If you have a handful of old nickels lying around, now is the time to dig them out. Some of these coins are selling for as much as $17,500, and you do not need to be a professional collector to spot one. With just a little bit of knowledge, you could turn a dusty coin into a serious payday.
The truth is, certain nickels minted decades ago have become rare collectibles. Whether it is because of minting errors, limited production runs, or historical significance, these coins are now incredibly valuable.
Which Nickels should I look for in my spare change?
Let us get straight to it. Here are a few key nickels you should be on the lookout for:
- 1913 Liberty Head Nickel – This one is extremely rare. Only five are known to exist, and one sold for over $4 million at auction. While it is unlikely you will find this in pocket change, it is worth knowing.
- 1942-D Over Horizontal D Nickel – Look closely at the mint mark. This Denver-minted nickel has a horizontal “D” underneath the regular “D.” Some have sold for more than $1,000 depending on the condition.
- 1937-D 3-Legged Buffalo Nickel – This one is famous for a minting error where the front leg of the buffalo is missing. If you spot one of these, you could be looking at $2,000 to $5,000 or more.
- 1964 Nickel with Special Strike – Most 1964 nickels are common, but a few were struck with proof-like finishes. If you have one in pristine condition, it could be worth up to $8,750, or even $17,500 in rare cases.
How do I know if my Nickel is valuable?
You do not need fancy tools. Just grab a magnifying glass and start checking for these signs:
- Mint marks – Look under the year on the coin’s front.
- Striking errors – Anything that looks off, like missing details or double images.
- Unusual shine or detail – Proof or special strike nickels look sharper and glossier.
If you think you have something special, get it evaluated by a coin dealer or grading service. You can even find online forums where collectors will help you out for free.
Where can I sell rare Nickels?
Once you have confirmed that your nickel is valuable, selling it is easier than you think. You can:
- Visit local coin shops
- Post it on online marketplaces like eBay
- Use professional auction houses for high-end coins
Collectors are always on the hunt for rare nickels, and demand is especially high for unique pieces with verified authenticity.
Why are some Nickels so valuable?
It all comes down to rarity and condition. Coins with minting errors, limited production runs, or historical significance tend to attract high interest. Even a common coin in mint condition can bring in surprising offers.
