The coin is an 1865 Three-Cent Nickel, the first year this coin was struck in a copper-nickel alloy. Designed by James B. Longacre, it features Lady Liberty on the obverse and a Roman numeral III within a wreath on the reverse. Composition: 75% copper, 25% nickel. Diameter: 17.9 mm. Weight: 1.94 grams. Minted: 1865-1889. Reason for Issue: To replace the unpopular three-cent fractional currency notes during the Civil War. Replaced by: The five-cent nickel. Mintage: Over 11 million were produced in 1865. Please inspect photos carefully for condition.