Join on WhatsApp
Get the latest updates directly on WhatsApp – motivation, news & more!
Join On WhatsApp
That seemingly ordinary nickel at the bottom of your drawer might be worth far more than you think. While most nickels are only worth five cents, certain rare issues have achieved remarkable collector value, with some fetching hundreds of thousands or even millions of dollars.
From mint errors to limited mintage coins, these pieces are not just currency they are historical artifacts with fascinating stories. Here are some of the most valuable nickels ever minted in the United States, why they are prized, and what collectors are paying for them today.
1913 Liberty Head Nickel
The 1913 Liberty Head nickel is one of the most legendary coins in American numismatics. Only five examples are known to exist, and they were never supposed to be minted.
The official Liberty Head design ended in 1912, yet somehow five coins with the 1913 date appeared. Experts believe these coins were created secretly, likely by a mint employee. Despite its mysterious origin, the 1913 Liberty has become an icon of coin collecting, even appearing in popular media.
1918/7-D Buffalo Nickel
This nickel is famous for being a mint error. During World War I, the U.S. Mint reused a 1917 die and stamped the 1918 date over it, leaving a visible tail of the seven under the eight. This overdate makes it highly sought after by collectors.
High-grade examples have sold for more than 350,000 dollars, while pristine coins today could exceed 500,000. Even worn examples can still fetch tens of thousands. It remains a symbol of wartime minting challenges.
1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel
The 1937-D Buffalo nickel earned its nickname because one of the buffalo’s legs appears missing. The unusual feature was caused by over-polishing of the mint dies.
This coin is popular among collectors for its unique appearance and story. Values vary greatly depending on condition, with top examples selling for over 100,000 dollars.
1914-D Lincoln Wheat Penny
The 1914-D Lincoln penny is notable for its rarity and ease of identification. Coins in lower grades can sell for a few hundred dollars, while uncirculated versions can fetch over 150,000 dollars.
Grade ranges and approximate prices are as follows:
Grade Price Range
Good to Very Good 500 – 1,000 dollars
Fine to Very Fine 1,000 – 2,500 dollars
Extra Fine to AU 3,000 – 10,000 dollars
Uncirculated 25,000 – 100,000 dollars
This coin illustrates that even minting mistakes or low production numbers can create highly prized collectibles.
1880 Shield Nickel
The 1880 Shield nickel is often overlooked but has become increasingly popular among collectors. With a mintage of just 16,000, it is the lowest for any nickel in U.S. history, and many were circulated.
Even worn examples can sell for around 2,000 dollars, while uncirculated specimens reach 20,000 to 75,000 dollars. Exceptional coins, like an MS-66+, have been sold for over 100,000 dollars. This nickel proves that some of the most valuable coins can be hidden in plain sight.
1950-D Jefferson Nickel
The 1950-D Jefferson nickel demonstrates that valuable coins are not limited to the 19th or early 20th century. With a low mintage of just 2.6 million, it became a collector favorite immediately. High-grade examples are especially prized, making it accessible to both new and seasoned collectors.
1955 Doubled Die Lincoln Cent
The 1955 doubled die Lincoln cent is another highly sought-after coin. Circulated examples sell for a modest 15 to 30 dollars, but uncirculated coins with full details can fetch between 500 and 5,000 dollars. Exceptional examples have sold for more than 15,000 dollars. This coin shows that rare minting features continue to appeal to collectors.
Finding Valuable Nickels
Rare nickels are still discovered today. While a 1913 Liberty nickel is unlikely to appear in your couch, coins like the 1937-D or 1950-D can sometimes be found in circulation. The thrill of discovery continues to attract both casual collectors and serious numismatists.
Certification
If you think you have found a valuable nickel, it is important to get it certified. Organizations such as PCGS, NGC, and ANACS can authenticate and grade your coin. Certification fees typically range from 25 to 75 dollars, which is a small price for protecting a coin worth thousands or more.
Rare nickels are more than currency. They are stories, pieces of history, and symbols of America’s minting legacy. From low mintage coins to minting errors, each nickel offers a unique glimpse into the past.
FAQs
How many 1913 Liberty nickels exist?
Only five are known today.
What is the value of a 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo nickel?
It can range from 500 to over 150,000 dollars depending on condition.
Why is the 1918/7-D nickel valuable?
It is a rare wartime minting error with a visible overdate.
Is the 1950-D Jefferson nickel collectible?
Yes, especially in high-grade examples.
Can rare nickels still be found in circulation?
Yes, older Jefferson nickels and certain varieties can still appear.