For coin collectors, error coins are often the holy grail. These coins, created by mistake during the minting process, can be worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Among the most coveted error coins are those made from nickels.
These coins are widely circulated, but when they contain an error, their value can skyrocket. If you’re lucky enough to come across one of these rare nickels, you could be holding a valuable piece of history. Here, we dive into 14 of the most valuable nickel error coins and explore why they’re worth so much.
1. 1913 Liberty Head Nickel
The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel is the most famous and sought-after nickel error coin. Only five are known to exist, and it’s considered one of the most valuable coins in U.S. history.
In 2003, one of these rare coins was sold for $3.7 million. The coin was mistakenly struck after the Liberty Head design was supposed to have been replaced by the Buffalo Nickel, making this a one-of-a-kind find.
2. 1942/1 Mercury Dime Overdate
While technically a dime, the 1942/1 Mercury Dime is often associated with valuable nickel error coins. This coin features an overdate where the “1” from 1941 was still visible under the “2,” making it an overstrike error. The 1942/1 Mercury Dime can fetch between $1,000 and $4,000, depending on the coin’s condition.
3. 1950-D Jefferson Nickel
The 1950-D Jefferson Nickel is valuable because it was supposed to have been produced in higher numbers but had a very low mintage, making it rare. In addition to its rarity, some 1950-D nickels were produced with a doubled die error, further increasing their value. These can be worth anywhere from $1,500 to $5,000.
4. 1971 No-S Proof Nickel
A missing mintmark error occurred in 1971 when the U.S. Mint accidentally left the “S” mintmark off some proof nickels. This was a rare mistake, and today, these coins can be valued at around $2,000 or more. A flawless example of this coin could fetch up to $4,000 in top condition.
5. 1947-D Jefferson Nickel with Double Die Obverse
The 1947-D Jefferson Nickel with a double die obverse is another sought-after error coin. The doubling of the date and letters on the obverse was caused by the die being improperly struck. Coins with this error can fetch up to $1,500, with higher values for better-preserved specimens.
6. 1964-D Peace Dollar Nickel
Some 1964-D Peace Dollar Nickels were mistakenly struck using Peace Dollar dies, resulting in a distinctive error. This rare misstriking has led to some 1964-D nickels being worth around $500 to $2,000, depending on their quality.
7. 1998 Wide AM Reverse Jefferson Nickel
The 1998 Wide AM Reverse Jefferson Nickel is another coin that commands attention among collectors. This error coin features a large gap between the “A” and “M” in “AMERICA,” which is not present on most regular 1998 nickels. Depending on its condition, this error coin can be valued at around $500 to $1,000.
8. 2004-D Jefferson Nickel with Clipped Planchet
This coin has an error in which part of the nickel was clipped during the minting process, making it a unique find for collectors. These nickels can sell for upwards of $1,000 depending on their condition and the severity of the clip.
9. 2005 Buffalo Nickel with Die Crack
A 2005 Buffalo Nickel with a die crack across the reverse is an example of a less common but still valuable error. These coins can range in value from $200 to $800, with higher prices for coins with larger, more pronounced cracks.
10. 1943-P Wartime Nickel with Missing Mintmark
During World War II, the U.S. Mint created a special wartime nickel. A few coins from this series are missing the mintmark, making them highly valuable among collectors. These rare nickels can command up to $1,000 or more, depending on condition.
11. 1960 Jefferson Nickel with Raised “D” Mintmark
A raised “D” mintmark error in the 1960 Jefferson Nickel makes this coin unique. The raised mintmark was caused by a die issue, and today, these nickels are worth upwards of $200.
12. 1955-D Jefferson Nickel with Doubled Die Reverse
The 1955-D Jefferson Nickel with a doubled die reverse is another key error coin. The doubling of the lettering and numbers on the reverse makes it an intriguing find. These coins can be valued at around $500, depending on the grade.
13. 1995 Double Die Jefferson Nickel
A double die error was found on some 1995 Jefferson Nickels, where the date and other inscriptions show noticeable doubling. These coins are worth between $100 and $300.
14. 2009 District of Columbia Nickel with Misaligned Die
This error occurred when the die was misaligned, causing the design to appear off-center. Misaligned die coins are highly sought after, and these 2009 District of Columbia Nickels can fetch up to $500.
Conclusion
Finding a rare error coin among your collection can significantly boost its value. The coins mentioned above are some of the most sought-after nickel error coins that can be worth substantial amounts, making them a valuable asset for collectors.
Whether you’re a seasoned numismatist or a beginner, keeping an eye out for these errors could lead to a big payday.
FAQs
An error coin is a coin that was struck with a mistake during the minting process, which can make it unique and valuable to collectors.
Look for unique characteristics, such as misalignments, doubled dates, or missing mintmarks. Consulting a professional numismatist can help confirm if your coin is valuable.
A 1950-D Jefferson Nickel with a doubled die error can be worth between $1,500 and $5,000, depending on its condition.
Yes, 1971 No-S proof nickels are rare and can be worth between $2,000 and $4,000, depending on their condition.
You can sell your error nickels through reputable coin dealers, auction houses, or online marketplaces like eBay, where coin collectors regularly buy and sell rare coins.
