Before 1965, nickels were primarily composed of silver, as opposed to the 75% copper and 25% nickel alloy that modern nickels consist of. Due to the silver content, these pre-1965 nickels have a collectible value that can make them worth significantly more than the face value of five cents.
Generally speaking, a nickel from before 1965 in circulated condition is valued at around its silver content, which is about twice the face value. However, the exact worth of such coins can be determined by examining their condition, date and mintmark.
Nickels without a mintmark were all produced at the Philadelphia Mint, while those with a “D” were made in Denver and Nickels with an “S” were produced at the San Francisco Mint. Nickels with an “S” mintmark are typically more valuable due to their limited mintage.
The most valuable nickels before 1965 are generally those in uncirculated condition, meaning they were never put into circulation. Such pieces usually carry a value several times that of their face value.
Depending on the condition, some uncirculated pre-1965 nickels can be worth between five and ten times their weight in silver. However, as with any type of rare or collectible coin, individual examples can vary significantly in value depending on their exact condition and rarity.
Therefore, nickels from before 1965 can be quite valuable, though their exact worth will depend on their condition, date and mintmark. To ensure the coins have the greatest possible value, one should have their collection professionally appraised.
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What year nickels are worth keeping?
Most years of nickels have a minted quantity in the billions and are not valuable beyond their collector value. However, certain years of nickel coins are worth keeping, not just for their collectability.
In specific, those dates are: 1866, 1883, 1884, 1885, 1886, 1912, 1916, 1917, 1918, 1937-D 3-legged, 1942-D over horizontal D, 1942-D over vertical D, 1950-D/S, 1943-P steel, 1943-D steel, 1943-S steel, 1944-P steel, 1944-D steel, 1944-S steel, 1945-P steel, and 1945-D steel.
Other nickel coins, such as Proofs and Special Mint Sets of 1945-S are also worth keeping.
Additionally, those issued before the year 2000 can have slight varieties that can affect the value. This applies to coins from the Buffalo Nickels (1913-1938) and the Jefferson Nickels (1938-present).
Those nickels that are in any grade of Mint State condition (MS-60 through MS-70) may have a higher value for grade.
Overall, the best way to determine the value of a particular date of nickel is to research the coin, find what its current worth is, and then take it to a reputable coin dealer or grader. If you cannot find a value in your research, then the coin may not have any collector value.
Why is a 1964 nickel worth so much?
The 1964 nickel is worth so much because it is one of the most recognized coins in the United States. With a mintage of only 105,620,000, it is quite rare compared to many coins from that time period.
It is also very popular with coin collectors. The coin features a portrait of Thomas Jefferson on one side and the Monticello on the reverse. The condition of the coin is also important, as coins with higher mintages are almost always worth more while those in lower conditions can devalue the coin.
Additionally, some of the 1964 nickels were made from silver instead of copper-nickel, making them much rarer and more valuable. Taken together, these factors make the 1964 nickel worth a considerable amount.
Are 1964 nickels worth saving?
Yes, 1964 nickels are worth saving, as they are considered collector’s items. While the value of any coin is subject to fluctuations over time, 1964 nickels can be quite valuable. 1964 nickels in good condition may be worth several dollars or more each.
The amount a 1964 nickel is worth depends highly on its grade and condition. Uncirculated 1964 nickels that have been graded by a professional coin grading service can often fetch high prices from collectors.
Circulated 1964 coins are less valuable than uncirculated coins, but they may still be worth keeping if they are in good condition. As with any coin, a certified professional coin dealer should be consulted to determine the exact value of 1964 nickels.
Why should I hoard nickels?
Hoarding nickels can be a great way to increase your savings and is often overlooked by many people. Generally, nickels are worth more than face value because there are always shortages of them – most of the time nickels are the least collected US coins.
They also tend to cost less and have lower premiums than other coins of similar size or content, which is why many people find them attractive as a collector’s item.
Additionally, nickels are one of the most affordable coins to collect, which is why they can be great investments and can be saved up over time. Nickels also hold their value well over time and often do not lose their value like other coins.
They are also typically more available than other rare and expensive coins, so it is often easier to find nickels when you’re searching for them.
Finally, it is important to note that hoarding nickels can be a great way to protect your wealth, as they are widely accepted in trade and can be traded for goods and services. Also, if you were to ever find yourself in a tough financial situation, having some hoarded nickels might be helpful in establishing a solid foundation to get back on your feet.
All in all, hoarding nickels can be a great way to increase your savings, protect your wealth and give you more financial freedom.
Are nickels going up in value?
The answer to whether or not nickels are going up in value is both yes and no. The face value of a nickel is 5 cents and does not typically fluctuate. However, the metal that nickels are made from – a mixture of 25 percent nickel and 75 percent copper – does go up and down in value.
The price of a nickel thus depends on the price of nickel and copper, which can fluctuate depending on the market. Nickels are also sometimes made with silver; they are produced in limited quantities, and are thus worth more than their 5 cent face value.
Overall, because nickel and copper prices fluctuate, the overall worth of a nickel can go up or down over time.
What years are rare nickels?
Rare nickels can be found across a variety of years, with certain dates holding more value than others. From the mid-1800s to the early 1900s, there are multiple coins that can be considered rare nickels.
Although the 1865 Shield Nickel had a mintage of only 3,200, the 1878-1881 Shield Nickel may be the rarest nickel in U. S. numismatic history with a mintage of only 750 coins. For Buffalo Nickels, the 1913-S (minted in San Francisco) is the rarest for the series, with a mintage of only 5,337 coins.
Other significant years for rare nickels are 1918/7-D, 1920-S, 1924-S, and 1937-D 3 Legs. Other popular dates among collectors are 1937, 1942/1, 1942/41 and 1942/42. Some years also have repunched dates, such as the 1937-D 3 Legs, 1942/41 and 1942/42.
What are the 25 most valuable nickels?
The 25 most valuable nickels are as follows (in order of value from highest to lowest):
1. 1885 Liberty Head Nickel – Value: $3.7 million
2. 1913 Liberty Head Nickel – Value: $3.1 million
3. 1937-D 3-Legged Buffalo Nickel – Value: $2.9 million
4. 1883 Liberty Head Nickel – Value: $2.2 to $2.5 million
5. 1924-S Buffalo Nickel – Value: $2.5 million
6. 1921-S Augusta Commemorative Half Dollar – Value: $2.2 million
7. 1873 Seated Liberty Silver Half Dime – Value: $500,000 to $1 million
8. 1921-S Buffalo Nickel – Value: $500,000 to $600,000
9. 1921-S San Antonio Centennial Commemorative Half Dollar – Value: $170,000 to $200,000
10. 1890-CC Liberty Head Nickel – Value: $150,000 to $200,000
11. 1910-S Buffalo Nickel – Value: $80,000 to $100,000
12. 1913-S Type II Buffalo Nickel – Value: $60,000 to $70,000
13. 1876-CC Seated Liberty Dime – Value: $55,000 to $60,000
14. 1925-S Stone Mountain Commemorative Half Dollar – Value: $50,000 to $60,000
15. 1914-D Buffalo Nickel – Value: $40,000 to $50,000
16. 1876-S Liberty Head Nickel – Value: $40,000 to $50,000
17. 1892-O Barber Quarter – Value: $40,000 to $45,000
18. 1896-O Barber Quarter – Value: $40,000 to $45,000
19. 1891-O Barber Half Dollar – Value: $20,000 to $25,000
20. 1927-D Oregon Trail Commemorative Half Dollar – Value: $18,000 to $22,000
21. 1916-S Mercury Dime – Value: $15,000 to $20,000
22. 1913-S Buffalo Nickel – Value: $15,000 to $20,000
23. 1915-S Panama Pacific Exposition Half Dollar – Value: $14,000 to $18,000
24. 1920-S Buffalo Nickel – Value: $10,000 to $15,000
25. 1915-S Buffalo Nickel – Value: $9,000 to $11,000
What are top 10 nickels?
1. Buffalo Nickels (1913-1938): The Buffalo Nickel is an iconic five-cent piece produced by the United States Mint from 1913 to 1938. It is also known as the Indian Head Nickel because of its obverse depicting a bust of a Native American.
It was designed by James Earle Fraser and its reverse depicts a wild bison. The design has been described as a classic example of American numismatic art.
2. Liberty Nickels (1883-1912): The Liberty Nickel was produced from 1883 to 1912 and the obverse of this nickel featured a Liberty head, designed by James Earle Fraser. The reverse was designed by Fraser as well and depicted a Roman numeral V for five cents.
3. 1866 Shield Nickel: The Shield Nickel, first minted in 1866, was the first copper-nickel five-cent piece produced by the United States Mint. It featured a shield on the obverse side and an eagle on the reverse.
4. 1943-1945 Silver Jefferson Nickels: These Jefferson nickels were made from silver due to a shortage of nickel during the second World War. The war-time nickels are easily identified by their color since they are noticeably lighter than their original counterparts.
5. 1938-Date Jefferson Nickels: The obverse of this nickel features a bust of Thomas Jefferson, the third President of the United States, and is based on a 19th century portrait by Rembrandt Peale. The reverse is adorned with a representation of the new Monticello.
6. 1883 No Cents Liberty Nickel: This rare coin was not meant to be released in circulation, but some managed to escape from the mint in 1883. It featured a Liberty head obverse and a Roman numeral V reverse but no mention of the denomination in cents.
7. 1868 Shield Nickel: This nickel is similar to the 1866 Shield Nickel but with a couple of difference such as a larger overall size and a smaller shield with a modified reverse image.
8. 2000-Date “Westward Journey Nickels”: This nickel series was introduced in 2004 to commemorate the bicentennial of the Louisiana Purchase and the Lewis & Clark Expedition. The obverse features a portrait of Thomas Jefferson while the reverse features designs inspired by their expedition.
9. War Time Nickels (1942-1945): This nickel series was only minted during WW2, in an effort to reduce the amount of nickel in US coins and conserve resources needed for the war effort. The obverse featured a montage of the symbols of the Allied nations (Great Britain, USSR, and China), while the reverse featured a large mintmark.
10. 1999 Island Chain Nickels (Hawaii/Sudan Variety): The 1999 issue of the Jefferson Nickel featured two different reverse designs. The first series had a design depicting the states of Hawaii, Arkansas and Oklahoma, while the second series had a design depicting the Island Chain of Sudan.
What nickels should I keep?
If you are trying to collect or save nickels, there are a few factors to consider in determining which ones to keep. First, you should select coins that have no signs of wear, such as scratches, marks, or discoloration.
Nickels that appear to be in generally good shape will likely have more value and may be worth holding onto. Second, you should look for rare and unique nickels which can be more valuable to collectors.
Nickels that were minted during special years, have errors, or have features that are not commonplace can be more important and, therefore, worth saving. Finally, if you think your coins might be valuable, you should have them verified by a certified numismatist.
This professional can help to accurately identify your coins and provide you with an estimated value.
How can you tell if nickels are silver?
Since the last U. S. silver nickels were minted in the 1940s, you cannot tell if a nickel is silver just by looking at it. The best way to know if a nickel is silver is to use a silver testing kit. It is important to distinguish between silver and other non-silver metals, as silver has significantly more value than a nickel.
For instance, silver has been fetching as much as over $20 per ounce compared to the five-cent value of a nickel.
When testing a nickel, the kit will require you to scrape the nickel to test the metal inside the coin. Once the kit is finished testing the nickel, it will offer results indicating the type of metal the coin is made out of.
With silver, the rub test will often be enough to identify the coin as silver, leaving only a black residue. However, it is important to note that not all silver coins will pass the silver test since coins from the 1950s or later contain a low amount of silver that may not show up in the testing kit.
In addition to silver testing kits, another way to tell if a nickel is silver is to use a magnet. Silver is not magnetic, while nickel coins contain small amounts of copper in it which makes it slightly magnetic.
When held together with the magnet, you should be able to tell if the coin is silver or nickel.
Should I keep 1964 nickels?
It depends on what you want to do with those 1964 nickels. They are still worth the same face value of 5 cents each, but the actual worth varies depending on its condition and collector demand. Nickels from 1964 were made out of copper, so they could be worth more than face value if they are in higher grades.
If you are a coin collector and the condition of your coins is in high demand, then you should keep it. Otherwise, if you’re not looking to collect coins, then you may choose to spend or trade it in for its face value.
It’s ultimately up to you to decide if you want to keep the 1964 nickels or not.
Why is the 1964 D nickel valuable?
The 1964 D nickel is a valuable coin due to its rarity and historical significance. It was the last year the U. S. minted the iconic five-cent coin before the introduction of the modern nickel in 1965.
Because of the small amount minted in that year, the 1964 D nickel is very hard to find and is therefore a highly sought after item.
What makes the 1964 D nickel more valuable than other similar coins is that it was the first year the coin was minted with the portrait of Thomas Jefferson. This image of the third president of the United States is forever stamped onto each coin which makes it a great collectible item.
In addition, this particular nickel is the only coin minted in the Philadelphia mint with a special “D” mintmark. This rare mintmark gives the coin even further value, as it identifies the origin of the coin from the Denver, Colorado mint.
Given the rarity and historical significance, it is no surprise that the 1964 D nickel is an extremely valuable and desirable piece for coin collectors around the world.
Is it a good idea to save nickels?
Yes, it is a good idea to save nickels. Saving nickels is a great way to get into a habit of saving money and it can add up quickly. Nickels may not seem like a lot, but they still represent real money that can be put towards larger purchases or saved over a long period of time.
You can save the coins in a piggy bank and, when it’s full, exchange them for paper money and add the amount to your savings. Additionally, over time, it is possible for the coins to accrue in their metal value which, depending on the coin, could prove to be extremely valuable.
Finally, if you save and hold nickels for a long enough period of time, you may just have a unique and eye-catching collection.
Are nickels a good investment?
Whether or not investing in nickels is a good idea depends on a few different factors. Nickels, like many other coins, can be valuable due to their condition, rarity, and the type of nickel. Nickels minted prior to 1964 are made from 90% or more silver and can be worth much more than face value due to their silver content.
Besides the silver, there are a variety of rare types of nickels that can be quite valuable. So, if you’re investing in nickels for their collectible value, you could certainly find them to be a good investment.
On the other hand, if you’re investing in nickels simply to make a profit, that might be more difficult. Nickels minted after 1964 are mostly made of copper and nickel, and it’s unlikely that they would appreciate enough to give a good return on your investment.
Additionally, even if you find valuable coins, you would still have to find someone willing to pay the price.
Overall, the decision to invest in nickels ultimately comes down to a personal decision. If you’re an experienced coin collector, you may have an advantage in finding rare coins and you may benefit from their appreciation.
On the other hand, if you are buying for speculation, it could be a riskier endeavor and you may have difficulty turning a profit.
