Top 11 Most Expensive Nickels – Nickels may seem like an unassuming part of everyday pocket change, but beneath their humble appearance lies a world of numismatic treasures. For collectors, nickels represent not only a piece of American history but also a chance to own some of the rarest and most valuable coins ever minted. From minting errors to low-production runs, certain nickels have achieved legendary status in the coin-collecting community.
In this article, we explore the top 11 most expensive nickels every collector should aspire to own, delving into their histories, rarity, and the factors that make them so desirable.
1. 1913 Liberty Head Nickel
No list of valuable nickels would be complete without mentioning the infamous 1913 Liberty Head nickel. Only five examples are known to exist, making it one of the rarest and most coveted coins in the world.
The mystery surrounding its creation adds to its allure—official records indicate that the U.S. Mint transitioned to the Buffalo nickel design in 1913, yet somehow these Liberty Head nickels were struck. One specimen, graded Proof-66 by PCGS, sold for over $4.5 million in 2021, cementing its place as one of the most expensive coins ever sold.
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2. 1916 Doubled Die Obverse Nickel
The 1916 doubled die obverse nickel is another extraordinary rarity. This error occurred when the die used to strike the coin was misaligned during production, resulting in visible doubling on the date and inscriptions.
With fewer than 100 examples believed to exist, this nickel commands astronomical prices at auction. A high-grade specimen can easily fetch six figures, making it a must-have for serious collectors.
3. 1867 Shield Nickel with Rays
The Shield nickel series introduced in 1866 initially featured rays between the stars on the reverse side. However, due to striking difficulties, the rays were removed after just one year, making the 1867 Shield nickel with rays exceptionally scarce.
Collectors prize this coin for its unique design and historical significance. High-grade examples often sell for tens of thousands of dollars, reflecting their desirability.
4. 1885 Proof Shield Nickel
Proof coins are specially minted for collectors, featuring sharp details and mirror-like surfaces. The 1885 proof Shield nickel stands out due to its extremely low mintage of just 3,790 pieces. Many of these coins were carefully preserved, allowing them to survive in excellent condition.
Today, pristine examples command significant premiums, with prices exceeding $50,000 for top-tier specimens.
5. 1926-S Buffalo Nickel
The Buffalo nickel series, introduced in 1913, is beloved for its iconic depiction of a Native American profile on the obverse and a buffalo on the reverse. The 1926-S issue, minted in San Francisco, is particularly scarce, with a mintage of only 970,000.
Its low survival rate in uncirculated condition makes it a prized addition to any collection. Well-preserved examples routinely sell for thousands of dollars.
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6. 1918/7-D Buffalo Nickel Overdate
One of the most fascinating varieties in the Buffalo nickel series is the 1918/7-D overdate. This error occurred when a Denver Mint employee reused a 1917 die and attempted to re-engrave it with “1918.”
Close inspection reveals traces of the original “7” beneath the “8.” With fewer than 100 known examples, this overdate is a true rarity. Even circulated specimens are highly sought after, while high-grade examples can exceed $100,000.
7. 1936-D 3-Legged Buffalo Nickel
Another iconic variety within the Buffalo nickel series is the 1936-D 3-legged nickel. This error resulted from excessive polishing of the reverse die, which partially erased one of the buffalo’s legs.
Despite its obvious flaw, the coin gained immense popularity among collectors. High-grade examples are exceedingly rare, with prices often reaching five figures.
8. 1914-S Buffalo Nickel
The 1914-S Buffalo nickel is another key date in the series, with a mintage of just 1,250,000. Produced at the San Francisco Mint, these coins saw heavy circulation, leaving few survivors in pristine condition.
Collectors eagerly seek out high-grade examples, which can fetch upwards of $20,000 or more depending on their state of preservation.
9. 1916 Buffalo Nickel
While not as rare as some other dates in the series, the 1916 Buffalo nickel holds special significance as the first year of the type. Coins minted in Philadelphia (without a mintmark) had a relatively low mintage of 63,498, making them challenging to find in uncirculated condition.
Top-quality specimens regularly trade hands for thousands of dollars, appealing to both novice and experienced collectors.
10. 1912-S Buffalo Nickel
The 1912-S Buffalo nickel is another standout from the early years of the series. Minted in San Francisco, it boasts a mintage of 2,105,000, which is modest by modern standards. Survivors in high grades are scarce, driving up demand and value. A well-preserved example can easily command several thousand dollars at auction.
11. 1886 Shield Nickel
Rounding out our list is the 1886 Shield nickel, a classic favorite among collectors. While not the rarest Shield nickel, its attractive design and availability in higher grades make it a popular choice.
The 1886 issue is notable for its relatively low mintage of 10,201 business strikes, ensuring steady interest from enthusiasts. Choice examples often sell for thousands of dollars, reflecting their enduring appeal.
What Makes These Nickels So Valuable?
Several factors contribute to the extraordinary value of these nickels. First and foremost is their rarity. Many of the coins listed above were produced in limited quantities or feature unique errors that set them apart from standard issues. Additionally, historical context plays a role—some nickels represent pivotal moments in U.S. coinage, such as the transition from the Shield nickel to the Buffalo nickel.
Condition is another critical factor. Coins that survived decades of circulation in near-perfect condition are inherently rarer and more valuable than those showing signs of wear. Professional grading services like PCGS and NGC assess coins based on their condition, assigning numerical grades that directly impact their market value.
Finally, provenance and storytelling add intangible value. Coins with fascinating backstories, such as the 1913 Liberty Head nickel, capture the imagination of collectors and historians alike, elevating their worth beyond mere metal content.
Conclusion
Nickels may occupy a modest corner of your wallet, but they hold immense potential for collectors seeking rare and valuable treasures. From the elusive 1913 Liberty Head nickel to the quirky 1936-D 3-legged Buffalo nickel, each coin tells a story of craftsmanship, history, and human error. Owning even one of these top 11 most expensive nickels represents a remarkable achievement in the world of numismatics.
Whether you’re drawn to the thrill of discovery or the joy of preserving a slice of American heritage, collecting nickels offers endless opportunities for exploration and fulfillment. So grab your magnifying glass, polish your coin albums, and embark on the journey of a lifetime—one nickel at a time.
