Collecting rare nickels is more than a hobby—it’s a journey through U.S. history and a chance to uncover treasures with extraordinary value. Some of the most sought-after nickels boast intriguing stories of minting errors, historical significance, and sheer rarity. Here’s a closer look at ten of the most valuable nickels and why collectors cherish them.
1. 1913 Liberty Head V Nickel
One of the rarest coins in existence, only five 1913 Liberty Head V Nickels are known to exist. This coin was never officially authorized for minting, adding mystery to its origin. In 2018, one sold for $4.56 million, cementing its status as a legend in U.S. numismatics. Owning one is like holding a piece of monetary history.
2. 1918/7-D Buffalo Nickel
Errors can drive value, as seen with the 1918/7-D Buffalo Nickel. This overdate error occurred when a die engraved for “1917” was re-engraved with “1918.” Produced at the Denver Mint, these coins are rare and highly coveted, particularly in higher grades, due to their unique historical story.
3. 1926-S Buffalo Nickel
With a mintage of only 970,000, the 1926-S Buffalo Nickel is among the rarest of the Buffalo series. Many were heavily circulated, making well-preserved examples extremely valuable. High-grade versions are a centerpiece in any serious collection.
4. 1916 Doubled Die Obverse Buffalo Nickel
The 1916 Doubled Die Obverse is a striking error where “LIBERTY” and the Native American’s face show doubling. This visual flaw adds significant value, particularly for coins in excellent condition. It’s a favorite among collectors for its rarity and eye-catching design.
5. 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel
This famous error features a buffalo with only three legs. Excessive die polishing at the Denver Mint removed one leg, creating a unique and memorable coin. Its quirky flaw has elevated the 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel to legendary status in the numismatic world.
6. 1924-S Buffalo Nickel
Struck in limited numbers (1.4 million), the 1924-S Buffalo Nickel is notoriously hard to find in good condition. Poor minting standards and heavy circulation contribute to its rarity, making high-quality examples especially valuable.
7. 1885 Liberty Head V Nickel
With a mintage of just 1.47 million, the 1885 Liberty Head V Nickel stands out in its series. This coin’s historical relevance and scarcity make it highly sought-after. Pristine examples command a premium due to their rarity and appeal.
8. 1912-S Liberty Head V Nickel
As the first nickel minted at the San Francisco Mint, the 1912-S Liberty Head V Nickel had the lowest mintage in the series at just 238,000. Its historical significance and scarcity make it a prized possession, especially in higher grades.
9. 1867 Shield Nickel (With Rays)
The 1867 Shield Nickel with Rays is a unique historical artifact. Featuring rays around the shield, this design was discontinued after one year due to production challenges. Its short-lived design and rarity make it a fascinating addition to any collection.
10. 1942-D Over Horizontal D Jefferson Nickel
War-era nickels often carry interesting stories, and the 1942-D Over Horizontal D Jefferson Nickel is no exception. A minting error caused the “D” mint mark to be punched horizontally before being corrected. This rare defect is a highly collectible piece, especially in well-preserved states.
Why Collectors Value These Nickels
These nickels stand out for their rarity, historical context, or fascinating errors. Whether it’s the mysterious 1913 Liberty Head or the quirky Three-Legged Buffalo, these coins offer a glimpse into the artistry and challenges of U.S. coin production. For numismatists, each piece is a story waiting to be told.
FAQs
Only five were ever made, and their unauthorized minting adds an air of mystery.
It’s a 1937-D Buffalo Nickel with a minting error that removed one leg from the buffalo design.
Look for doubling on “LIBERTY” and the Native American’s facial features.
The rays design was discontinued after just one year, making this version a rare find.
An error in minting caused the “D” mint mark to appear horizontally before being corrected.