The United States nickel is a five-cent coin produced by the U.S. Mint. It is composed of a cupronickel alloy, consisting of 75% copper and 25% nickel. This composition has been the standard for the 5-cent coin since 1866, with a brief exception during World War II. The coin weighs 5.000 grams and has a diameter of 21.21 mm.
The design of the nickel has changed several times throughout its history, starting with the Shield Nickel (1866-1883). This was followed by the Liberty Head or “V” Nickel (1883-1912), which featured Lady Liberty and a Roman numeral “V”. Early versions of the “V” nickel caused confusion due to the lack of the word “cents”. The Buffalo Nickel (1913-1938) depicted a Native American and an American Bison. The current design, the Jefferson Nickel, has been in use since 1938, featuring Thomas Jefferson and Monticello. Special designs were released in 2004 and 2005 to commemorate historical events.
During World War II (1942-1945), “War Nickels” were made from an alloy of copper, silver, and manganese to conserve nickel for the war effort. These can be identified by a large mint mark above Monticello.
While a nickel’s face value is five cents, its metal content can sometimes be worth more, depending on market prices. However, melting down nickels for their metal is illegal in the U.S. Some collectible nickels can be worth significantly more than face value based on factors like type, year, condition, and rarity. Notable rare nickels include the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel and certain error coins. More information is available from the [U.S. Mint website].
What nickel is worth $400?
Good point! The 1885 V-Nickel is the coin that is most sought after by dealers as well as collectors. This coin is considered elusive and difficult to obtain. Even with considerable wear and tear, an 1885 V-Nickel may be worth nearly $400.
Why is a 1964 nickel worth so much today?
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.