the years.

For many active collectors, having a single attractive and problem-free example of the type is sufficient to meet their interests. Collector demand means prices for Fine through About Uncirculated examples have held steady.

Those who desire a Mint State or Proof example find plenty of examples to choose from, as many were saved.

Type issues from 1865 to 1870 are especially common, with high mintages and survival rates. Issues from 1871 to 1876 sell for similar prices, but are somewhat scarcer, offering buyers greater value.

Finally, some collectors specialize in the series, attracted to it by the lack of extremely expensive examples to serve as completion barriers.

The key for the series is the Proof-only 1877 coin, with a mintage of 510 pieces. A Proof 65 cameo example sold at a January 2010 auction for $3,105. The Proof 1878 3-cent coin is next in line with just 2,350 pieces.

Circulated business strike examples from 1883 to 1887 are among the toughest coins to find in the series, although their Proof counterparts can be located without much trouble. Mint State 65 and MS-66 examples have recently shown price increases.