The value of a US nickel coin can range from its face value of 5 cents to millions of dollars, depending on its type, condition, and rarity.
- Most Common: Jefferson nickels minted after 1964 are generally worth only their face value of five cents, although some uncirculated or key date coins can be worth slightly more to collectors.
- Wartime Nickels: Jefferson nickels minted between late 1942 and 1945 contain a significant amount of silver (35%) and are identifiable by a large mint mark (P, D, or S) above the depiction of Monticello on the reverse. These “War Nickels” are worth more than face value, and their value fluctuates with the price of silver. A roll of 40 War Nickels was recently offered for $109.95.
- Older Nickels: Shield Nickels (1866-1883) and Liberty or V Nickels (1883-1913) are generally more valuable than Jefferson Nickels. Heavily worn Shield Nickels can be worth $25-50, and higher-graded coins can be worth thousands. Most circulated Liberty nickels are worth a few dollars, while uncirculated versions can range from $100 to $250.
- Key Dates and Rarities: Certain dates and mint marks are highly sought after by collectors, with some extremely rare specimens fetching substantial sums. For instance:
– The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel is famously rare, with one selling for a reported $5 million.
– The 1916-P DDO Buffalo Nickel can be worth $66,000-$155,000.
– The 1867 Type 1 Proof Shield Nickel is valued at approximately $40,000.
– Other valuable key dates and varieties exist for Shield, Liberty, and Jefferson nickels, as listed in and.
- Melt Value: The metal content of a nickel, which is 75% copper and 25% nickel, currently exceeds its face value. According to Barron’s, the melt value is about eight cents. However, it is important to note that the US Mint prohibits melting down nickels and pennies for their metal value.
It’s worth noting that evaluating the precise value of a specific nickel can be complex and may require the expertise of a professional coin grading service, especially for rare or older coins.
What years of nickels have value?
Thanks for asking. 1945-P Doubled Die Reverse – $18,800. …
1943-P Doubled Eye – $10,200. …
1943-P 3 Over 2 – $16,450. …
1997-P Special Uncirculated – $1,725. …
1937-D Buffalo Nickel Three Legs – $99,875. …
1927-S Buffalo Nickel – $250,000. …
1936-D Buffalo Nickel Three-and-a-Half Legs – $132,000.
Why are 1964 nickels worth money?
I can help with that. For collectors, the 1964 nickel holds deep numismatic value as the last coin of its kind before the sweeping changes brought about by the 1965 Coinage Act. The coin’s familiar design—the iconic portrait of Thomas Jefferson on the obverse and the historic Monticello building on the reverse—adds to its timeless appeal.