Nickels have been a staple of American currency since 1866, and over the years, some have gained significant value due to their rarity, historical significance, and unique features.
Here’s a look at the top 10 most valuable nickels, their characteristics, and why they are prized by collectors.
1. 1913 Liberty Head Nickel
The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel is one of the most famous and valuable nickels in existence, with only five known specimens. These coins were not officially authorized by the U.S. Mint, making them exceedingly rare. One of these coins sold for $4.56 million, highlighting its desirability and historic intrigue.
2. 1918/7-D Buffalo Nickel
The 1918/7-D Buffalo Nickel is a rare error coin where the date was struck over the previous year’s date, making it a doubled die variety. This coin is highly sought after by collectors and has fetched prices up to $350,750 at auction.
3. 1926-S Buffalo Nickel
The 1926-S Buffalo Nickel is notable for its low mintage, with only 970,000 coins produced. Its scarcity, especially in higher grades, has made it one of the most valuable Buffalo Nickels, with values reaching $322,000.
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4. 1916 Buffalo Nickel Doubled Die Obverse
This coin features a doubled die error on the obverse, which makes it extremely rare and valuable. It has been sold for as much as $281,750, reflecting its high demand among collectors who seek error coins.
5. 1880 Shield Nickel
The 1880 Shield Nickel is rare due to its low mintage of only 16,000 coins. Its historical significance as one of the early Shield Nickels, combined with its rarity, allows it to command prices up to $198,995.
6. 1913-D Buffalo Nickel Type 2
This coin is part of the first year of the Buffalo Nickel series, making it historically important. The Type 2 designation refers to a slight design change in the mound on which the buffalo stands. It is valued at approximately $143,750.
7. 1917-S Buffalo Nickel
The 1917-S Buffalo Nickel is valued for its low mintage and the difficulty of finding well-preserved examples. This coin has reached values of $138,000, making it a key date for Buffalo Nickel collectors.
8. 1920-D Buffalo Nickel
This Buffalo Nickel is valued due to its rarity and the challenge of finding it in high grades. Its value has been recorded at $138,000, demonstrating its appeal to collectors.
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9. 1918-S Buffalo Nickel
The 1918-S Buffalo Nickel is another key date in the series, particularly because of its low production numbers and high collector demand. It has achieved values up to $125,350 at auction.
10. 1927-S Buffalo Nickel
This coin is part of the later Buffalo Nickel series and is valued for its rarity and condition. It has been sold for as much as $125,350, making it a valuable addition to any collection.
Factors Influencing Nickel Value
Several factors influence the value of these nickels, including:
- Mintage and Rarity: Coins with lower production numbers are generally more valuable.
- Condition and Grade: The condition of a coin, assessed by professional grading services, significantly affects its value. Higher grades command higher prices.
- Historical Significance: Coins with historical importance or unique stories tend to attract more interest from collectors.
- Errors and Varieties: Nickels with mint errors, such as doubled dies or overdates, are highly sought after and often fetch higher prices.
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Conclusion
Collecting nickels can be a rewarding hobby, both financially and historically. Whether you are a seasoned numismatist or a beginner, understanding the factors that contribute to a coin’s value can enhance your appreciation for these pieces of American history. Keep an eye out for these top 10 valuable nickels, as they represent some of the most prized finds in coin collecting.