She has also managed an online antiques community. You can find a range of nickels worth money in many years, including 1880, 1885, 1919, 1920, 1926, 1927, 1936, 1937, 1942, and 1964. So, when one of these true gems crosses the auction block, it always brings many bidders and fierce competition. The top of the number is flat instead of rounded, and the middle appears thicker than it should. The motto IN GOD WE TRUST is inscribed around the coins left edge, while the word LIBERTY and the date, 1944, appear around the coins right edge. Most valuable coins fall into three categories of circulated, uncirculated, and proof. 7 Rare Wheat Pennies To Collect & What Theyre Worth Today, This 1982 Copper Penny Is Worth $10,000! Copper prices have been up, and so, too, are nickel values. There are numerous examples of these coins, and they can be worth between $50 and $100. In uncirculated condition, the coin can fetch up to $700. 1972 Dollar Coin Value See How Much Your 1972 Eisenhower Silver Dollars Are Worth! In addition, when considering the Philadelphia and San Francisco coins, most 1944 S nickels are worn or generally in poor condition. Very few were set aside for collection, and of those, there aren't many in near mint condition. Stay up to date with everything about U.S Coins, We dont spam! There are 3mintmarks to look for on wartime nickels: For the record, the 1942 wartime nickel was the first U.S. coin on which a P mintmark was ever placed. Web2019 S Jefferson Nickels -$02-015 $4.39 Seller: whcwa Condition: Proof 1945S Jefferson 35% Silver War Nickel NGC MS 66 Nice. $4.15. These are usually the most expensive nickels you can find. Yet, in 2021, $2,650 was paid for a single 2005 D MS 66 Speared Bison on eBay. Generally speaking, coins that appear more worn will be worth less than coins that are in better condition. One in amazing shape sold for $32,900 in 2014. One premium condition example of the 1964 nickel sold for $32,900 in 2016, equal to about $39,600 in 2022 dollars. An avid antiques collector herself, Kate has written about antiques for many years. Nothing is more eye-catching to a coin collector than seeing a Proof coin. 6 Vintage Sneakers That Are Still in High Demand. But the truly collectible nickels worth more than just their melt value. In My love for coins began when I was 11 years old. The most expensive 1944-P nickel, graded MS60, was sold at 7,475 in 2011. Work on memorizing this list of years and you might be able to identify some valuable nickels easily. Why more uncirculated examples were not saved is a mystery to numismatists. This may be why so few uncirculated examples were saved for coin collectors. Also worth noting silver nickels arent made entirely from silver. So, the news about nickels being worth more than face value. The result is a doubling or tripling of the design, with each impression appearing at a slightly different angle. The San Francisco mint struck 21,640,000 Jefferson nickels in 1944. In 2012, one sold for $48,875 at auction, equivalent to $61,550 in 2022 dollars. They are very rare in near mint condition with crisp full steps. This minting mistake has the image of Susan B. Anthony stamped over the top of Monticello on a Jefferson nickel. Off-centers are quite interesting errors that feature a misaligned or missing design. Two are permanently in museum collections including one at the Smithsonian, leaving just three for collectors. Lower-grade coins They can be worth up to $11,100 if in exceptional condition. Some have a value of $1 or more, and a few are even worth more than $10. Although 1953 nickels from the Denver Mint aren't rare, those with full steps are less common. Therefore, coin collectors who seek to assemble a complete set of Buffalo Nickels actively seek one of these coins. There are only 24 known examples with full steps, and one sold in 2019 for $24,000. The Jefferson nickel from 1944 comprises 56% copper, 35% silver, and 9% manganese. Value of these silver nickels is further based on collector interest. #14 1935 Buffalo NickelDoubled Die Reverse, #4 1916 Buffalo NickelDoubled Die Obverse, #2 1918/7-D Buffalo NickelDoubled Die Obverse, #1 1913 Liberty NickelThe Olsen Specimen, 10 Rarest and Most Valuable Coins in the World, Lincoln Wheat Penny Key Dates, Rarities and Varieties, Buffalo (Indian Head) Nickel Values and Prices, Early Jefferson Nickel Values 1938 - 1964, August 2018; ANA Stack's Bowers; Session 3; Rarities Night, 1918/7-D Buffalo NickelDoubled Die Obverse. Time to Start Hoarding Nickels? A particularly rare example to find with full steps, the 1953 issue of the Jefferson nickel from the San Francisco Mint can be very valuable. In truth, when a Its what allows us the ability to trade our work for things we need. This shows up especially well in the word "MONTICELLO" and in "FIVE CENTS." When one comes to auction, it is certain to realize a record price. By recessing the denomination below the Buffalo, the mint corrected the problem of the denomination prematurely wearing off the coin. Unlike Lincoln wheat pennieswhich almost everyone knows about and saves from circulation there are many old Jefferson nickels made in the 1930s, 1940s, and 1950s that are still in circulation simply because they look much like the newer Jefferson nickels. Some of the most valuable nickels came from the Buffalo series, which saw the animal on the reverse, or tails side of the coin from 1913 to 1938. In numismatic circles, 1944 nickels missing at least 50% of the design are highly collectible and are generally worth more. If you can identify the rarity, the history, and the condition of any nickel, then you will be able to conquer this hobby. Depending on the year, it can be somewhat rare for a Jefferson nickel to clearly show all the steps of Monticello on the back. The law states that those who violate laws against melting pennies or nickels can face a fine of $10,000, imprisonment for 5 years, or both. Full steps coins are extremely hard to find, and the 1952 issue from the Denver Mint is especially coveted by collectors. Examine them for the following signs of a rare coin: Even though you might not have a Jefferson nickel worth thousands of dollars, you could still have a valuable five-cent piece. Finally, youll want to become acquainted with the world of grading valuable coins. There are just five known examples of the coin, according to the PCGS. A star separates the word LIBERTY and the date. Ive contributed hundreds of articles for various coin publications including COINage, The Numismatist, Numismatic News, Coin Dealer Newsletter, Coin Values, and CoinWeek. One with almost no flaws and beautiful rainbow patina rings sold for $15,275 in 2017. This created a lot of hype and demand and that has never died over the years. Get expert tips for collecting and caring for your Depression glass. One sold for $15,275 in 2016. Most of these coins found their way into circulation; therefore, uncirculated examples sell for a premium price. As of today, circulation grade 1944-S nickels are worth very little; they are certainly worth more than face value, but their average value is between $1.25 and $4. In 1913, the Buffalo nickel was first produced. Incidentally, it cost the U.S. Mint 2.1 cents to strike each penny in 2021. In fact, at one point, the value of nickel went to $100,000 per metric ton. Very few are in good enough shape to show the steps. The coin, which features a portrait of Thomas Jefferson on the front, became the official nickel design in 1938. Millions of the 1944 Jefferson nickels are still in circulation, and this coin can be ranked low on the rarity scale. Once again, nickel enthusiasts have the San Francisco mint to thank for this set of valuable nickels. But perhaps most importantly, youll be able to check the change you receive to make sure nickels worth money arent hiding without your knowledge. According to the seller, the coin was certified by Numismatic Guaranty Company (NGC) in an MS 67 grade. A highly collectible mint mistake is the 1943/2 Jefferson nickel. This coin's extreme rarity and its pristine condition makes it the most valuable coin in the Shield nickel series. Silver nickels were made from 1942 through 1945 and have a large mintmark over the dome of Monticello on the reverse. But perhaps most importantly in the entire world of the most valuable coins, youll also need to understand a lot about the conditions of the nickels you want to collect. But the 1920-D, out of the Denver Mint, is one of those special examples that has few pristine nickels left from the 9.5 million produced. On the 1914 4 Over 3 Buffalo nickels, you can see a 3 sticking out from the overcast 4. The Type I coin has the denomination FIVE CENTS on the reverse below the Buffalo on a raised mound. In fact, the most valuable Jefferson nickels are worth thousands of dollars. Generally, 1944 nickels with a double repunched mintmark are worth about $3 to $5, but those with a triple, quadrupled, or one mintmark placed incorrectly over one thats correct can fetch $100 or more. Most Valuable Quarters: A List Of Silver Quarters & Other Rare Quarters You Should Hold Onto! Theres a technique I normally use when Im looking for old nickels, and its called coin roll searching. All products featured in this article are independently selected by our editors. Most Valuable Nickel 1. Uncirculated variations of the nickel sell for hundreds of thousands, including a record $276,000 sale in 2008 for a 1926 doubled die coin in mint condition. Advertise a display every week and get a monthly 10% discount. One does not need a magnifying glass or microscope to see the dramatic doubling on the last two digits of the year on the obverse of the coin. Sold: April 2008; Bowers & Merena, The April 2008 Chicago Rarities Sale. While some 1964 Jefferson coins are nickels worth money that a lot of people can afford, there is a mysterious one that is one of the most expensive nickels ever sold on eBay. The reason copper factors into the value of a nickel is because a standard Jefferson five-cent coin isnt made from just nickel. To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. Now, bear in mind the fact that nickel values are constantly fluctuating as are precious metals prices across the board. The Shield nickels were produced from 1866 to 1883, replacing the fractional currency notes issued prior. An example in mint condition with full steps sold in 2006 for $32,200. This means that if you can find one that is struck exceptionally well, you might have one of the most expensive nickels. If this imperfection is not present, it is a clear indication of an altered coin. This nickel wouldnt win contests for drawing within the Iines, but thats what makes it so special. The 1913 Liberty Head nickels are among the best-known and most sought-after US coins in existence. For example, in 2021, it cost the United States Mint 8.52 cents to make each nickel. Also known as full-step nickels, these coins can fetch more than $100, especially for uncirculated, mint state coins. Transform vintage shutters into stunning decor for your home with these easy and creative ideas. Ive authored nearly 1,000 articles here at The Fun Times Guide to Coins (many of them with over 50K shares), and I welcome your coin questions in the comments below! All rights reserved. Well touch on the coins history and its physical characteristics. One sold in 2014 for $23,500. The special strike 1964 Jefferson nickels are some of the most valuable rare nickels wanted by collectors. All are worth 10 cents or more each. If it doesnt make you go cross-eyed, perhaps you can pick one up. Perhaps to fulfill the demand for nickels in the Midwest, the San Francisco Mint sent a die for the 1949 nickel to Denver. Only 16,000 were made for circulation. Even silver wartime Jefferson nickels look nearly identical to regular nickels, except for one distinguishing mark that Ill tell you about in just a bit. In excellent condition, these are valued at around $7,100 today. Value: $138,000. The mint overused the die, taking too long before replacing them. If the sides of the steps are wavy and less distinct, you may have this subtle and valuable minting error. The die used for many of the 1919-S Buffalo Nickels that came out of the San Francisco mint had a sloppy appearance and were struck poorly. That year, the Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco mints struck the Jefferson nickels, resulting in three varieties. A 1926-S coin in mint state sold for a record $322,000 at an auction in 2008, and circulated variations of the coin can sell for up to $5,000. The other 75% is copper! An example sold in 2006 for $17,250. Properly creating a coin die requires multiple impressions from the master hub. The value of a 1944 S nickel depends on the coins condition. Prime examples are some of the most expensive nickels around. A Few of These Nickels Are Worth a Small Fortune. All Jefferson nickels minted between 1942 and 1945 contain 35% silver. All coins minted at each facility have a mintmark, P, D, or S, respectively. WebTOP 15 MOST VALUABLE NICKELS Rare Nickels in Pocket Change Worth Money (Buffalo, Liberty,Shield) Currency World 159K views 3 years ago 6 Placer Gold Geology Chris Ralph, The highest standalone sale price for a 1913 Liberty Head nickel was $4.56million for a proof coin at auction in 2018, according to the PCGS. From the beginning, the odds were against any large number of these coins being saved in uncirculated condition. It sold for $14,100 in 2014. Circulated coins of this date are scarce but obtainable for the common collector. This coin's high level of preservation and dramatic eye appeal make it an extremely valuable coin. Value: $5,842. This mistake at the mint has turned into one of the most highly sought-after nickels worth millions. One sold for $138,000 in 2008, equal to about $185,300 in 2022 dollars. Real People. This means that the 1951 nickels mostly entered circulation and became worn as a result. Real Helpful. In an uncirculated mint state, it can fetch up to $1,500. Over 1.4 million 1924-S Buffalo Nickels were created. While many years have a plentiful number of circulated and proof examples, 1867 is not the case. The 1944 nickel was struck at the mints in Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco. You will also learn about the various errors that significantly increase your nickels value. Stick to collecting U.S. nickels, not melting them!Time to Start Hoarding Nickels? There are about 7,000 of these coins still in existence today, with around 6,900 of them in circulation. These imperfections must have been substantial because the worker polished the die beyond usual standards. Step 1: Date and Mintmark Variety - Vintage nickels are identified and valued by date and mint variety. More than 15,000 1916 nickels minted in Philadelphia still exist, but only about 400 have doubled die errors, according to PCGS. The 1913 Liberty Nickel is not only the rarest nickel in the world, it is one of the most valuable coins ever. There are only five known 1913 Liberty Nickels and in May 2007, one was sold for nearly $5 million! Although these nickels are quite common, some in mint uncirculated condition can fetch you a neat sum. While 1913 is the year the design changed from the Liberty Head to the Buffalo, 1914 was a special year too. The King of 20th Century Coins is the 1913 Liberty Head nickel. The most expensive 1944-P nickel, graded MS60, was sold at 7,475 in 2011. 2. Even amid an economic downturn in 2008, an MS-67 grade example sold for a whopping $138,000, or about $185,300 in 2022 dollars. ; Records have also been broken in 2021 for the 1964 Nickel D/D grade MS65 selling for Or maybe it would be wiser to stick to the 1918 and 1919 nickels since they arent quite so rare. During the reverse coin die manufacturing, sloppy workmanship resulted in this die variety. Not all 1942 nickels have the large mintmarks over Monticello. 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