Top 5 Rare Nickels Worth Up To $280 Million – Hidden Treasures In Your Change Jar
When it comes to rare coins, nickels may not immediately come to mind as high-value collectibles. However, certain rare U.S. nickels have shocked the world with their incredible worth—some potentially valued at $280 million or more due to their rarity, historical significance, and collector demand.
In this article, we reveal the top 5 rare nickels that have stunned the numismatic community and continue to be hunted by collectors worldwide.
1. 1913 Liberty Head Nickel
The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel is one of the most iconic and mysterious coins in American history. Only five examples are known to exist, and they were not officially authorized by the U.S. Mint. These nickels were allegedly struck clandestinely, making them highly sought-after.
- Estimated Value: Up to $28 million
- Minted: Unofficially (1913)
- Known Specimens: 5
- Notable Sale: One sold for $4.56 million in a 2018 auction.
2. 1885 Liberty Head Nickel
This nickel is rare due to its extremely low mintage—only 1.47 million coins were produced. Most were circulated heavily, and uncirculated examples are nearly impossible to find.
- Estimated Value: Up to $50,000 (Uncirculated)
- Minted: 1885
- Notable Feature: Often shows wear even in high grades.
3. 1916 Doubled Die Buffalo Nickel
The Buffalo Nickel series is widely collected, and the 1916 Doubled Die Obverse version is among the rarest due to a minting error. The doubling is visible on the date and inscriptions.
- Estimated Value: $100,000 to $200,000
- Minted: 1916
- Key Detail: Strong doubling on the word “Liberty” and the date.
4. 1926-S Buffalo Nickel
The 1926-S Buffalo Nickel is rare in high grades due to poor strike quality and heavy circulation in the West. Fewer than 20 mint-state examples are believed to exist.
- Estimated Value: Up to $50,000+
- Minted: 970,000
- Condition Sensitive: MS-65 or higher is nearly non-existent.
5. 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel
This famous mint error occurred at the Denver Mint, where over-polishing of the die erased the front leg of the buffalo. This unusual error led to a spike in interest among collectors.
- Estimated Value: $10,000 to $150,000
- Minted: 1937 (Denver)
- Notable Error: Missing buffalo leg
Summary of Top 5 Rare Nickels
| Year & Type | Estimated Value | Key Feature | Mint Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1913 Liberty Head Nickel | Up to $28 million | Unauthorized minting, only 5 known | Unknown |
| 1885 Liberty Head Nickel | Up to $50,000 | Extremely low mintage | Philadelphia |
| 1916 Doubled Die Buffalo | $100,000 – $200,000 | Doubled inscriptions | Philadelphia |
| 1926-S Buffalo Nickel | Up to $50,000+ | Poor strike, rare in high grade | San Francisco |
| 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo | $10,000 – $150,000 | Mint error, missing leg | Denver |
Rare nickels can be hidden treasures, often sitting unnoticed in collections or even everyday change. Coins like the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel have changed hands for millions, making them dream finds for collectors.
If you’re holding onto old nickels, now might be the time to evaluate their worth—you could be sitting on a fortune.
FAQs
How can I tell if my nickel is rare?
Look for key dates, mint marks, and errors such as doubling or missing features. Professional grading helps confirm value.
Are all Buffalo Nickels valuable?
Not all, but certain dates like 1937-D Three-Legged or 1926-S in high grade can be worth thousands.
Where can I sell a valuable nickel?
You can sell through coin dealers, auctions, or online platforms after getting your coin authenticated and graded.
Leave a Reply