9 Valuable American Nickels in Circulation

American nickels have long been a staple of U.S. currency, with many varieties being highly sought after by coin collectors. Among the most valuable are those that feature unique errors, rare mints, or historical significance. From the iconic Buffalo Nickel to the Jefferson Nickel series, certain coins have become treasures due to their scarcity and distinctive features.

Whether it’s an overdated coin, a missing leg, or a rare wartime composition, these nickels hold substantial value today. In this blog, we’ll explore 9 of the most valuable American nickels still in circulation, providing insights into their rarity, history, and why they’re worth collecting.

1. 1926-S Buffalo Nickel: $4,200

The 1926-S Buffalo Nickel is one of the rarest coins in circulation today, making it highly valuable to collectors. The coin was minted at the San Francisco Mint and features the iconic buffalo design on the reverse, along with the profile of a Native American on the obverse.

Its value is mainly driven by its low mintage, with only 970,000 coins struck that year. As a result, fewer of these coins have survived in good condition, and those in high grades, particularly MS-65 or higher, can fetch up to $4,200 or more at auctions. The 1926-S Buffalo Nickel’s scarcity and its historical significance make it a prized item for numismatists, especially those focusing on early 20th-century American coins.

2. 1916 Double Die Buffalo Nickel: $3,800

The 1916 Double Die Buffalo Nickel is a unique variety that has caught the attention of coin collectors due to its noticeable double strike error. This particular error occurs when a coin is struck twice during the minting process, resulting in a doubled image on the coin’s design.

In the case of the 1916 Buffalo Nickel, the doubled features can be seen in the date and the Native American’s hair on the obverse, and in the buffalo’s features on the reverse. Only a few specimens of the 1916 Double Die Buffalo Nickel are known to exist, making it extremely rare and valuable, with prices reaching $3,800 or more depending on its condition. Its distinctive error and historical value make it a standout coin in the Buffalo Nickel series.

3. 1918/17-D Buffalo Nickel (Overdated): $3,500

The 1918/17-D Buffalo Nickel is a rare overdate variety where the 1917 date is clearly visible beneath the 1918 date. This occurred due to leftover dies being used in the minting process, where the previous year’s die (1917) was reused to strike the 1918 coins, leaving behind the remnants of the 1917 date.

This overdating error is a significant finding for collectors, especially when the coin is in good condition. The 1918/17-D Buffalo Nickel has become a highly sought-after variety, with some specimens fetching as much as $3,500. The rarity of this coin, along with its unique error, makes it a valuable addition to any collection of early 20th-century American nickels.

4. 1879 Shield Nickel: $2,400

The 1879 Shield Nickel is a rare and highly valued coin due to its historical significance and low mintage. Produced during the late 19th century, the Shield Nickel was part of the first series of five-cent coins produced by the U.S. Mint, and the 1879 issue stands out as one of the most coveted among collectors.

The coin features a shield on the obverse, symbolizing the strength and protection of the United States, and a simple “V” for five on the reverse. The 1879 Shield Nickel is particularly sought after because of its low mintage and the fact that many of these coins were worn down or melted down over time. In excellent condition, the coin can fetch prices as high as $2,400, making it a top pick for collectors of American numismatics.

5. 1937-D 3-Legged Buffalo Nickel: $2,000

The 1937-D 3-Legged Buffalo Nickel is one of the most famous error coins in American numismatics. This coin features a striking error where the buffalo on the reverse is missing its front right leg, a result of a die malfunction at the Denver Mint. Only a small number of these 3-legged nickels were produced, and those that survived are highly sought after by collectors.

The rarity of this error, combined with its distinctive and easily recognizable feature, has caused the coin’s value to soar, with specimens in good condition often fetching around $2,000. This nickel remains a must-have for serious collectors due to its fascinating backstory and the visual anomaly that sets it apart from other Buffalo Nickels.

6. 1880 Shield Nickel: $2,000

The 1880 Shield Nickel is another rare coin that holds significant value among collectors. This particular coin belongs to the Shield Nickel series, which was introduced in 1866 as the first official five-cent piece in the U.S. The 1880 issue is particularly valuable due to its limited mintage and the overall wear these coins endured over time.

Shield Nickels were used extensively during the late 19th century, and many were either lost or melted down, leaving only a few in good condition. In particular, the 1880 Shield Nickel stands out for its intricate design, featuring a shield on the obverse and a large “V” on the reverse. Coins in excellent condition can reach up to $2,000, making it a prized coin for numismatists.

7. 1942-P Jefferson Nickel: $800

The 1942-P Jefferson Nickel is another valuable coin, largely due to its distinctive wartime composition. In 1942, due to shortages of nickel during World War II, the U.S. Mint altered the composition of the Jefferson Nickel to include 35% silver, with the remaining 65% made up of copper.

This change made the 1942-P Jefferson Nickel stand out as a unique piece in the Jefferson series. While many of these coins were produced, their silver content and historical context give them added value today. A coin in good condition can command prices of up to $800, particularly in uncirculated or higher grades. Its value is driven not only by its silver content but also by the historical significance of the wartime era.

8. 1950-D Jefferson Nickel: $600-$800

The 1950-D Jefferson Nickel is a rare variety that is highly prized by collectors due to its low mintage. The Denver Mint produced a relatively small number of these coins in 1950, leading to a scarcity of this particular variety. As a result, the 1950-D Jefferson Nickel has become one of the most sought-after coins in the Jefferson series.

While the coin is not as rare as some of the other entries on this list, its scarcity in high-quality condition still makes it a valuable find for collectors. Prices for the 1950-D Jefferson Nickel can range from $600 to $800, depending on its grade and condition, making it a worthy addition to any collection focused on mid-20th-century U.S. coins.

9. 1939 “Doubled Monticello”: $500

The 1939 “Doubled Monticello” is an error coin that occurs when the Monticello building on the reverse of the Jefferson Nickel is struck twice, resulting in a doubled image. This error is especially noticeable in the columns and the roof of the Monticello building, making it easy for collectors to spot.

The doubled strike error occurred during the minting process, leading to a small number of these coins being produced. While not as rare as some of the other entries on this list, the 1939 Doubled Monticello is still highly valuable, with well-preserved examples fetching around $500. Its distinctive error makes it a popular coin for collectors interested in minting flaws and unique varieties in U.S. coinage.

Bottom Line

Coin collectors and investors alike appreciate the historical and monetary value of rare American nickels. Whether you’re a seasoned numismatist or a newcomer to coin collecting, these 9 valuable nickels provide an exciting glimpse into American coinage. By understanding their unique features and rare varieties, you can better appreciate the legacy these coins hold and possibly even discover one in your own pocket change!

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