Nickels are often overlooked in the world of coin collecting, but seasoned numismatists know that some of the rarest and most valuable U.S. coins come in five-cent form. From mysterious mints to legendary errors, these coins carry stories of American history and minting quirks that make them highly desirable. Below, we highlight the top 15 most valuable and rare U.S. nickels that every collector should know.
1. 1913 Liberty Head Nickel
The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel is one of the most famous and enigmatic coins in American numismatics. Only five examples are known to exist, and they were struck under mysterious circumstances after the Liberty Head design was officially discontinued in 1912. These coins have sold for millions of dollars, with one example fetching over $4.5 million at auction. Each coin is named, like “The Olsen Specimen” or “The Walton Specimen,” and collectors consider it a true holy grail.
2. 1867 Shield Nickel with Rays
The 1867 Shield Nickel with Rays was the last year this design featured the decorative rays around the shield. Because the rays caused striking difficulties, they were removed later that year. These nickels are rarer in high grade and are particularly sought after by type collectors. An 1867 With Rays in mint state can command several thousand dollars, depending on condition.
3. 1916 Buffalo Nickel (Doubled Die Obverse)
The 1916 Buffalo Nickel is famous not only for its beautiful design but also for the rare Doubled Die Obverse variety. This error features clear doubling of the date and parts of the profile, making it a standout among collectors. Only a handful of well-preserved examples exist, and values can range from $10,000 to $50,000+ depending on grade.
4. 1926-S Buffalo Nickel
With the lowest mintage of all Buffalo nickels at just 970,000, the 1926-S is a key date in the series. Most surviving examples are heavily worn, so higher-grade coins command a premium. In mint state, this coin can bring in over $100,000, making it a critical piece for completing a high-end Buffalo nickel collection.
5. 1927-S Buffalo Nickel
Though not quite as rare as the 1926-S, the 1927-S Buffalo Nickel is still scarce in high grades due to poor strike quality. It has a relatively low mintage and is especially tough in uncirculated condition. Collectors prize this date, especially those building full sets. Values can exceed $10,000 in MS65 or higher.
6. 1929-S Buffalo Nickel
Another semi-key date, the 1929-S Buffalo Nickel had a mintage of just over 7 million but is elusive in high grade. Many were poorly struck or heavily circulated. Nice examples in MS65 or better are difficult to find, pushing values into the four-figure range.
7. 1938-D Jefferson Nickel
The first year of the Jefferson Nickel series ended with a low-mintage Denver issue. The 1938-D had a mintage of just 5.3 million, and it’s considered a key date in the early Jefferson series. It’s relatively affordable in lower grades but becomes valuable in full steps (FS) condition, reaching $1,000 or more.
8. 1939-D Jefferson Nickel
With only 3.5 million coins minted, the 1939-D is one of the rarest Jefferson Nickels. Its value is significantly higher if the coin exhibits full steps on Monticello, a sign of a sharp strike. These FS specimens can sell for $5,000 to $10,000 or more depending on grade.
9. 1942/1 Overdate Jefferson Nickel
This classic overdate error shows a clear “2” over a “1” in the date and is a standout variety in the Jefferson series. It occurred during the transition to the wartime alloy, making it historically interesting as well. Mint State examples are rare and can fetch $10,000 to $20,000.
10. 1950-D Jefferson Nickel
Though over 2.6 million were struck, most 1950-D Jefferson Nickels were hoarded at the time, making circulated examples common. However, uncirculated and full step versions remain highly sought after. MS66 or FS examples can bring in $1,500 or more at auction.
11. 1955 Jefferson Nickel
The 1955 Jefferson Nickel is scarce in Full Steps condition due to weak strikes. Though not rare in lower grades, coins with strong details and step definition are scarce and can bring in over $5,000 in top condition. It’s a sleeper date for condition-focused collectors.
12. 1956 Jefferson Nickel
Another date where strike quality matters, the 1956 Jefferson Nickel is often found with mushy detail. Full Steps examples are considerably rarer and command a premium. In MS67 FS, values can climb over $3,000.
13. 1957 Jefferson Nickel
This date is often overlooked, but pristine full step examples are rare. The 1957 Jefferson Nickel offers a great challenge for registry collectors, with top-tier pieces selling for $2,000+. It’s a hidden gem in the series.
14. 1964 Special Mint Set (SMS) Jefferson Nickel
In 1964, the U.S. Mint struck a small number of Special Mint Set Jefferson Nickels with unusually sharp strikes and satin-like finishes. These were not officially released, making them quite mysterious and highly collectible. SMS nickels are extremely rare and can bring $10,000+, especially in high grade with full steps.
15. 1971 No Mint Mark Jefferson Nickel
Most 1971 Jefferson Nickels should carry a “D” (Denver) or “S” (San Francisco) mint mark. A small number of Philadelphia-struck coins without a mint mark have been found with sharp strikes and proof-like surfaces, likely errors or test strikes. These nickels can be valuable, especially if authenticated as mint errors, with top specimens selling for $500 to $2,000+.
Conclusion
Nickels might seem like pocket change, but among them are coins worth thousands-even millions-of dollars. Whether it’s a legendary coin like the 1913 Liberty Head or an elusive full steps Jefferson, these nickels offer deep historical and numismatic value. For collectors, they represent a fascinating journey through American coinage, minting history, and the thrill of the hunt. Whether you’re a seasoned expert or just starting out, keeping an eye out for these key dates might just turn your loose change into a fortune.
