Nickel coins have been a staple of American currency for over a century, but some seemingly ordinary coins are worth far more than their face value. A select few nickels in circulation today are valued at an astonishing USD 1 million each. These rare coins have become the holy grail for collectors, not only because of their monetary value but also because of their historical significance and unique features. This blog post will explore the most valuable nickel coins still in circulation, highlighting why they are worth so much and what makes them unique.
List of the Most Valuable Nickel Coins Still in Circulation
| Rank | Coin Description | Year | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1913 Liberty Head V Nickel | 1913 | $5 Million |
| 2 | 1918/7-D Buffalo Nickel | 1918 | $1.5 Million |
| 3 | 1942-D Over Horizontal D Jefferson Nickel | 1942 | $1.2 Million |
| 4 | 1937-D 3-Legged Buffalo Nickel | 1937 | $1 Million |
| 5 | 1926-S Buffalo Nickel | 1926 | $1 Million |
| 6 | 1916 Doubled Die Obverse Buffalo Nickel | 1916 | $1 Million |
| 7 | 1943-P Jefferson Nickel (War Nickel) | 1943 | $1 Million |
1913 Liberty Head V Nickel – $5 Million
The 1913 Liberty Head V Nickel is one of American history’s most famous and valuable coins. Only five examples of this coin exist, and they were produced under mysterious circumstances. The U.S. Mint never officially released the coin, making it a mystery in numismatics. The 1913 Liberty Head V Nickel is so rare and sought after that it has fetched prices as high as $5 million at auction, making it the most valuable nickel ever.
1918/7-D Buffalo Nickel – $1.5 Million
The 1918/7-D Buffalo Nickel is an error coin that occurred when a 1917 die was improperly punched with the 1918 date. This resulted in a distinctive overdate, with the “7” clearly visible beneath the “8.” The rarity of this error, combined with the popularity of the Buffalo Nickel series, makes the 1918/7-D Buffalo Nickel worth an estimated $1.5 million in top-grade condition. It is a prized possession for any serious collector.
1942-D Over Horizontal D Jefferson Nickel – $1.2 Million
The 1942-D Over Horizontal D Jefferson Nickel is another error coin that has captured the attention of collectors. This coin features a “D” mintmark mistakenly struck horizontally before being corrected to a vertical position. The rarity of this error, along with the historical significance of the wartime nickels, makes this coin worth an estimated $1.2 million. Its unique feature and rarity make it one of the most valuable Jefferson Nickels ever produced.
1937-D 3-Legged Buffalo Nickel – $1 Million
The 1937-D 3-Legged Buffalo Nickel is one of American history’s most famous error coins. Due to excessive die polishing, the front leg of the buffalo on the reverse of the coin was almost entirely removed, leaving it with only three legs. This error was discovered shortly after the coins were released, making it a rare and valuable find. The 1937-D 3-Legged Buffalo Nickel can be worth up to $1 million in top condition, making it a coveted piece among collectors.
1926-S Buffalo Nickel – $1 Million
The 1926-S Buffalo Nickel is one of the lowest mintage coins in the Buffalo Nickel series, with only 970,000 examples produced. Finding one in mint condition is extremely rare, and collectors will pay top dollar for this key-date coin. The 1926-S Buffalo Nickel can be worth up to $1 million, especially in uncirculated condition, making it one of the most valuable nickels still in circulation.
1916 Doubled Die Obverse Buffalo Nickel – $1 Million
The 1916 Doubled Die Obverse Buffalo Nickel is another highly prized error coin. The doubling on the obverse is most noticeable in the date and the word “Liberty,” creating a striking visual effect. This error occurred during the minting process and is extremely rare, with only a few known examples. The 1916 Doubled Die Obverse Buffalo Nickel is valued at around $1 million, making it a sought-after piece for collectors of rare error coins.
1943-P Jefferson Nickel (War Nickel) – $1 Million
The 1943-P Jefferson Nickel, also known as the War Nickel, was produced during World War II when the U.S. Mint used a silver alloy to conserve nickel for the war effort. While most War Nickels are not particularly valuable, certain high-grade examples with full steps (a term used to describe the clarity of the steps on Monticello on the reverse) can be worth up to $1 million. These coins are a unique piece of American history and a valuable addition to any collection.
FAQ
What makes a nickel coin valuable?
The value of a nickel coin is determined by factors such as rarity, minting errors, historical significance, and the coin’s condition. Coins with unique features, low mintage, or errors are typically more valuable.
How can I determine if my nickel coin is valuable?
A professional service like PCGS or NGC can grade your nickel coin to determine its value. These services evaluate the coin’s condition and look for rare features or errors that could boost its value.
Are all old nickels valuable?
Not all old nickels are valuable. While some older nickels can be worth more than face value, the most valuable nickels typically have rare dates, minting errors, or are in exceptional condition.
What should I do if I think I have a rare nickel coin?
If you believe you have a rare nickel coin, it’s advisable to have it appraised by a professional. They can help you determine its value and advise you on the best way to sell it, whether through auction, private sale, or a coin dealer.
Why are some nickels worth $1 million or more?
Some nickels are worth $1 million or more due to their extreme rarity, unique minting errors, and historical significance. These factors make them highly desirable among collectors, driving their value to extraordinary levels.
References
- “The Most Valuable Nickels: A List of Nickels Worth Money” – PCGS CoinFacts
- “Top 10 Most Valuable Nickels” – The Spruce Crafts
- “Nickel Values Guide” – NGC Coin Explorer
