Coin Terminology and Glossary
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Three Cent Piece
- Explanation: Common term used for the US coin with the value of three cents. Two different metals were used for these coins back in the 1800's. Prior to 1865 the US made three cent pieces out of an alloy of mostly silver. Hence the name 'three cent silver'. The public complained because the 3 cent silvers were small and thin. By 1865 the US government changed the composition and design of the three cent coins. Three cent nickels were made of 75% copper and 25% nickel from 1865 to 1889. From the looks of the coin you would think it was made out of pure nickel. They were larger and thicker than the three cent silvers. Hence the name 'three cent nickel'.
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