The five-cent coin in your pocket could potentially be worth more than you know. Although most nickels are worth just their face value, some rare types have become numismatic legends and command prices at auction in the six- and seven-figure range.
Errors, low mintage, or historical significance allow these nickels to go from everyday change to collector’s treasures. Here are five of the most valuable nickels in American history.
1913 Liberty Head
The 1913 Liberty Head nickel is the undisputed king of rare nickels. This coin was never meant to exist, as the Liberty Head design was entirely replaced with the Buffalo nickel in 1913. Yet five specimens were somehow struck, most likely by a mint employee, and made their way into the hands of collectors.
Key Facts:
- Total Known: 5
- Most Notable Sale: $4.56 million (2018)
Controversial origin and extreme rarity make it the most-valued nickel ever. These coins have even made it to pop culture, being featured in an episode of Hawaii Five-O. With these findings, experts also weigh that ought one to sell today, it might get more considering, upwards of $5 million.
1918/7-D Buffalo
This error overdate was created when a 1918 date was mistakenly repunched into a 1917 die at the Denver Mint. The remains of the “7” can be seen underneath the “8,” making it one of the rarest of Buffalo nickels.
Key Facts:
- Estimated Surviving Coins: Fewer than 100
- Notable Sale: $350,750 (2006)
Worn examples still fetch between $25,000 and $75,000, while uncirculated specimens can go for over $500,000. This wartime minting mistake is a prized find for collectors.
1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo
One of the most prominent mint errors, the 1937-D Buffalo nickel appears to have three legs due to excessive die polishing. The missing leg is immediately recognizable, establishing it as one of the most well-known mint errors.
Key Facts:
- Estimated Surviving Coins: 1,000-2,000
- Notable Sale: $161,000 (2017, MS-67)While
Some wear examples start off around $500; some high-grade specimens can get over $100,000. This error coin is one of the most attractive rarities for U.S. coin collectors.
1880 Shield
Having been minted only in 16000 numbers, the 1880 shield nickel is the least minted circulation nickel produced in history. At that time, demand for nickels had disappeared, preventing enough energy production on it.
Key Facts:
- Mintage Total: 16,000
- Notable Sale: $108,000 (2019, MS-66+)
Even well-worn examples sell for $2,000 or more, while uncirculated specimens can reach up to $75,000. That rarity is not an error-it merely makes for a date in U.S. coinage that is not normally seen.
Jefferson of 1943
This is a real modern rarity, in fact, this nickel is post-World War II. The mintage of this coin amounts to 2.63 million and even at the early stage, it was realized by collectors that this was scarce. They all hoarded uncirculated samples.
Post not found.
Key Facts:
- Total Mintage: 2.63 million
- Notable Sale: $15,275 (2018, MS-67+ Full Steps)
Circulated versions are worth $15-$30, while high-grade examples with Full Steps on Monticello can fetch $500-$5,000 or more. This coin remains an accessible key date for collectors.
These five nickels prove that even coins that look very common can be worth a lot of money. Whether it is an overdate, an error, or a low-mintage issue, there are still numismatic treasures waiting to be observed.
FAQS:
How many of the 1913 Liberty Head nickels have survived?
Today, only five are known to exist.
What is the most expensive nickel ever sold?
The 1913 Liberty Head nickel was sold for $4.56 million in 2018.
How do I know if I have a 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo?
Check for a missing front leg on the buffalo; it should be absent.
What makes the 1950-D Jefferson nickel valuable?
Low mintage, many of which were saved by collectors.
Are nickels that have worth still in circulation?
It is rare, but older and error coins can sometimes be found in rolls or estate collections.