1855-P (Philadelphia) Silver Three Cents (Type 1)

Coin / United States of America / 1855 / Philadelphia / Silver Three Cents (Type 1) / 3¢ (Three Cents)

The coin in question is a 1855 proof Silver Three Cents (Type 1) minted in Philadelphia, denoted by the 'P' mint mark. This coin is part of the United States coinage series and is categorized under the denomination of 3¢ (Three Cents). With a diameter of 14 mm and a weight of 0.75 grams, this coin is composed of silver and exhibits distinctive characteristics typical of the Type 1 design, which features a shield and a wreath on the obverse and the denomination and the year on the reverse. This particular coin is significant not only due to its age but also because it is classified as a proof, which indicates a specialized production process intended for collectors. The mintage for this coin is noted as '0', suggesting that it was either not officially released or exceptionally rare. As a silver coin, it holds intrinsic value based on its metal content, but its rarity, as well as its historical context within United States numismatics, plays a critical role in determining its collector value. This coin represents a fascinating piece of American currency history from the mid-19th century and is a treasured item for collectors interested in unique and scarce defensive formats of U.S. coinage.