(1865-1889) 3 Cent Nickel Mint Error NGC AU58. Here is an excellent example of an off-center undated three-cent nickel. The coin is near-Uncirculated with 80% of the design showing. The strike is above average with the hair and other portrait details strong. However, as is often seen on this issue, the vertical lines in the Roman numeral III show some weakness. The dentils that are visible are strong on both sides. The surfaces are original and clean for the grade with no notable abrasion marks or other distractions.
 
An off-center coin is made by a striking error. During the striking process, the planchet fails to seat properly in the collar and is not correctly aligned between the dies. Off-center coins are described by the percentage of the design that is missing and the direction according to its clock position. The present coin is 20% off center at 3:00.
 
James B. Longacre designed the three-cent nickel. It was issued from 1865 to 1889. The obverse shows a classic profile of Liberty facing left. She has an elaborate hair arrangement with curls flowing down her neck. She also wears a LIBERTY inscribed coronet. The date is below, and she is surrounded with the inscription UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. The reverse shows an open olive branch wreath that encloses a Roman numeral III for the denomination.
 
In 1844 Longacre was appointed Mint Engraver through the influence of Senator John C. Calhoun of South Carolina. After overcoming opposition by the Chief Coiner, Franklin Peale, who was fearful that the new Engraver would interfere with his illegal medal manufacturing business using the Mint facilities, Longacre did well. He was responsible for creating many new designs including the Indian Head cent, the two-cent piece, the Shield nickel, the Liberty Head gold dollar, the Indian Princess gold dollar, the three-dollar gold piece, and the Liberty Head double eagle.