Collecting rare and valuable nickels is more than a hobby—it’s a way to hold a piece of history in your hands. Some nickels are so rare and iconic that they fetch extraordinary prices at auctions. Here’s a closer look at the top 10 most coveted and valuable nickels, each with its own unique story and appeal.
1. 1913 Liberty Head V Nickel
Just five known examples of the 1913 Liberty Head V Nickel, one of the rarest coins produced. For decades collectors have been enthralled by its mystery, rarity, and historical relevance.
- Value: One sold for $4.56 million in 2018, and its estimated worth continues to climb.
2. 1918/7-D Buffalo Nickel
This amazing overdate coin was produced from over-engraved die bearing “19 1917” with “19 1918.” Hit at the Denver Mint, this mistake makes it quite sought-after among collectors.
- Value: In high grades, it’s one of the most valuable Buffalo Nickels.
3. 1926-S Buffalo Nickel
Among the rarest in the series, the 1926-S Buffalo Nickel only had 970,000 struck. Most traveled much, hence rare high-grade samples are quite rare.
Value: Mint condition well-preserved coins are sought after by collectors at a premium.
4. 1916 Doubled Die Obverse Buffalo Nickel
Especially in the phrase ” LIBERTY” and the Native American’s facial features, this mistake coin shows obvious doubling on the obverse.
- Value: The dual die error increases its value particularly in higher grades.
5. 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel
The 1937-D Buffalo Nickel, one of the most well-known mistake coins, seems to have just three legs because of too aggressive die polishing at the Denver Mint.
- Value: Its unique design flaw makes it a must-have for serious collectors.
6. 1924-S Buffalo Nickel
Not very often struck, the 1924-S Buffalo Nickel had a mintage of just 1.4 million. Bad striking quality and strong circulation make well-preserved specimens somewhat unusual.
- Value: Premiums for high-grade coins are really high.
7. 1885 Liberty Head V Nickel
Among the most demanded dates in the series is this low-mintage Liberty Head V Nickel. There were just 1.47 million made.
Value: Scarcity and historical importance make it highly collectible.
8. 1912-S Liberty Head V Nickel
With approximately 238,000 coins made, the 1912-S Liberty Head V Nickel was the lowest mintage of the series as the first nickel struck San Francisco.
- Value: Its value increases dramatically with higher grades.
9. 1867 Shield Nickel (with Rays)
Designed uniquely for only one year, the 1867 Shield Nickel “with Rays” had Problems with die wear resulted in the ray being eliminated from next designs.
- Value: Its rarity and distinctive design make it a cornerstone of any nickel collection.
10. 1942-D Over Horizontal D Jefferson Nickel
Corrected subsequently, this World War II-era mistake coin shows a horizontally pierced “D” mint mark. This is a great illustration of minting mistakes.
- Value: Collectors prize this error, with high-quality specimens fetching premium prices.
These nickels highlight the creativity and eccentricities of U.S. coin manufacture in addition to allowing collectors to own rare items of history. These top 10 nickels are jewels worth looking for whether your collection is growing or you are buying in rare coins.
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