5 Rare Nickel Modern year nickels are now quite valuable pieces of work, with some successfully selling for nearly one million dollars at a novelty sale. To the chagrin of fat cats seeking for such coins, some of these valuable nickels are still in circulation today, traditionally.
Here we are going to present you five of the most valuable nickels that exist in the world along with details of those coins and the reasons why they cost this much. I can say that if you are fortunate enough to identify one then it turns out to be one of those great discoveries in life!
1913 Liberty Head Nickel
It’s one of the most popular and the scarce American coins in circulation to this date. It is a true rarity as only five pieces of this cymbal have been identified. These nickels were produced in secret, in other words anonymously and as such violations of the law illegal tender coins in the United States of America at the time of production. It has been due to this scarcity as well as the history, that values have got to around $5 million.
Horizontal D Nickel 1942- D Over
The 1942-D nickel is also valuable due to a minting mistake in which two “D” mintmark logos are positioned side by side in a horizontal pattern. Because of this error, copies are very hard to come by, even in circulated condition and collectors are willing to buy them at a high price. Due to its historical importance and because the coin was minted during the Second World War, this nickel is worth nearly $100,000.
1918/7-D Buffalo Nickel
This is another highly valuable nickel, and it is even more famous that the previous specimen in the list for its overdate. The 7 was digit, placed over the 8 in 1918 because of some misconceptions by the people who were minting the money. This is a kind of minting error that they are not very common and those that are known to exist can easily sell for as much as $350,000.
1937-D 3 legged Buffalo Nickel.
This coin features on the Denver Mint and has had a noteworthy hole in front lower leg of the buffalo due to over polishing of die. It’s very rare, and that error makes it the most sought after of all the pieces and some examples may cost up to $150000.
1943-P War Nickel
The 1943-P War Nickel is a special coin that circulated during World War II when nickel had become a critical war element. For this reason, these nickels are different from other nickels since they have silver in them. They’re not as scarce as some previously mentioned, but they’re highly sought and can sell for thousands if in excellent condition.
| Coin Name | Scarcity | Estimated Value | Unique Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1913 Liberty Head Nickel | Extremely Rare | Up to $5 million | Unauthorized minting |
| 1942-D Over Horizontal D | Rare | $100,000+ | Double mint mark error |
| 1918/7-D Buffalo Nickel | Rare | Up to $350,000 | Overdate error |
| 1937-D 3-Legged Buffalo | Rare | Up to $150,000 | Missing buffalo leg |
| 1943-P War Nickel | Collectible | Thousands | Silver composition |
FAQs
Q. What makes a nickel valuable?
A. The coin’s value of a nickel is determined by factors such as; the number of pieces minted and available, any minting flaws or defect, the physical state of the coin and finally, any historical value. A coin that was minted with an error or is a small number in its run typically will be worth more.
Q. What can I do if I possess a rare nickel?
A. Take a good look at the surface of your coins for annotations or striking flaws, impressions, and important dates pertaining to unique or rare nickels. It also helps them to seek for assistance from a professional in order to get an appraisal.
Q. Are there pocket change nickels still floating around today?
A. Of course, it is possible, even though highly unlikely, some of these valuable nickels may still be in use today, or are war nickels or error nickels.
Q. Is it possible for me to auction my rare nickels?
A. Absolutely! In addition, most holders and companies offering auction services are ready to offer large amounts of cash for valuable uncirculated nickels.
Q. Where and the best way should one store up valuable nickels?
A. So as to maintain their condition and value, get them stored in protective cases, in a cool dry place.