These 9 nickels still in circulation are worth up to $4,200

While a nickel’s face value is just five cents, certain rare specimens in circulation today are worth significantly more—up to $4,200. These coins, often overlooked in daily transactions, are highly sought after by collectors due to their rarity, historical significance, and unique features.

Understanding Nickel Value

The value of a nickel extends beyond its monetary denomination. Factors such as minting errors, limited production runs, and distinctive design elements can elevate a coin’s worth exponentially. Collectors, known as numismatists, meticulously search for these anomalies, making certain nickels highly valuable.

Top 9 Valuable Nickels Still in Circulation

Below is a curated list of nine nickels that, if found in your change, could be worth a substantial amount:

Year	Nickel Type	Distinguishing Feature	Estimated Value
1926-S	Buffalo Nickel	Low mintage; scarce in high grades	Up to $4,200
1916	Doubled Die Buffalo Nickel	Doubling of the date on the obverse side	Approximately $3,800
1918/7-D	Overdate Buffalo Nickel	Overdate error with remnants of ‘7’ under ‘8’	Around $3,500
1937-D	3-Legged Buffalo Nickel	Error resulting in the buffalo missing one front leg	About $2,000
1942-D	D Over Horizontal D Jefferson Nickel	Mint mark error with a horizontal ‘D’ under the standard ‘D’	Approximately $11,126
1955	D Over S Jefferson Nickel	Mint mark error with ‘D’ over ‘S’	Around $3,738
1939	Doubled Monticello Jefferson Nickel	Doubling on Monticello building on the reverse side	Approximately $23,500
1964	Special Mint Set Jefferson Nickel	High-quality finish with full steps; rare collector’s item	Up to $32,900
1950-D	Jefferson Nickel	Low mintage; highly sought after by collectors	Between $600 and $800

1. 1926-S Buffalo Nickel: This coin had a limited mintage, making it rare, especially in well-preserved conditions. Collectors value it for its scarcity and historical significance.
2. 1916 Doubled Die Buffalo Nickel: A minting error caused the date to appear twice on the obverse side, creating a doubling effect. This rarity significantly increases its value among collectors.
3. 1918/7-D Overdate Buffalo Nickel: An overdate error where the ‘8’ in the date was stamped over a ‘7’, leaving traces of the original digit visible. Such errors are highly prized for their uniqueness.
4. 1937-D 3-Legged Buffalo Nickel: Due to excessive die polishing, this coin features a buffalo with only three legs, a distinctive error that makes it highly collectible.
5. 1942-D D Over Horizontal D Jefferson Nickel: A mint mark error where a horizontal ‘D’ is visible beneath the standard ‘D’, resulting from a die misalignment during production.
6. 1955 D Over S Jefferson Nickel: This coin exhibits a ‘D’ mint mark stamped over an ‘S’, a minting anomaly that enhances its value.
7. 1939 Doubled Monticello Jefferson Nickel: Features doubling on the Monticello building on the reverse side, a rare error that attracts collector interest.
8. 1964 Special Mint Set Jefferson Nickel: Part of a special mint set with a high-quality finish and full steps on Monticello, making it a rare and valuable find.
9. 1950-D Jefferson Nickel: With the lowest mintage of all Jefferson nickels, this coin is highly sought after, especially in uncirculated condition.

Identifying Valuable Nickels

To determine if a nickel in your possession is valuable, consider the following steps:

• Examine the Date and Mint Mark: Look for the specific years and mint marks listed above.
• Inspect for Errors: Use a magnifying glass to check for doubling, overdates, or other anomalies.
• Assess the Condition: Coins in better condition (minimal wear and clear details) are generally more valuable.
• Consult a Professional: If you believe you’ve found a rare nickel, consult a reputable coin dealer or grading service for an accurate assessment.

While the chances of finding these rare nickels in everyday circulation are slim, it’s not impossible. Being aware of these valuable coins and knowing what to look for can turn an ordinary coin hunt into a potentially profitable endeavor. Always handle coins carefully and consider professional appraisal for any suspected valuable finds.

FAQs

What makes a nickel valuable?

Factors such as rarity, minting errors, historical significance, and condition contribute to a nickel’s value.

How can I tell if my nickel is rare?

Check the date, mint mark, and look for any errors or unique features. Consulting a coin reference guide can provide additional insights.

Where can I sell a rare nickel?

Rare coins can be sold through coin dealers, auctions, or online marketplaces specializing in numismatics.

Should I clean my old nickels to increase their value?

No, cleaning coins can reduce their value. It’s best to keep them in their original condition.

Are there other valuable nickels not listed here?

Yes, several other nickels are valuable due to various factors. Researching and consulting with experts can provide a more comprehensive understanding.