Today I was on eBay looking at three cent pieces. I was wondering why people are paying $39 for slick 1851 three cent pieces. Plus there was 5,447,400 of them made. Besides why in the world would someone pay that much money when they could get a VF 25 1859 three cent piece NGC graded for $40 with good eye appeal. Plus there were only 364,200 made.
I guess there is a few unique things about them... well the only thing I can think of is the 1851-1853s were the only U.S. coin ever struck in a 75% silver composition. Also, does it have a O mintmark?
I think you answered your own question with one word - eBay. Over paying is a routine occurance on eBay. Just my opinion.
It also depends on the type of 1851, there are 3 patterns to the 1851 and one is a lot more expensive. Link?
