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1883 Proof

Two & Three Cents · Three-Cent Nickels · 1865–1889
Key date Proof
Weight1.94 g
Diameter17.9 mm
MintPhiladelphia
StrikeProof
Mintage 6,609
EdgePlain
Alignment↑↓ Coin
Composition75% Copper, 25% Nickel
DesignerJames B. Longacre
Collector's Key IDCK-983

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About this coinHistory

Proof production exploded in 1883 to approximately 6,609 coins, one of the highest proof figures in the entire series. The proof mintage was more than 1,650 times the 4,000-coin circulation strike output, an extraordinary ratio that speaks to how thoroughly the denomination had collapsed as a commercial issue. The 1883 proof is one of the more available proofs in the series and serves as the practical representation of the date for most collectors. The Brooklyn Bridge opened that year, and the first Liberty Head nickels went into production.

Price guideReference

Reference data only — not an appraisal.

GradeDescriptionLowHigh
PR-63 Proof (PR)
Frequently Asked QuestionsFAQ
How many 1883 Proof Three-Cent Nickels were minted?
6,609 were struck.
What is a 1883 Proof Three-Cent Nickel made of?
75% Copper, 25% Nickel, weighing 1.94 g.
What is the melt value of a 1883 Proof Three-Cent Nickel?
Its melt value is its metal content multiplied by the current spot price. See our melt calculator on the metals pages for a live figure.
Is the 1883 Proof Three-Cent Nickel a key date?
Yes — the 1883 Proof Three-Cent Nickel is considered a key date in the Three-Cent Nickels series and commands a strong premium.