Have you ever found coins in your pocket and wondered if they could be worth more than their face value? Some old nickels, or five-cent coins, are still circulating in the U.S. and can be worth thousands of dollars. Their value depends on factors like age, design, and condition. Knowing which nickels are worth money can turn your small change into a big treasure!
A Brief History of the Nickel
The five-cent coin, commonly known as a nickel, was first introduced in 1866. Back then, they were called “shield coins” because of the shield design on them. In 1883, the design changed to the Liberty Head nickel, which lasted until 1913. After that, the Buffalo Nickel was minted from 1913 to 1938, showing a Native American on one side and a buffalo on the other. The most common nickel we see today, the Jefferson Nickel, features a portrait of the third U.S. President, Thomas Jefferson. This design has been in use since 1938.
During World War II (1942-45), nickels stopped being made from their usual mix of metals. Instead, they were made with silver and magnesium to save nickel for war materials. Today, modern nickels are made from 75% copper and 25% nickel.
5-Cent Coins That Could Be Worth Thousands
Some nickels, even those that might still be in circulation, are worth much more than their face value. Many collectors are on the lookout for these rare and valuable coins, which can bring in large sums if sold. Below are nine nickels that could be worth anywhere from hundreds to thousands of dollars.
Rare Nickels Worth Big Money
Here are some valuable nickels that could be hiding in your pocket or change jar:
- 1926-S Buffalo Nickel – Worth up to $4,200
- 1916 Double Die Buffalo Nickel – Worth up to $3,800
- 1918/17-D Buffalo Nickel – Worth up to $3,500
- 1879 Shield Nickel – Worth up to $2,400
- 1937-D 3-Legged Buffalo Nickel – Worth up to $2,000
- 1880 Shield Nickel – Worth up to $2,000
- 1942-P Jefferson Nickel – Worth up to $800
- 1950-D Jefferson Nickel – Worth $600 to $800
- 1939 Double Monticello Nickel – Worth up to $500
Keep in mind that the value of these nickels depends heavily on their condition. Coins that are well-preserved or in mint condition tend to fetch higher prices than those that are damaged or worn.
How to Care for Valuable Nickels
If you’re interested in coin collecting or hoping to sell rare nickels, it’s important to learn how to properly care for your coins. Even a little damage can decrease the value of a coin, so keeping them safe in a protective case is a good idea. Avoid cleaning your coins, as this can reduce their value to collectors.
Table of Valuable Nickels Still in Circulation
| Nickel Type | Year | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|
| 1926-S Buffalo Nickel | 1926 | Up to $4,200 |
| 1916 Double Die Buffalo Nickel | 1916 | Up to $3,800 |
| 1918/17-D Buffalo Nickel | 1918/17 | Up to $3,500 |
| 1879 Shield Nickel | 1879 | Up to $2,400 |
| 1937-D 3-Legged Buffalo Nickel | 1937 | Up to $2,000 |
| 1880 Shield Nickel | 1880 | Up to $2,000 |
| 1942-P Jefferson Nickel | 1942 | Up to $800 |
| 1950-D Jefferson Nickel | 1950 | $600 to $800 |
| 1939 Double Monticello Nickel | 1939 | Up to $500 |
Conclusion
Nickels might seem like small change, but certain rare ones can bring in a lot of money. Collectors are always on the lookout for these valuable five-cent coins, some of which could still be in circulation today. By keeping an eye on the nickels you come across and knowing what to look for, you might just find a valuable coin in your change jar!
FAQ’s
Are old nickels always worth more than their face value?
Not all old nickels are valuable, but rare ones in good condition can be worth a lot of money.
What makes a nickel valuable?
Age, rarity, and condition are the main factors that make a nickel valuable. Certain designs, like the Buffalo Nickel, are especially sought after by collectors.
How should I store valuable nickels?
Store valuable nickels in protective coin cases and avoid cleaning them, as cleaning can reduce their value.