Introduction
Nickels are just typical pocket change to the average observer, but in numismatics some of these rarer denominations have had astronomically high valuations. Collectively, there are fewer than a dozen really rare, sought-after nickels that, valued together, have a combined price of well more than $250 million. To be among those who found one of them, you’d hold a potential fortune that will alter your life. Here are the top 5 most valuable nickel coins and why they are so special.
1913 Liberty Head Nickel
The 1913 Liberty Head nickel is the rarest of rare nickels. This coin didn’t exist in accordance to plan, as the Liberty Head kind changed into discontinued in 1913 with the advent of the Buffalo nickel.
But five examples were clandestinely struck, probably by a mint worker, and later found their way into collectors’ hands.
Key Facts:
- Total Known: 5
- Notable Sale: $4.56 million (2018)
Its disputed origins and ultra-rarity make it the most valuable nickel ever made. These coins have even appeared in pop culture, such as a famous episode of Hawaii Five-O. Experts think that if one were sold today, it could sell for more than $5 million.
1918/7-D Buffalo Nickel
This unusual overdate mistake was caused by a 1917 die that was repunched with the 1918 date in error at the Denver Mint. Traces of the “7” can be noticed beneath the “8,” which renders it among the most rare Buffalo nickels.
Key Facts:
- Estimated Surviving Coins: Fewer than 100
- Significant Sale: $350,750 (2006)
Worn specimens still sell for between $25,000 and $75,000, and uncirculated examples sell for more than $500,000. This war-time minting error is a treasure for collectors.
1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel
Perhaps the most well-known mint mistake, the 1937-D Buffalo nickel appears to have only three legs because of excessive die polishing. The missing leg is clearly visible, making one of the most identifiable mint errors.
Key Facts:
- Estimated Surviving Coins: 1,000-2,000
- Notable Sale: $161,000 (2017, MS-67)
Even specimens that have been worn begin at about $500, while superior specimens fetch upwards of $100,000. This error coin is one of the most widely sought rarities in United States coin collecting.
1880 Shield Nickel
Minted in only 16,000, the 1880 Shield nickel is the lowest-circulation nickel ever made. Demand for nickels had decreased at the time, so production was held back.
Key Facts:
- Total Mintage: 16,000
- Notable Sale: $108,000 (2019, MS-66+)
Even heavily worn specimens bring $2,000 or more, with uncirculated ones reaching as high as $75,000. This scarcity isn’t an error—it’s just a rare date among U.S. coinage.
1950-D Jefferson Nickel
This nickel from the post-World War II era is a contemporary rarity. Due to its low mintage of 2.63 million, collectors were aware of its rarity and stockpiled uncirculated specimens.
Key Facts:
- Total Mintage: 2.63 million
- Notable Sale: $15,275 (2018, MS-67+ Full Steps)
Circulated specimens sell for $15-$30, but high-grade specimens with Full Steps on Monticello are worth $500-$5,000 or higher. This coin is still a relatively affordable key date for collectors.
Final Thought
These five rare nickel coins prove that even small change can hold massive value. Whether it’s a mysterious 1913 Liberty Nickel, an overdate error, or a low-mintage Buffalo Nickel, these coins continue to break auction records. If you happen to find one in your collection, you could be in possession of a true numismatic treasure!
FAQ’s
Are valuable nickels still in circulation?
It’s unlikely, but older and error coins can sometimes be found in rolls or estate collections.
Why is the 1950-D Jefferson nickel valuable?
It was low mintage, and many were preserved by collectors.
What is the very best priced nickel ever sold?
The 1913 Liberty Head nickel offered for $4.56 million in 2018.