By PennyVerse.info
While most 1964 nickels are worth face value, certain rare varieties and errors can be worth thousands of dollars. At PennyVerse.info, we’ve analyzed auction records and market trends to bring you this definitive guide to the most valuable 1964 nickels.
Most Valuable 1964 Nickels
1. 1964 SMS (Special Mint Set) Nickel
- Mintage: ~2-3 million (estimated)
- Key Features: Sharper strike, satin finish
- Value Range:
- MS-65: 50−50−150
- MS-67: 1,000−1,000−5,000
- MS-68: 10,000−10,000−20,000
2. Full Steps (FS) Examples
- Description: 5-6 complete steps on Monticello
- Value Premium: 5-10x regular nickels
- Recent Sales:
- MS-65 FS: $400
- MS-67 FS: $3,250
3. Doubled Die Obverse (DDO)
- Varieties: FS-101 to FS-103
- Value Range: 100−100−5,000
- Most Valuable: FS-101 (strong doubling)
4. Off-Center Strikes
- Value by Percentage:
- 10-20%: 25−25−100
- 30-50%: 150−150−1,000
- 60%+: $2,000+
How to Identify Valuable 1964 Nickels
Step-by-Step Examination
- Check the Steps: Use 5x magnification on Monticello
- Look for Doubling: Especially in “IN GOD WE TRUST”
- Examine Strike Quality: SMS coins have sharper details
- Verify Weight: Should be 5.0 grams
Grading Standards
| Grade | Regular Nickel | Full Steps | SMS |
|---|---|---|---|
| MS-63 | 1−1−2 | 20−20−50 | 30−30−75 |
| MS-65 | 5−5−10 | 100−100−300 | 50−50−150 |
| MS-67 | 25−25−50 | $1,000+ | $1,000+ |
Current Market Trends (2024)
- SMS specimens in high demand
- Registry set competition for top-grade FS examples
- Error coins appreciating rapidly
- Certified coins selling for 3-5x raw prices
Where to Find Valuable 1964 Nickels
- Original Mint Sets (look for SMS quality)
- Bank Rolls (especially old, unsearched rolls)
- Estate Sales (in complete collections)
- Coin Shows (dealers specializing in moderns)
FAQs About 1964 Nickels
Q: Are all 1964 nickels silver?
A: No – only wartime 1942-1945 nickels contained silver. 1964 nickels are 75% copper, 25% nickel.
Q: How many Full Steps nickels exist?
A: Perhaps 1 in 5,000 MS-65+ nickels qualify as FS.
Q: Where’s the best place to sell rare nickels?
A: Heritage Auctions for coins over $1,000, eBay for lesser examples.
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One response to “1964 Nickel Value Guide: Rare Varieties Worth Up to $20,000+”
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I have a Jefferson nickel w/ no ment mark, and one the reverse side is a buffalo facing RIGHT. I thought they were only facing left, could you please tell me if this coin could have been worth anything. Curious
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