1872-P (Philadelphia) Nickel Three Cents

Coin / United States of America / 1872 / Philadelphia / Nickel Three Cents / 3¢ (Three Cents)

The coin in question is a 1872 Nickel Three Cents, also known as a "Three Cent Piece," minted in Philadelphia. It features a denomination of 3¢ and is composed of a copper-nickel alloy, which gives it a distinctive appearance. This particular coin measures 17.9 mm in diameter and weighs approximately 1.94 grams. The mint mark "P" indicates that it was struck at the Philadelphia Mint, the primary minting facility in the United States. The mintage for the 1872 Nickel Three Cents stands at an impressive 862,000 pieces, which contributes to its historical significance within the series of three-cent coins that were issued primarily during the late 19th century. The coin is part of the broader category of U.S. coins, and its production type is classified as a "Mint Strike," indicating it was struck directly from the dies under controlled conditions. Collectors often seek out this piece not only for its historical value but also for its role in the transition of U.S. currency during a period of change, as the three-cent piece was introduced as a way to facilitate the growing number of small transactions that emerged with the expanding economy of the time. Given its unique attributes and reasonable mintage, the 1872 Nickel Three Cents is an interesting item for numismatists and a valued piece of American monetary history.