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The Three Cent Nickel, also known as the 3c Nickel, holds a significant place in numismatic history, as it represents a brief but fascinating era in American coinage. Minted from 1865 to 1889, these coins were born out of the need for small denomination currency following the Civil War. The 1873 Open 3 variety is particularly notable for its design and historical context.
The design of the 3c Nickel was the work of James B. Longacre, who also designed the famous Indian Head cent. The obverse features a Liberty head facing left, wearing a coronet inscribed with the word "Liberty." Below the head is the date, 1873 in the case of the Open 3 variety. The reverse bears a Roman numeral III encircled by a wreath of agricultural products, including corn, wheat, and cotton. Above the numeral is the motto "United States of America," while below is the denomination "Three Cents."
The 1873 Open 3 variety is distinguished by the shape of the numeral 3 in the date. In this version, the top of the 3 appears open, resembling a backwards letter "C." This variety is considered scarcer than the Closed 3 variety, adding to its appeal among collectors. Despite its relatively low value in numismatic terms, the 3c Nickel holds a special place in the hearts of many collectors due to its historical significance.
When it comes to packaging, the 3c Nickel was typically circulated without any special packaging. Being a low-denomination coin, it was commonly used in everyday transactions and would have been handled frequently. As such, finding a well-preserved example, especially in higher grades, can be a challenge for collectors.
The 1873 Open 3 Three Cent Nickel was produced by the United States Mint, which had facilities in Philadelphia, San Francisco, and Carson City at the time. The Philadelphia Mint, being the main mint facility, produced the majority of these coins. However, mintages for the 1873 Open 3 variety were relatively low compared to other years, adding to its scarcity.
Exact mintage figures for the 1873 Open 3 Three Cent Nickel vary depending on the source, but they are generally low compared to other years of production. The Philadelphia Mint struck the majority of these coins, with smaller numbers minted at the San Francisco Mint. Carson City, known for its production of silver coins, did not strike any 3c Nickels in 1873.
In terms of condition, the VG-F designation indicates that the coin is in Very Good to Fine condition. Coins in this grade typically show moderate to considerable wear but still retain some detail in the design. The lettering and major features should be clear, although some areas may be worn smooth. Despite the wear, coins in this grade are still collectible and offer a tangible connection to the past.
Overall, the 1873 Open 3 Three Cent Nickel is a fascinating piece of American numismatic history. Its modest denomination belies its importance in the context of post-Civil War currency and its role in the development of American coinage. Whether as a standalone piece or as part of a larger collection, the 3c Nickel offers collectors a tangible link to a bygone era.