Did you know some nickels in your pocket change could be worth thousands of dollars? Rare nickels with unique features, errors, or low mintage have become highly valuable to collectors. In this guide, we’ll look at 16 nickels that could be worth a fortune and help you discover if you have one in your collection.
What Makes a Nickel Valuable?
1. Rare Mint Marks
Nickels with certain mint marks, such as “D” for Denver or “S” for San Francisco, can be worth much more than face value.
2. Low Mintage
Coins produced in smaller quantities are harder to find, making them highly sought after by collectors.
3. Errors and Misprints
Nickels with errors, like doubled dates or off-center strikes, can sell for hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
4. Historical Significance
Certain nickels, like the Buffalo Nickel or the War Nickel, represent important parts of American history and are highly collectible.
16 Rare Nickels to Look Out For
1913 Liberty Head Nickel: Only five known to exist; worth millions.
1937-D Buffalo Nickel (Three-Legged Buffalo): A famous mint error valued at $3,000–$7,000.
1942–1945 Silver War Nickels: Contain silver; worth $1–$10 each.
1950-D Jefferson Nickel: Low mintage, valued at $10–$1,500 depending on condition.
1916 Doubled Die Buffalo Nickel: Rare error coin worth $2,000–$10,000.
1943/2-P Jefferson Nickel: Overdate error valued at $1,000–$3,000.
1936 Buffalo Nickel (Doubled Die Obverse): A valuable error, worth up to $2,000.
1918/7-D Buffalo Nickel: Overdate coin worth $3,000–$50,000.
1924-S Buffalo Nickel: Scarce coin valued at $100–$1,500.
1935 Buffalo Nickel (Doubled Die Reverse): Error coin worth $500–$1,500.
1926-S Buffalo Nickel: Lowest mintage of its series; worth $1,000–$10,000.
1946-D Jefferson Nickel: Known for its sharp strike, worth $50–$200 in mint condition.
2005-P Ocean in View Nickel (Speared Bison Error): Rare error, valued at $200–$1,500.
1971-S Jefferson Nickel (No “S” Proof): A proof error worth $1,000–$3,000.
1964 Jefferson Nickel (SMS): Special Mint Set version worth $8,000–$25,000.
2004-P Peace Medal Nickel (Doubled Die): An error worth $100–$500.
How to Identify Valuable Nickels
Check the Date and Mint Mark: Look for rare years and mint marks on the front and back of the coin.
Inspect for Errors: Use a magnifying glass to spot any misprints or irregularities.
Grade Your Coin: Coins in better condition (uncirculated or proof) are worth significantly more.
Finding a valuable nickel in your pocket change is like discovering hidden treasure. From mint errors to rare dates, these coins are worth much more than their face value. Start checking your coins today—you could be holding a fortune without even knowing it!
1. What is the most valuable nickel ever sold?
The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel holds the record, selling for over $5 million.
2. How can I tell if my nickel is rare?
Check the date, mint mark, and condition. Rare nickels often have low mintage or unique errors.
3. Are silver nickels valuable?
Yes, nickels made from 1942–1945 contain silver and are worth $1–$10 each.
4. Where can I sell a rare nickel?
You can sell rare nickels to coin dealers, online marketplaces, or at coin auctions.
5. How do I get my nickel graded?
Send it to a professional grading service like PCGS or NGC for authentication and grading.
