The 1964 nickel is one of the most common coins in U.S. circulation, but did you know that some 1964 nickels have minting errors that make them worth much more than face value? These errors can range from minor defects to significant mistakes that can increase the coin’s value to over $10 or even hundreds in some cases. In this guide, we’ll explore the most valuable 1964 nickel errors and how to identify them.
The 1964 Jefferson Nickel was minted in huge quantities to address a coin shortage at the time. With more than 1 billion nickels produced, it may seem like a common coin, but certain error varieties are highly collectible and worth far more than 5 cents. Collectors are always on the lookout for error coins, which are often the result of mistakes made during the minting process.
Let’s take a closer look at the most notable 1964 nickel errors.
1. 1964-D D/D RPM (Repunched Mintmark)
A repunched mintmark (RPM) is a coin that shows the mintmark punched more than once. The 1964-D D/D RPM is a popular error, especially when the doubling of the “D” mintmark is clearly visible. These coins were minted in Denver and are sought after by collectors.
Key Features:
- Mint Location: Denver (D)
- Error: D/D RPM (Repunched Mintmark)
- Value: $10 to $50 (depending on condition)
2. 1964 SMS (Special Mint Set) Nickel
In 1964, the U.S. Mint produced a small number of Special Mint Set (SMS) nickels that were not officially released for public circulation. These nickels are of higher quality than regular circulation coins and are extremely rare.
Key Features:
- Mint Location: Philadelphia (No mintmark)
- Error: Special Mint Set (SMS) production
- Value: Up to $8,000 (depending on condition)
3. 1964-D Full Steps Nickel
A Full Steps nickel is a coin where the steps on Monticello (the building on the reverse of the nickel) are fully visible and not worn down. Full Steps nickels from 1964 are rare because the quality of the coins produced that year was often poor. Finding a 1964-D Full Steps nickel in good condition can dramatically increase its value.
Key Features:
- Mint Location: Denver (D)
- Error: Full Steps
- Value: $20 to $150 (depending on grade)
4. 1964 Nickel Doubled Die Obverse (DDO)
The 1964 Doubled Die Obverse (DDO) nickel is one where parts of the design on the obverse (front) of the coin were accidentally struck twice, resulting in a doubling effect. This is most often seen in the lettering, particularly in the word “LIBERTY” or the date.
Key Features:
- Mint Location: Philadelphia (No mintmark)
- Error: Doubled Die Obverse (DDO)
- Value: $10 to $100 (depending on condition)
5. 1964-D Off-Center Nickel
Off-center strikes are a common error in many coin series, and the 1964-D Nickel is no exception. Off-center errors occur when the coin is not properly aligned during the minting process, resulting in a design that appears shifted to one side. The more off-center the strike, the more valuable the coin.
Key Features:
- Mint Location: Denver (D)
- Error: Off-Center Strike (10%-50%)
- Value: $10 to $75 (depending on degree of off-center strike)
6. 1964 Clipped Planchet Nickel
A clipped planchet error occurs when a portion of the metal disc (planchet) that becomes the coin is accidentally cut off before the coin is struck. These 1964 nickels with clipped planchets are highly collectible and can be worth much more than face value.
Key Features:
- Mint Location: Philadelphia (No mintmark) and Denver (D)
- Error: Clipped Planchet
- Value: $10 to $50 (depending on the size of the clip)
Table of 1964 Nickel Errors
| Coin | Mint Location | Error Type | Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1964-D D/D RPM | Denver (D) | Repunched Mintmark (RPM) | $10 to $50 |
| 1964 SMS Nickel | Philadelphia | Special Mint Set (SMS) | Up to $8,000 |
| 1964-D Full Steps Nickel | Denver (D) | Full Steps | $20 to $150 |
| 1964 Doubled Die Obverse (DDO) | Philadelphia | Doubled Die (Obverse) | $10 to $100 |
| 1964-D Off-Center Nickel | Denver (D) | Off-Center Strike | $10 to $75 |
| 1964 Clipped Planchet Nickel | Philadelphia/Denver | Clipped Planchet | $10 to $50 |
How to Identify a 1964 Nickel Error
Identifying a valuable 1964 nickel is all about spotting the errors. Here’s how to check your coins for these valuable mistakes:
- Look for Mintmarks: Coins minted in Denver will have a small “D” mintmark on the right side of the reverse (back) of the coin. Coins without a mintmark were minted in Philadelphia.
- Check for Doubling: Use a magnifying glass to inspect the lettering and date for any doubling, especially on the obverse side of the coin.
- Examine the Reverse: Look at the steps on Monticello on the reverse side. Full, clear steps can increase the value significantly.
- Check for Off-Center Strikes: If the design on the coin looks like it’s shifted or cut off, you may have an off-center error.
- Look for Clipped Planchets: If part of the coin’s edge looks like it’s missing, it could be a clipped planchet error.
Selling Your 1964 Nickel Errors
If you believe you have a 1964 nickel with one of these errors, here are a few ways to sell your coin:
- Auction Houses: High-value error coins, like the 1964 SMS nickel, are often sold through auction houses, where collectors bid on rare pieces.
- Coin Dealers: Local or online coin dealers can evaluate your nickel and offer a fair price.
- Online Platforms: Websites like eBay allow you to list your error coins and sell them to interested buyers.
- Coin Shows: Attending coin shows can connect you with dealers and collectors who are actively looking for error coins.
Conclusion
If you have a 1964 nickel, it’s worth checking for minting errors that could make your coin much more valuable. From repunched mintmarks to off-center strikes, these coins can sell for over $10 and, in some cases, much more. Be sure to inspect your nickels carefully and consult with a professional coin dealer if you believe you have one of these valuable error coins.
FAQs
What is the most valuable 1964 nickel?
The 1964 SMS Nickel is the most valuable, with prices reaching up to $8,000.
How can I tell if my 1964 nickel is an error coin?
Look for minting errors like repunched mintmarks, doubled die obverses, off-center strikes, or clipped planchets. Using a magnifying glass can help you spot these errors.
Are all 1964 nickels worth more than face value?
No, only those with specific minting errors or rare qualities, like Full Steps or the SMS Nickel, are worth more than face value.
Should I clean my 1964 nickel before selling it?
No, cleaning coins can reduce their value. It’s best to leave the coin in its original condition.
Where can I sell my 1964 nickel errors?
You can sell them through auction houses, coin dealers, online platforms like eBay, or at coin shows.