💰 15 Most Valuable Nickels Worth Money

Nickels have a fascinating place in American coinage, and while many are common and affordable, some rare specimens can fetch astonishing prices. Let’s explore the world of collectible nickels, their history, and what makes them so valuable.

📜 Nickel History

The history of American nickel coins began during the American Civil War. As people hoarded gold and silver, these precious metals nearly disappeared from circulation. The Mint struggled to produce enough coins, leading to the introduction of nickel coins to facilitate daily transactions.

In 1866, President Andrew Johnson approved the minting of five-cent nickel pieces. The U.S. Mint produced four different nickel types, some of which are now highly sought after by collectors willing to pay top dollar.

🪙 Nickel Types

1. 🔰 Shield Nickels (1866 to 1883)
   • Produced in Philadelphia without a mint mark, Shield nickels are common, starting at $18 for heavily worn coins. However, rarer dates from 1879 or 1880 can be worth $200 to $1,000. Notable sales include the 1880 Shield nickel, which sold for $20,000.
2. 🗽 Liberty Head Nickels (1883 to 1912)
   • Known for production errors, the Liberty Head (V) nickel was initially mistaken for gold due to its design. The rarest, the 1913 PR 66 Liberty head V nickel, sold for a staggering $4,560,000 in 2018. Key dates include 1885 and 1886, worth around $2,000.
3. 🐂 Buffalo Nickels (1913 to 1938)
   • An iconic design featuring a Native American and a bison, Buffalo nickels are highly collectible. Key dates, like the 1926 S MS 66, are worth $322,000. The 1918/7 D MS 65 error coin sold for $350,750.
4. 🏛️ Jefferson Nickels (1938 to 1964)
   • Dedicated to President Thomas Jefferson, these nickels are popular among collectors. Key dates include the 1938 Philadelphia mint and the 1939 San Francisco mint.

💎 The Most Valuable Rare Nickels

Once considered low-value coins, some rare nickels are now worth a fortune. Here are the most valuable specimens:

1. 1913 PR 66 Liberty Nickel (The Olsen Specimen)
   • Sold for $4,560,000 in 2018, this coin is one of only five known to exist.
2. 1918/7 D MS 65 Buffalo Nickel (Doubled Die Obverse)
   • An error coin sold for $350,750, showcasing a unique doubling of the date.
3. 1926 S MS 66 Buffalo Nickel
   • With a low mintage, this coin sold for $322,000 at auction.
4. 1916 MS 64 Buffalo Nickel (Doubled Die Obverse)
   • Sold for $281,750, this coin features a notable mint error.
5. 1913 D MS 68 Buffalo Nickel (Type 2)
   • This rare type was sold for $143,750 in 2008.
6. 1917 S MS 67 Buffalo Nickel
   • A well-struck example fetched $138,000 at auction.
7. 1920 D MS 67 Buffalo Nickel
   • This low-mintage coin sold for $138,000 in 2008.
8. 1867 PR 66 Shield Nickel (Proof with Rays)
   • Only 25 proofs were minted, making it extremely rare. One sold for $132,250.
9. 1918 S MS 66 Buffalo Nickel
   • A well-preserved example sold for $125,350.
10. 1927 S MS 66 Buffalo Nickel
    • This coin fetched $125,350 due to its scarcity in uncirculated condition.
11. 1880 MS 66 Shield Nickel
    • With a low mintage, this coin sold for $117,500.
12. 1935 MS 65 Buffalo Nickel (Doubled Die Reverse)
    • An error piece sold for $104,650, showcasing a unique doubling.
13. 1937 D MS 67 Buffalo Nickel (Three Legs)
    • This significant error coin sold for $97,750.

📈 Summary

Rare nickels are more valuable than ever, attracting collectors willing to invest significant sums. Their historical significance and unique characteristics make them excellent additions to any collection. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a beginner, keep an eye out for these treasures; you might just find a nickel worth a fortune!