Coin collecting is both a hobby and a potential investment, with some rare and valuable coins capable of fetching astronomical prices at auctions. While everyday coins are typically worth only their face value, some nickels from the past are in a league of their own, attracting collectors and investors alike. Here, we’ll explore some of the most valuable U.S. nickels that have earned their place in history.
The 1913 Liberty Head V Nickel: A Priceless Treasure
This Article Includes
- 1 The 1913 Liberty Head V Nickel: A Priceless Treasure
- 2 The 1918/7-D Buffalo Nickel: A Rare Error Coin
- 3 The 1926-S Buffalo Nickel: A Mint Condition Gem
- 4 The 1867 Shield Nickel with Rays: A Historical Find
- 5 Silver War Nickels: A More Common Yet Valuable Option
- 6 Conclusion: The Value of Rarity and Condition
Among the rarest and most expensive U.S. nickels, the 1913 Liberty Head V Nickel stands at the top. Only five known specimens exist, with three of them privately held by collectors. The uniqueness of this coin has made it a highly sought-after piece in the numismatic world. In fact, one of these rare nickels (graded PR66) was sold for an astonishing $4.56 million in 2018, while another (graded PR63) went for $4.2 million in 2022. The significant price difference between the two sales is a testament to how important condition is in determining a coin’s auction value.
The 1918/7-D Buffalo Nickel: A Rare Error Coin
Error coins often fetch high prices, and the 1918/7-D Buffalo Nickel is a prime example. This rare error occurred when a coin originally struck with a 1917 date was re-stamped with the 1918 date, leaving the “7” visible underneath. While finding such an error coin in circulation is nearly impossible today, one lucky collector did manage to secure a finer example of this coin, which sold for $350,750 in 2006. Adjusting for inflation, this sale would amount to $549,202 in 2024, proving just how valuable such coins can be.
The 1926-S Buffalo Nickel: A Mint Condition Gem
The 1926-S Buffalo Nickel is another rare and valuable piece of U.S. coinage. Minted in San Francisco with only 970,000 examples produced, the 1926-S variety is far scarcer than its counterparts from other mints, which had mintages in the millions. A particularly well-preserved example (graded MS66) sold for $322,000 at a 2008 Bowers and Merena auction. Adjusted for inflation, this amount would be equivalent to $472,096 in 2024, illustrating the high demand for well-preserved rarities.
The 1867 Shield Nickel with Rays: A Historical Find
The 1867 Shield Nickel with Rays is a key date in the series of Shield nickels, which were minted from 1866 to 1883. The 1867 coin is especially significant due to an error in production: some coins were accidentally struck with rays surrounding the numeral 5 on the reverse, while most coins of this year had the rays removed. These rare examples are highly prized among collectors. One such coin, graded PR66 by NGC, was sold for $132,250 at a Heritage Auctions sale in 2004. In today’s market, this coin would be valued at approximately $220,998.
Silver War Nickels: A More Common Yet Valuable Option
While many of the rarest and most valuable U.S. nickels hail from the late 19th and early 20th centuries, some more recent examples still hold notable value. The silver war nickels minted between 1942 and 1945 are one such example. These nickels were made with a composition of 35% silver, making them worth more than face value, especially when the price of silver is high. Collectors should also keep an eye out for shield nickels, which can start at around $16 in value, depending on condition and rarity.
Conclusion: The Value of Rarity and Condition
The world of coin collecting is fascinating, and the value of a nickel can depend on several factors, including rarity, condition, and historical significance. Coins like the 1913 Liberty Head V Nickel and the 1918/7-D Buffalo Nickel can fetch millions at auction, while others, like the 1926-S Buffalo Nickel and 1867 Shield Nickel with Rays, remain highly desirable among collectors. Whether you are a casual collector or an investor looking to make a profitable purchase, understanding the rarity and unique qualities of these coins can help you appreciate their immense value in the world of numismatics.