Twenty Cent Coin Values
How Much 20 Cent Coins are Worth: 20 Cent Coin & Coin Price Chart
Year | Mint | Variety | Designation | VG-8 | F-12 | VF-20 | EF-40 | AU-50 | U-60 | MS-63 | MS-64 | MS-65 | MS-66 | MS-67 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1800 | P | Plain 4- Stemless Wreath | Red-brown | 200 | 300 | 400 | 500 | 600 | 700 | 800 | 900 | 1000 | 1200 | 1100 |
| Year | Mint | Variety | Designation | VG-8 | F-12 | VF-20 | EF-40 | AU-50 | MS-60 | MS-63 | MS-64 | MS-65 | MS-66 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1875 | (None) Phil | -- | -- | $235 | $274 | $320 | $450 | $612 | $1,063 | $1,695 | $2,435 | $5,200 | $21,300 |
| 1875 | CC | -- | -- | $302 | $437 | $500 | $910 | $1,184 | $2,310 | $3,970 | $6,575 | $18,600 | $53,000 |
| 1875 | S | -- | -- | $175 | $195 | $280 | $330 | $378 | $999 | $1,250 | $2,639 | $3,140 | $5,065 |
| 1876 | (None) Phila | -- | -- | $367 | $455 | $544 | $700 | $844 | $1,448 | $2,615 | $3,135 | $4,190 | $16,050 |
| 1876 | CC | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | $154,000 | $181,500 | $305,750 | $426,000 | $582,250 | $817,000 | $1,165,000 |
Overview
The 20-cent coin, minted from 1875 to 1878, is one of the shortest-lived and most intriguing denominations in U.S. coinage history. Designed by William Barber, the obverse features a left-facing depiction of Liberty seated on a rock, holding a shield and a Liberty cap. At the same time, the reverse showcases an eagle with outstretched wings, clutching arrows and an olive branch. Collectors highly value 20-cent coins for their unique denomination, limited mintage, and historical significance, making them a fascinating addition to any numismatic collection.
History of the 20-cent coin
The 20-cent coin was introduced in 1875 to respond to the coin shortage in the Western United States, where smaller denominations were scarce. The coin was intended to facilitate small transactions, particularly in Nevada and other western mining regions, where silver dollars and fractional currency were less practical.
However, the coin’s design closely resembled the Seated Liberty Quarter, causing confusion among the public due to its similar size and appearance. This confusion and limited practical need led to the coin’s early discontinuation.
Key milestones in the series include:
- 1875-1876 Business Strikes – Regular production coins were minted in Philadelphia, Carson City, and San Francisco, with Carson City issues being the most desirable.
- 1877-1878 Proof-Only Issues – No circulation strikes were produced in these years, and only 350 proof coins were minted each year at the Philadelphia Mint.
By 1878, the series was officially discontinued, and most remaining coins were melted down, adding to their scarcity today.
Collecting 20-cent coins
Collectors seek 20-cent coins for their unique status as a short-lived denomination and their scarcity in high grades. Many examples circulated briefly before being withdrawn, making well-preserved coins especially valuable.
Notable key dates and varieties include:
- 1875-CC – A key date with a relatively low mintage of 133,290 coins, making it the most sought-after business strike.
- 1876-CC – Only 10,000 coins were struck, and most were later melted, creating a significant rarity.
- 1877 Proof – A proof-only issue, with only 350 coins minted, highly desirable among advanced collectors.
- 1878 Proof – Similar to the 1877 issue, with an extremely limited mintage of 350 proofs.
Additionally, collectors seek well-struck examples with minimal wear, as many circulated briefly and often show signs of handling.
Tips for Collectors
- Where to Find Them: 20-cent coins are best found at coin shows, auctions, and from specialized numismatic dealers.
- Key Details to Watch For: Look for sharp Liberty details, strong eagle feathers on the reverse, and minimal surface marks.
- Proper Storage: Store high-grade 20-cent coins in airtight holders or certified slabs to maintain their condition and prevent oxidation.
Most Valuable Coin
The 1876-CC 20-cent coin is one of the rarest and most valuable regular-issue U.S. coins, as most of the original mintage was melted down. Additionally, the 1877 and 1878 Proof-Only issues are highly sought after due to their extremely limited mintages.
Investment Potential
The 20-cent coin remains a strong investment option, particularly for low-mintage issues, proof-only years, and high-grade certified examples. Coins such as 1875-CC, 1876-CC, and the 1877 and 1878 proofs continue to appreciate in value due to their historical significance and collector demand.
Key Dates and Varieties
Collectors and investors often seek the following key dates and varieties:
- 1875-CC – A highly collectible coin with a low mintage.
- 1876-CC – An extremely rare issue, with most coins melted down.
- 1877 Proof – A proof-only issue with just 350 coins minted.
- 1878 Proof – Similar rarity to the 1877 issue, 350 coins were also minted.
Notable Errors
- Overdates and Repunched Mintmarks – Some coins exhibit visible punching of the date or mintmark.
- Die Clashes – Some examples show the reverse design elements faintly on the obverse due to die clashes.
- Planchet Flaws – Minor imperfections from the coin’s production process add interest to certain varieties.
Design Features
The 20-cent coin, designed by William Barber, features:
- Obverse: A left-facing Liberty seated on a rock, holding a shield and a Liberty cap, similar in style to the Seated Liberty Quarter.
- Reverse: An eagle with outstretched wings clutching arrows and an olive branch, reflecting classic U.S. heraldic imagery.
Key design modifications include:
- Proof-Only Issues (1877-1878): Struck with extra care for collectors, resulting in highly detailed coins.
- Carson City Issues (1875-1876): Known for their historical connection to the Western United States and their rarity.
Conclusion
The 20-cent coin is a unique and collectible U.S. coin, offering numismatists a mix of historical intrigue, short-lived production, and substantial investment potential. Whether for historical appreciation, investment, or set-building, this series remains a fascinating piece of U.S. coin history. Understanding its rarities, design nuances, and market trends helps collectors make informed decisions when acquiring 20-cent coins.
