CoinWeek Notes …..
1863 Three-Cent Silver Proof Coin – A Civil War-Era Rarity
The 1863 Three-Cent Silver Proof stands as one of the most sought-after minor silver coins in American numismatics. Struck at the Philadelphia Mint, only 460 proof specimens were minted during a three-day window, making this issue exceptionally scarce. In an era marked by economic turmoil and Civil War, the production of these coins represented both a practical monetary effort and a symbolic gesture of unity.
By 1863, silver coins had mostly vanished from everyday commerce due to hoarding and inflation. As a result, the Mint produced only proof versions of the three-cent silver piece, intended for collectors and presentation. The final batch of 200 coins left the coining presses in early June, just weeks before the pivotal Battle of Gettysburg reshaped the Civil War’s trajectory.
Designed by James B. Longacre, the coin features a six-pointed star on the obverse, with the Union shield at its center. The reverse displays the Roman numeral “III” surrounded by a laurel wreath.
Struck in 90% silver, each proof boasts razor-sharp details, mirror-like surfaces, and frosted devices when preserved in high grade.
Surviving examples today exist in far fewer numbers due to handling, melting, and attrition over time. High-grade specimens, especially those graded PR66 or higher by PCGS or NGC, command premium prices at auction. Collectors value this issue for its ultra-low mintage, Civil War connection, and elegant design.
The 1863 Three-Cent Silver Proof is not just a coin, it is a tangible piece of American history. Owning one links the collector directly to a moment when the nation stood divided but the Mint continued to operate as a symbol of enduring federal authority.
| Coinage of 1863 Proof Three-Cent Silver Coins | |||
| March 5, 1863 | 160 struck | March 6, 1863 | 160 struck |
| May 26, 1863 | 200 struck | Total: 460 Proof coins | |
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Market Data and Noteworthy Specimens
Top Population: PCGS PR67+CAM (2, 5/2025). NGC PF67+UC (1, 5/2025). CAC PR67+CAM (0:1 stickered:graded, 5/2025).
- PCGS PR68CAM #25253615: Stack’s Bowers, November 2014, Lot 10129; “The Warren Collection,” Heritage Auctions, May 5, 2022, Lot 3857 – $40,800.
- NGC PF-67CAM CMQ #6815464-007: Stack’s Bowers, March 26, 2024, Lot 4038 – View. Rainbow toning on the obverse, bleeding over to the periphery on the reverse.
- PCGS PR66+ CAC #25213504: Legend Rare Coin Auctions, December 16, 2021, Lot 38 – Passed.
- PCGS PR66 #3125536: Stack’s Bowers, August 18, 2023, Lot 6147 – View. Dark red, green, and turquoise toning on the obverse; turquoise toning on the reverse.
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1863 Three-Cent Silver Proof Coin Specifications
| Country: | United States of America |
| Year Of Issue: | 1863 |
| Denomination: | One Cent (USD) |
| Mint Mark: | None (Philadelphia) |
| Mintage: | 460 |
| Alloy: | .900 Silver, .100 Copper |
| Weight: | 0.75 g |
| Diameter: | 14.00 mm |
| Edge: | Plain |
| OBV Designer: | James Barton Longacre |
| REV Designer: | James Barton Longacre |
| Quality: | Proof |
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Written by By Charles Morgan and Hubert Walker for CoinWeek
very interesting article.
First off, I have never heard of this coin. Then again one early Morgan is my oldest coin. I sure appreciate all the eye opening articles y’all provided over the years.
Very interesting to read the info about the 3 cent coins and their purpose!
I have many 3 cent coins no proofs. learned alot thanks.
The three cent silver coins are fascinating. Would love to get one some day.
Great article on the 1863 Three cent silver proof.