Collecting rare nickels isn’t just a fun hobby—it’s like holding a small piece of history. Some nickels are so special and valuable that they sell for jaw-dropping amounts at auctions.
Let’s dive into the top 10 rarest and most valuable nickels, each with its own fascinating story.
1. 1913 Liberty Head V Nickel
This is one of the rarest coins in U.S. history, with only five known examples. Its mysterious origins and incredible rarity make it a prized collectible.
Value: Sold for $4.56 million in 2018.
2. 1918/7-D Buffalo Nickel
This coin is a famous “overdate” error. A die meant for 1917 was over-engraved with 1918, creating this unique coin minted in Denver.
Value: Highly valuable, especially in mint condition.
3. 1926-S Buffalo Nickel
With just 970,000 coins made, this is one of the rarest Buffalo Nickels. Most were heavily circulated, making well-preserved ones extremely scarce.
Value: Premium prices for high-quality examples.
4. 1916 Doubled Die Obverse Buffalo Nickel
This error coin shows doubling on the word “LIBERTY” and the Native American’s face. Collectors love it for its unusual appearance.
Value: Error increases value, especially in excellent condition.
5. 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel
A famous error caused by over-polishing the die at the Denver Mint makes this buffalo look like it’s missing a leg.
Value: A must-have for serious collectors.
6. 1924-S Buffalo Nickel
With only 1.4 million coins minted, this nickel is rare due to low production and poor striking quality.
Value: Commands high prices in mint condition.
7. 1885 Liberty Head V Nickel
This coin is a collector’s dream, with only 1.47 million minted. It’s one of the most sought-after coins in the Liberty Head series.
Value: Extremely valuable due to its scarcity.
8. 1912-S Liberty Head V Nickel
This was the first Liberty Head Nickel struck in San Francisco, with only 238,000 coins produced, making it a rare gem.
Value: Dramatically higher in better grades.
9. 1867 Shield Nickel (with Rays)
This nickel’s design included decorative rays, but they were removed after just one year due to die wear issues.
Value: Its unique look makes it a standout in collections.
10. 1942-D Over Horizontal D Jefferson Nickel
A minting error during World War II resulted in a horizontal “D” mint mark corrected later. This error is now highly collectible.
Value: Collectors pay top dollar for pristine examples.
These coins aren’t just small pieces of metal; they’re slices of history that tell stories of minting errors, low production numbers, and design changes. Whether you’re into collecting or investing, these nickels are treasures worth seeking out.
