Are you a fan of Thomas Jefferson and want to collect nickels? If so, you might wonder if nickels are worth collecting. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to expand your collection, our list of 2009 nickel errors can help you find valuable Jefferson nickels. The nickel is often overlooked by collectors who prefer more famous coins like the Washington quarter or Lincoln penny. The good news is that with less competition, you can build a fantastic nickel collection without spending too much money.
Understanding Nickels
Circulated Jefferson nickels are only worth their face value, and even uncirculated versions are usually affordable. If you want to add valuable nickels to your collection, consider focusing on error coins. Error coins can be worth a lot of money if you know how to spot them. In this article, we’ll explore some of the most valuable 2009 nickel errors worth collecting.
1. 2009-P MS61 Jefferson Nickel Missing Clad Layer Error
One interesting error you might find in 2009 nickels is the missing clad layer. This error occurs when the coin’s upper clad layer peels off on one or both sides. This happens because of a weak bond between the copper core and the upper layer, often due to impurities during the planchet-making process.
A complete missing clad layer error can be valuable. For example, a collector paid $715 for a 2009-P Jefferson nickel graded MS61 with a missing clad layer error.
2. 2009-D MS65 Jefferson Nickel Reverse Die Cap Error
Another valuable error is the die cap error, which happens when a planchet sticks to the die. This stuck planchet can strike other planchets, creating a cap shape. The coins struck by the stuck planchet are called brockage error coins.
A 2009-D Jefferson nickel graded MS65 with a reverse die cap error sold for $1010 at a 2020 auction.
3. 2009-D MS63 Nickel Double Curved Clipped Planchet Error
The clipped planchet error occurs when part of the coin’s edge is clipped off. This happens when the dies used to cut out planchets overlap with previously cut ones.
One example is a 2009-D Jefferson nickel graded MS63 that sold for $810, making it a great addition to any collection.
4. 2009-P MS65 Off-Center Strike Nickel Error
An off-center strike happens when the design is struck away from the center, usually due to misalignment. A nickel with a 10% off-center strike sold for $600 on eBay.
5. 2009-D MS60 Jefferson Nickel Improperly Annealed Error
Improper annealing occurs when there are errors in the heating and cooling process during minting. This can cause a nickel to change colors, appearing blackish, grey, yellow, orange, or purplish.
A 2009-D Jefferson nickel graded MS60 with an improperly annealed error sold for $515.
6. 2009-P MS63 Jefferson Nickel Die Clash Error
A die clash error occurs when the obverse and reverse dies hit each other without a planchet in between. This can leave faint designs from both sides on the coin. A 2009-P nickel graded MS63 with a die clash error sold for $830.
7. 2009-P MS62 Broad-Struck Jefferson Nickel Error
A broad-struck error happens when the planchet is struck outside the collar. This can create a wider coin with a thinner edge. A 2009-P Jefferson nickel graded MS62 with a broad-struck error sold for $1040 at auction.
8. 2009-D MS60 Jefferson Nickel Doubled Die Error
A doubled die error occurs when the die strikes the planchet at slightly different angles, creating a doubling effect. A 2009-D nickel graded MS60 with a strong doubled die error sold for $410.
9. 2009-P MS64 Jefferson Nickel Grease Strike Through Error
A grease strike-through error happens when a foreign object, like grease, gets between the die and planchet, leaving a weak impression. A 2009-P nickel graded MS64 with this error sold for $630.
Conclusion
Collecting Jefferson nickels can be rewarding because there is less competition compared to other popular U.S. coins. Our list of 2009 nickel errors shows that these coins can hold great historical and sentimental value. Collecting errors can help you find high-value nickels without spending too much money. With just a little knowledge, you can start building an impressive collection of 2009 nickel errors that are worth something special.
Table: 2009 Nickel Errors and Their Values
| Error Type | Grading | Sold Price |
|---|---|---|
| Missing Clad Layer | MS61 | $715 |
| Reverse Die Cap | MS65 | $1,010 |
| Double Curved Clipped Planchet | MS63 | $810 |
| Off-Center Strike | MS65 | $600 |
| Improperly Annealed | MS60 | $515 |
| Die Clash | MS63 | $830 |
| Broad-Struck | MS62 | $1,040 |
| Doubled Die | MS60 | $410 |
| Grease Strike Through | MS64 | $630 |
FAQ’s
What are nickel error coins?
Nickel error coins are coins that have mistakes made during their minting process. These errors can make them more valuable than regular nickels.
How can I find valuable nickel errors?
You can find valuable nickel errors by searching through your coin collection or checking online auction sites to see if there are any listed.
Are all 2009 nickels worth collecting?
Not all 2009 nickels are worth collecting. However, specific error coins can be very valuable and are worth keeping an eye out for.