Nickels might seem like small change, but some are worth a fortune! In this article, we will explore the 50 most valuable nickels ever sold, from the very first U.S. nickel to modern rare finds. Whether you’re a coin collector or just curious, this list showcases some incredible pieces of history and their shocking values.
Understanding the Rarity of Nickels
Coins are not just money; they can also be collectibles. Rarity and demand make certain coins very valuable. In this list, we focus on nickels, especially those that have unique features or limited numbers.
The Most Valuable Nickels Ranked
Here’s a look at the top 50 most valuable nickels based on their auction prices:
| Rank | Nickel Type | Value (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1913 Liberty “V” Nickel | $4,560,000 |
| 2 | 1918/7-D Buffalo Nickel | $350,750 |
| 3 | 1926-S Buffalo Nickel | $322,000 |
| 4 | 1916 Buffalo DDO Nickel | $281,750 |
| 5 | 1880 Shield Nickel | $198,995 |
| 6 | 1913-D Buffalo Type 2 Nickel | $143,750 |
| 7 | 1917-S Buffalo Nickel | $138,000 |
| 8 | 1920-D Buffalo Nickel | $138,000 |
| 9 | 1918-S Buffalo Nickel | $125,350 |
| 10 | 1927-S Buffalo Nickel | $125,350 |
| 11 | 1919-S Buffalo Nickel | $109,250 |
| 12 | 1924-S Buffalo Nickel | $105,750 |
| 13 | 1935 DDR Buffalo Nickel | $104,650 |
| 14 | 1937-D 3 Legs Buffalo Nickel | $99,875 |
| 15 | 1925-S Buffalo Nickel | $87,400 |
| 16 | 1913 Buffalo Type 1 Nickel | $79,313 |
| 17 | 1885 Liberty “V” Nickel | $74,750 |
| 18 | 1926-D Buffalo Nickel | $70,500 |
| 19 | 1923-S Buffalo Nickel | $67,563 |
| 20 | 1886 Liberty “V” Nickel | $64,625 |
| 21 | 1914/3 Buffalo Nickel | $63,250 |
| 22 | 1929 Buffalo Nickel | $63,250 |
| 23 | 1931-S Buffalo Nickel | $63,250 |
| 24 | 1883/2 Shield Nickel | $60,000 |
| 25 | 1925-D Buffalo Nickel | $57,500 |
| 26 | 1935 Buffalo Nickel | $57,500 |
| 27 | 1915-S Buffalo Nickel | $55,813 |
| 28 | 1918 Buffalo Nickel | $55,200 |
| 29 | 1921-S Buffalo Nickel | $51,750 |
| 30 | 1913-S Buffalo Type 2 Nickel | $49,938 |
| 31 | 1914-S Buffalo Nickel | $46,000 |
| 32 | 1927-D Buffalo Nickel | $46,000 |
| 33 | 1928-S Buffalo Nickel | $46,000 |
| 34 | 1920-S Buffalo Nickel | $44,563 |
| 35 | 1924-D Buffalo Nickel | $44,063 |
| 36 | 1867 Shield with Rays Nickel | $41,125 |
| 37 | 1912-D Liberty “V” Nickel | $41,125 |
| 38 | 1914 Buffalo Nickel | $39,550 |
| 39 | 1912-S Liberty “V” Nickel | $37,375 |
| 40 | 1929-S Buffalo Nickel | $36,000 |
| 41 | 1916-S Buffalo Nickel | $35,250 |
| 42 | 1937-D Buffalo Nickel | $35,250 |
| 43 | 1954-S Jefferson Nickel Full Steps | $35,250 |
| 44 | 1935-D Buffalo Nickel | $34,800 |
| 45 | 1938-D Jefferson Nickel Full Steps | $33,600 |
| 46 | 1949-D/S Jefferson Nickel Full Steps | $32,900 |
| 47 | 1914-D Buffalo Nickel | $32,775 |
| 48 | 1913-D Buffalo Type 1 Nickel | $32,200 |
| 49 | 1925 Buffalo Nickel | $32,200 |
| 50 | 1942-D over Horizontal D Jefferson Nickel Full Steps | $32,200 |
Why Some Famous Nickels Didn’t Make the List
It’s surprising to find that many well-known rare nickels didn’t rank among the top 50. For instance, the 1936-D “3 and a Half Legs” Buffalo Nickel, valued at $20,700, and the 1883 “No Cents” Liberty Nickel, valued at $12,075, didn’t reach the $32,000 threshold.
The Popularity of Buffalo Nickels
Buffalo nickels are some of the most popular coins among collectors. This is mainly because there are many examples available in great condition. Their unique design, featuring a Native American and a buffalo, has captured the interest of many collectors for over a century.
Jefferson Nickels: A Different Story
Since its introduction in 1938, over 70 billion Jefferson nickels have been produced, making them less rare. However, certain Jefferson nickels, especially those with “Full Steps” on the reverse, are still highly valued. The rare ones can sell for thousands of dollars, especially if they show clear detail.
Conclusion
Collecting nickels can be a fun and rewarding hobby. The 50 most valuable nickels show us how history, rarity, and demand can greatly affect the value of coins. From the iconic Liberty “V” nickel to various Buffalo nickels, each coin tells a story. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting, knowing about these valuable nickels can help you appreciate their worth. Who knows, you might even find a rare nickel hiding in your pocket!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What makes a nickel valuable?
The value of a nickel is influenced by its rarity, demand, condition, and historical significance. Coins that were produced in limited quantities or have unique features, like errors or special designs, tend to be worth more.
2. How can I tell if my nickel is valuable?
To determine if your nickel is valuable, look for rare dates, mint marks, and any unique characteristics. Consulting a coin expert or using a coin grading guide can help you assess its value.
3. What is the most valuable nickel ever sold?
The most valuable nickel is the 1913 Liberty “V” nickel, which sold for an astounding $4,560,000. Only five of these coins are known to exist, making them extremely rare and highly sought after by collectors.