Nickels, though often overlooked in everyday transactions, have a rich history that has produced some of the most sought-after coins in numismatics.
Certain nickels, due to their rarity, unique errors, or historical significance, have fetched astounding prices at auctions. Below is a detailed exploration of the top 10 most valuable nickels ever discovered.
Top Most Valuable Nickels
1. 1913 Liberty Head Nickel
The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel stands as a pinnacle in coin collecting. Only five specimens are known to exist, making it one of the rarest U.S. coins.
One such coin, the Olsen Specimen, sold for over $3.7 million in January 2010. Its value stems from its rarity and the mystery surrounding its unauthorized minting.
2. 1918/7-D Buffalo Nickel (Overdate)
This coin features an overdate error where the ‘8’ is stamped over a ‘7’. Such errors occurred during the hurried production of new dies in 1917 and 1918. A pristine example of this nickel fetched $264,500 at a January 2010 auction.
3. 1916 Buffalo Nickel (Doubled Die Obverse)
The 1916 Buffalo Nickel is renowned for its doubled die obverse, where the design elements appear doubled due to a die misalignment. This error makes it highly coveted among collectors. In 2005, one such coin sold for $281,750.
4. 1926-S Buffalo Nickel
With a mintage of just 970,000, the 1926-S Buffalo Nickel is among the lowest production runs in the series. Its scarcity, especially in high grades, has led to significant auction prices, with one example selling for $322,000.
5. 1913-D Buffalo Nickel (Type 2)
The 1913-D Buffalo Nickel Type 2 is notable for its design change during the year, featuring a more recessed bison on the reverse to prevent wear. High-grade specimens are rare and have commanded prices up to $143,750.
6. 1937-D Buffalo Nickel (Three-Legged)
A result of over-polishing the die, the 1937-D Buffalo Nickel appears to have only three legs on the bison. This mint error has made it a favorite among collectors, with top-grade examples selling for $99,875.
7. 1942-D Jefferson Nickel (D Over Horizontal D)
This coin features a mint mark error where a ‘D’ is stamped over a horizontal ‘D’. Such anomalies are rare and sought after, with one specimen selling for $32,200 in 2006.
8. 1943-P Jefferson Nickel (Doubled Eye)
The 1943-P Jefferson Nickel is known for its “doubled eye” error, where Jefferson’s eye appears doubled due to a die error. High-grade examples have fetched prices up to $20,000.
9. 1954-S Jefferson Nickel (S Over D Mint Mark)
This coin exhibits an ‘S’ mint mark stamped over a ‘D’, a rare error that occurred during minting. Such coins in excellent condition have sold for $15,000.
10. 2005-D Jefferson Nickel (Speared Bison)
A modern error coin, the 2005-D Jefferson Nickel features a die gouge that appears as a spear through the bison on the reverse. This unique error has made it a collector’s item, with some examples selling for $1,265.
Table Of The Top 10 Most Valuable Nickels
| Rank | Coin Description | Notable Feature | Auction Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1913 Liberty Head Nickel | One of five known | Over $3.7 million |
| 2 | 1918/7-D Buffalo Nickel (Overdate) | ‘8’ over ‘7’ error | $264,500 |
| 3 | 1916 Buffalo Nickel (Doubled Die Obverse) | Doubled die obverse | $281,750 |
| 4 | 1926-S Buffalo Nickel | Low mintage | $322,000 |
| 5 | 1913-D Buffalo Nickel (Type 2) | Design change during year | $143,750 |
| 6 | 1937-D Buffalo Nickel (Three-Legged) | Missing leg on bison | $99,875 |
| 7 | 1942-D Jefferson Nickel (D Over Horizontal D) | Mint mark error | $32,200 |
| 8 | 1943-P Jefferson Nickel (Doubled Eye) | Doubled eye error | $20,000 |
| 9 | 1954-S Jefferson Nickel (S Over D Mint Mark) | Mint mark overstrike error | $15,000 |
| 10 | 2005-D Jefferson Nickel (Speared Bison) | Die gouge error | $1,265 |
Conclusion
The world of coin collecting is filled with hidden treasures, and nickels, in particular, have proven to be valuable assets for those with a keen eye. Whether due to minting errors, low production numbers, or unique historical circumstances, these coins have fetched impressive sums at auctions.
For collectors and enthusiasts, understanding the nuances and stories behind these nickels adds depth to the hobby and highlights the rich tapestry of American numismatics.
FAQs
1. What Makes a Nickel Valuable?
Factors such as rarity, minting errors, historical significance, and condition contribute to a nickel’s value.
2. How Can I Determine the Value of My Nickel?
Consulting a professional coin appraiser or referencing reputable coin value guides can help determine a nickel’s worth.
3. Are Modern Nickels Worth Collecting?
Yes, certain modern nickels with minting errors or low mintage numbers can be valuable to collectors.
4. What Is a Doubled Die Error?
A doubled die error occurs when a coin’s design is impressed twice, slightly offset, resulting in a doubled appearance.
