If you have a habit of saving loose change or collecting old coins, you might be sitting on a fortune. Some rare nickels have proven to be worth well over $1 million, making them life-changing finds for collectors and everyday people alike. Let’s dive into 9 rare nickels that could potentially turn your pocket change into a treasure trove.
1. 1913 Liberty Head Nickel
This nickel is one of the most coveted coins in U.S. history. Only five of these coins are known to exist, and each one is worth millions. With a mysterious past, it’s a coin that collectors dream of owning.
2. 1937-D Buffalo Nickel (Three-Legged)
A minting error caused this coin to become a rarity. The 1937-D Buffalo Nickel, also known as the “three-legged” variety, was struck incorrectly at the Denver Mint. Today, it is a highly valuable collectible, with prices reaching into the hundreds of thousands or more.
3. 1918/7-D Buffalo Nickel
This overdate coin is another standout rarity in the nickel world. The 1918/7-D Buffalo Nickel was struck with two different dates, making it a highly sought-after piece. Collectors are willing to pay top dollar for a well-preserved example.
4. 1926-S Buffalo Nickel
With a low mintage of only 970,000, the 1926-S Buffalo Nickel is rare, especially in high grades. This coin has the potential to be worth over $100,000 in top condition, making it a valuable addition to any collection.
5. 1916 Doubled Die Obverse Buffalo Nickel
This rare error coin is recognized by the doubling on the date and part of the word “Liberty.” Only a handful of these coins exist, and they can command high prices in the coin market, often over $100,000.
6. 1880 Shield Nickel
Though it might not look like much, this coin is one of the rarest Shield Nickels out there. With a mintage of only 16,000, finding one in excellent condition can be a million-dollar opportunity for collectors.
7. 1942-D Over Horizontal D Jefferson Nickel
This rare variety of the 1942-D Jefferson Nickel has a unique minting error where the “D” mintmark was stamped over a horizontal “D.” As a result, collectors prize these coins for their rarity, and they can fetch impressive sums at auctions.
| Coin Name | Year | Mintage | Estimated Value Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1913 Liberty Head Nickel | 1913 | 5 Known | $4 Million – $5 Million |
| 1937-D Buffalo (Three-Legged) | 1937 | Unknown | $100,000 – $1 Million |
| 1918/7-D Buffalo Nickel | 1918/7 | Unknown | $100,000 – $500,000 |
| 1926-S Buffalo Nickel | 1926 | 970,000 | $50,000 – $300,000 |
| 1916 Doubled Die Buffalo | 1916 | Rare | $50,000 – $200,000 |
| 1880 Shield Nickel | 1880 | 16,000 | $100,000 – $1 Million |
| 1942-D Over Horizontal D | 1942 | Rare | $10,000 – $150,000 |
While it’s not every day you come across such valuable coins, the chance remains that a rare nickel is hiding in your coin collection. These valuable finds have made collectors and lucky discoverers fortunes over the years. Keeping an eye out for these coins could literally change your life.
FAQs
1. How do I know if my nickel is valuable?
Check for unique minting errors, overdates, and low mintages. Having the coin professionally graded can also reveal its true value.
2. What makes a nickel rare?
Rarity is often due to minting errors, low production numbers, or unique historical factors that reduce the number of coins in circulation.
3. Where can I sell a rare nickel?
You can sell rare nickels through coin auctions, coin dealers, or online platforms specializing in rare coins.
4. Are nickels made today valuable?
Most modern nickels aren’t valuable unless they have a rare error or are part of a low-mintage series.
5. Should I clean my rare nickel before selling it?
No, cleaning a rare coin can decrease its value. It’s best to leave it in its original condition.
