1964 Jefferson Nickel Value Guide: Rare Varieties Worth Up to $32,900+

The Hidden Treasures in Common Pocket Change

While most 1964 nickels are worth face value, certain rare varieties—especially Special Mint Set (SMS) coins with Full Steps details—can command five-figure prices. Here’s how to identify these valuable exceptions.

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Key Value Factors for 1964 Nickels

1. Special Mint Set (SMS) Specimens

💰 Top Value: $32,900 (PCGS MS67 FS)

• Characteristics:
  • Frosted devices on mirror-like fields (satin finish)
  • Sharper strike than regular circulation coins
  • Full 5-6 steps visible on Monticello (FS designation)
• How to Identify:
  • Compare to regular 1964 coins (SMS has superior detail)
  • Look for original mint set packaging (if available)

2. Full Step (FS) Regular Strikes

💰 Value Range: 50−50−1,200

• Grading Premiums:
  • MS65 FS: 50−50−100
  • MS67 FS: 500−500−1,200
• Diagnostics:
  • Complete stair steps on Monticello
  • No contact marks on step areas

3. Doubled Die Varieties

💰 Top Value: $1,850 (1964-D DDO)

• Key Errors:
  • 1964-D DDO-001: Strong doubling on “MONTICELLO”
  • 1964-P DDR-001: Doubled wheat ears

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Condition Census & Recent Sales

Variety/Grade	Price Realized	Auction House	Date
SMS MS67 FS	$32,900	Heritage	2021
SMS MS66 FS	$12,925	Stack’s Bowers	2022
DDO MS65	$1,850	Legend	2023
MS67 FS	$1,150	eBay	2024

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Step-by-Step Authentication Guide

1. Magnification Check (10x+)

• SMS Coins Show:
  • Micro-mirror fields
  • Frosted device surfaces
  • No bag marks (original mint set quality)

2. Full Step Verification

• Genuine FS Examples:
  • 5-6 complete steps (not worn or merged)
  • Sharp step edges (no rounding)

3. Error Coin Diagnostics

• True Doubled Dies:
  • Mechanical doubling (not machine doubling)
  • Distinct separation lines in lettering

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Where to Find These Rarities

Best Hunting Methods:

1. Original 1964 SMS Sets (look for sealed sets)
2. Bank Rolls (especially original 1960s rolls)
3. Estate Sales (check old collections)

Recent Discovery:

A collector found a 1964 SMS FS nickel in a 2rollpurchasedfromabank−latersoldfor∗∗2rollpurchasedfromabank−latersoldfor∗∗18,800**

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Selling Strategies

Maximize Your Profit:

• For SMS Coins: Heritage or Stack’s Bowers auctions
• For FS Regular Strikes: PCGS CoinFacts Forum
• For Error Coins: eBay (with proper certification)

Critical Tip:

Raw coins typically sell for 30-50% less than certified equivalents

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Free Professional Evaluation

Think you have a rare 1964 nickel? Email clear photos to:
📧 nickels@pennyverse.info
Subject: “1964 NICKEL CHECK”

We’ll provide:
✔ Free variety attribution
✔ Current market valuation
✔ Best selling options

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