Coin collecting is a captivating way to explore American history, and rare nickels hold a particularly special place in this journey.
Some nickels have become iconic due to their rarity, minting errors, or historical significance. Collectors and investors alike treasure these unique coins, which often sell for impressive amounts at auctions.
In this article, we’ll highlight the top 10 rarest nickels that shaped American coin collecting history and continue to capture the imagination of numismatists worldwide.
1. 1913 Liberty Head V Nickel
The 1913 Liberty Head V Nickel is among the most famous and rare coins in U.S. history. Only five examples of this coin are known to exist, making it a true collector’s gem.
The coin’s origins are shrouded in mystery, with some speculating that it was struck illegally, but no definitive explanation has been given.
- Value: $4.56 million (sold in 2018).
2. 1918/7-D Buffalo Nickel
The 1918/7-D Buffalo Nickel is a rare “overdate” error coin. The die intended for 1917 was mistakenly used for minting 1918 coins, creating this unique error piece.
The coin, struck in Denver, is highly sought after by collectors, particularly when found in mint condition.
- Value: Premium price, especially in higher-grade condition.
3. 1926-S Buffalo Nickel
With only 970,000 1926-S Buffalo Nickels minted, this coin is one of the rarest of the Buffalo series. Due to heavy circulation, finding one in excellent condition is a rare occurrence, driving its value even higher.
- Value: High prices for well-preserved examples.
4. 1916 Doubled Die Obverse Buffalo Nickel
A 1916 Doubled Die Obverse Buffalo Nickel features an error where the word “LIBERTY” and the Native American’s face are doubled. This striking error makes the coin a favorite among collectors, especially in excellent condition.
- Value: Increased value due to the doubling error.
5. 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel
The 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel is a famous error coin caused by over-polishing the die at the Denver Mint.
The result is a buffalo with only three legs, making it a highly desirable coin for collectors of rare error pieces.
- Value: In high demand among collectors of minting errors.
6. 1924-S Buffalo Nickel
With a mintage of just 1.4 million, the 1924-S Buffalo Nickel is another rare piece due to its low production and poor striking quality. The scarcity of well-preserved examples makes it a highly sought-after coin among serious collectors.
- Value: Commands high prices for coins in mint condition.
7. 1885 Liberty Head V Nickel
The 1885 Liberty Head V Nickel is one of the most coveted coins in the Liberty Head series, with only 1.47 million minted. Its scarcity and historical significance make it a highly valuable collector’s item.
- Value: Extremely valuable due to its low mintage.
8. 1912-S Liberty Head V Nickel
As the first Liberty Head Nickel struck in San Francisco, the 1912-S Liberty Head V Nickel is incredibly rare, with only 238,000 produced. Its limited mintage and historical importance make it a prized piece for collectors.
- Value: Considerably more valuable in better grades.
9. 1867 Shield Nickel (with Rays)
The 1867 Shield Nickel (with Rays) is a unique piece, as it was the only year the coin featured rays around the shield design. The rays were removed after just one year due to die wear, making this a rare and distinctive coin.
- Value: Highly collectible due to its unique design.
10. 1942-D Over Horizontal D Jefferson Nickel
The 1942-D Over Horizontal D Jefferson Nickel features a minting error where the mintmark “D” was stamped horizontally.
The error was later corrected, making the initial version extremely rare and highly sought after by collectors.
- Value: Pristine examples can fetch top dollar.
Key Factors That Affect the Value of Rare Nickels
| Coin Name | Rarity | Value Range | Minting Error |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1913 Liberty Head V Nickel | Extremely Rare | $4.56 million (2018 auction) | No Minting Error |
| 1918/7-D Buffalo Nickel | Rare | Premium in higher grades | Overdate Error |
| 1926-S Buffalo Nickel | Rare | High prices for good condition | No Minting Error |
| 1916 Doubled Die Obverse Buffalo Nickel | Rare | Increased due to error | Doubled Die Error |
| 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel | Rare | High demand among error collectors | Minting Error |
| 1924-S Buffalo Nickel | Rare | High value for mint condition | No Minting Error |
| 1885 Liberty Head V Nickel | Rare | Extremely valuable due to low mintage | No Minting Error |
| 1912-S Liberty Head V Nickel | Extremely Rare | Higher value in better grades | No Minting Error |
| 1867 Shield Nickel (with Rays) | Rare | Highly collectible | Rays Removed |
| 1942-D Over Horizontal D Jefferson Nickel | Rare | Pristine examples fetch top dollar | Minting Error |
These rare nickels tell unique stories of American history, minting errors, and limited production. Whether you are a seasoned collector or a beginner, seeking out these rare pieces can be a rewarding venture.
From the 1913 Liberty Head V Nickels to the 1942-D Over Horizontal D Jefferson Nickels each coin has its own place in numismatic history.
If you’re lucky enough to own one of these rare treasures, it could be a valuable addition to your collection, with potential for significant appreciation in the future.
Why is the 1913 Liberty Head V Nickel so valuable?
The 1913 Liberty Head V Nickels is extremely valuable due to its rarity—only five known examples exist. Its mysterious origins add to its allure and contribute to its record-breaking auction prices.
How do minting errors affect the value of nickels?
Minting errors, such as overdates or design flaws like the 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickels, significantly increase the value of coins due to their rarity and unique characteristics. Collectors highly prize error coins.
What is the best condition for a rare nickels to fetch high prices?
Rare nickels in mint condition or with high grades like MS65 or PR65 are more valuable. The better the condition, the higher the value, as it increases the coin’s rarity and appeal.