The age of a nickel does not necessarily make it rare. Most nickels minted within the last 50 years or so are not considered rare, even though they are older. Nickels that are considered rare are typically much older than 50 years, sometimes dating back to the late 19th century and early 20th century.
Some specific years of production are sought after and therefore considered rare. For example, nickels minted in 1885, 1912-S, 1914-D, 1921, 1946-S and 1964 are typically considered rare. There are various publications and websites which provide detailed information about rare nickels and other collectible coins.
Reference guides about coins can be a great source of information for collectors.
Table of Contents
Why is a 1964 nickel rare?
The 1964 nickel is considered a rare coin due to its short mintage. When the U. S. Mint released the 1964 Jefferson nickel, it produced just over 60. 8 million coins. That number is significantly lower compared to the 205 million 1964 Jefferson nickels of the prior year.
In addition, the 1964 nickel had a proof mintage of just over 1. 77 million. This is the year that saw the transition from the traditional profile of Jefferson to the more modernized look. As a result, many people hoard these coins as a part of their collection.
Not to mention that a 1964 nickel is over 50 years old, and there are not that many of them still in circulation. Furthermore, the 1964 nickel is made of copper and nickel, whereas nickels issued before 1965 contain silver.
The combination of age, low mintage, and the silver-nickel content of the coin makes it rare and valuable to coin collectors.
How can you tell if a 1964 nickel is rare?
Determining if a 1964 nickel is rare can be difficult, as there are several factors to consider. First, it’s important to understand the differences between the two types of nickels minted in 1964. The 1964-D Jefferson Nickel was made in Denver and has a “D” mintmark.
The 1964 Jefferson Nickel was made in Philadelphia and has no mintmark. The 1964-D nickel is generally more valuable than the 1964 nickel without a mintmark.
In addition to the type of nickel and its mintmark, there are other factors that can affect the value and rarity of the nickel. It is important to inspect the coin closely and look for any imperfections and the condition of the coin.
A well-preserved coin in mint state is usually more valuable than a circulated coin. If the coin is from a proof set, it can add to the value of the coin.
Another factor to consider is the strike. A coin that is weakly struck may not bring a premium price. And if the coin has been mis-struck and has an unusual shape, it may be rare and of greater value.
Finally, it is helpful to compare the rarity of the coin to others of the same type. A 1964 Jefferson nickel without a mintmark can be found in abundance, while a 1964-D nickel can be more difficult to find and thus be considered rare.
It is also important to check the population and auction records of the coin to get an idea of its rarity and potential value.
Is there anything special about a 1964 nickel?
Yes, there is something special about a 1964 nickel. The 1964 nickel was the last year of issue for the Jefferson nickel with the mint mark above Monticello, giving it the distinction of being the final silver issue of the denomination.
That year also marks the transition of the nickel to the copper-nickel clad composition that has been used ever since. The Philadelphia and Denver mints both issued 1964 nickels with the notable exception of San Francisco, which last issued the silver Jefferson nickel in 1962.
These coins are highly sought after by collectors and are considered prized possessions among numismatists. A 1964 Jefferson nickel in uncirculated condition is worth significantly more than one from a different year and those from mints other than Philadelphia and Denver are worth even more.
64 Jefferson nickels from San Francisco can be worth as much as five or even ten times that of a Philadelphia or Denver issue, making them incredibly sought after.
How much is a 1964 D nickel worth today?
The value of a 1964 D nickel varies depending on its current condition and the type of nickel. A proof 1964 D nickel or a nickel that has not been circulated is worth around 25 cents, while a 1964 D nickel that is in Good condition or better can be worth up to $1.
50. If the coin is in its original mint condition, it could be worth several hundred dollars. It is also important to note that some of these coins were minted on a mint mark error. Such coins may be worth much more than the regular mint mark coins.
Prices for these coins can range from $15 to over $300.
Are 1964 and older nickels worth anything?
Yes, 1964 and older nickels are worth more than face value due to their silver content. Nickels minted between 1942 and 1945 have a larger percentage of silver in them (35%), while coins minted before 1964 are made out of pure nickel and are therefore worth slightly more.
The value of a nickel depends on its condition, the year it was minted, and the current silver spot price (the actual market price of silver). Generally speaking, though, a 1964 or older nickel can be worth up to $1.
50 to a collector or dealer depending on all the factors mentioned above.
Can a 1964 nickel be silver?
No, a 1964 nickel cannot be silver. Prior to 1965, all nickels were made from an alloy of 75% copper and 25% nickel. Starting in 1965, the US Mint switched to using an alloy of copper, zinc, and manganese instead of the traditional alloy to make nickels.
Therefore, no nickels made in 1964 should be silver.
What nickels should I keep?
When it comes to collecting nickels, there are several different types of coins you should look out for. One of the most sought after nickels is the Liberty Head nickels, also known as V nickels, which were minted from 1883 to 1913.
These coins are valuable because they contain just under a full ounce of 90% pure nickel, plus they feature an identifiable designs that makes them stand out from other coins. Another type of nickel you should keep an eye out for are Buffalo Nickels, which were produced from 1913 to 1938.
These coins feature an iconic design of a buffalo on the back, and due to the fact that they’re the first nickel coins to feature a Native American, they’re highly collectible. Also, Jefferson Nickels, which have been produced since 1938, should also be kept.
These coins feature a portrait of Thomas Jefferson on the front, and Monticello on the back which are both important landmarks of American history. Any Jefferson nickels dated before 1964 are made of silver, and thus are worth more than their face value.
Finally, any coins produced since 1965 should also be observed since, although they don’t contain any silver, they may still have errors or other special features that could make them more valuable.
How do I know if my 1964 nickel is a SMS?
The best way to know if your 1964 nickel is a Special Mint Set (SMS) is to check the coin’s mint mark. SMS coins were only released to the public in 1965, so all 1964 nickels should either have a “P” mint mark to denote they were minted in Philadelphia or a “D” mint mark to denote they were minted in Denver.
If the 1964 nickel you have does not have either of these mint marks, then it is not a Special Mint Set (SMS) coin. Additionally, SMS coins have a much more satin-like finish than regular nickels, so you could also check the surface of the coin to determine if it is an SMS.
What does SMS mean for 1964 nickel?
SMS (or Special Mint Set) was a limited edition of coins created by the United States Mint in 1964. These coins are easily distinguished by their matte finish. This set was issued in honor of the 1964 New York World’s Fair which celebrated progress in science, technology, and industry.
The 1964 SMS nickel was one of five coins included in the set, along with the one cent, five cent, dime, and quarter. These coins have quite a bit of value due to their distinctive finish, rarity, and association with a special event.
1964 SMS nickels are widely sought after by collectors and numismatists.
Where is the D mint mark on a 1964 nickel?
The 1964 nickel (Five Cent coin) minted by the United States Mint includes the “D” mint mark on the reverse side of the coin, below the word “MOTTO. ” The “D” stands for “Denver,” the city in which this particular nickel was minted.
The details on the reverse side of the dime also includes the phrase “E PLURIBUS UNUM,” a Latin phrase meaning “out of many, one” that appears on almost all American coins. The face of the nickel features the profile of Thomas Jefferson, the third president of the United States.
To the right under the date is the small “D” mint mark.
What nickels are worth money by year?
The value of a nickel is determined by its condition, how old it is and the year of mintage. Nickels issued before 1857 were made of copper and silver and are generally worth significantly more than their face value.
Nickels minted between 1857 and 1864 are also made of copper and silver and are often referred to as “Shield Nickels. ” These nickels typically command higher premiums, especially in higher grades. Nickel coins minted after 1920, with the exception of those minted in 1942, generally have a face value that is equal to their bullion value.
Nickels minted between 1889 and 1912, with the exception of 1883 where no coins were produced, are known as Liberty Head nickels and all of these dates have a wide range of values depending on condition.
The most valuable of these is the 1885 nickel, which can sell for around $200 in Extremely Fine condition.
The Indian Head nickel, produced from 1913 until 1938 features Chief Iron Tail on the obverse (front) and a buffalo on the reverse (back). These nickels are all valuable, with prices ranging from $7 for a well-worn example, to about $200 for one in Extremely Fine condition or higher.
The Jefferson nickel is the currently circulating nickel, minted from 1938 until the present day. Nickels from 1938 through mid-1942 are composed of three-quarters copper and one-quarter nickel (75% copper 25% nickel).
Nickels minted from mid-1942 through 1945 feature a silver colored alloy composed of 35% silver, 56% copper and 9% manganese. Nickels produced after 1945 are composed of 75% copper and 25% nickel. Generally, these nickels are worth no more than their face value, but certain key dates (1939-S, 1950-D and 1955-S) may be worth more in higher grades.
What are the key dates to look for in nickels?
When it comes to key dates to look for in nickels, there are several different types that provide added value for coin collectors. Generally, key date nickels are those with a low mintage, making them scarce and more valuable.
The first key date is the Liberty Head five cent piece dated 1883. This variant is valued due to its low production of only 20,000 coins and is a popular choice amongst collectors.
Next, is the Buffalo nickel dated 1913-S with a mintage of only 587,000 coins. It carries a unique value, as it exists in both “Types”, providing the collector the option to purchase either a Type I or Type II Buffalo nickel.
The third key date is the 1913-D, which was minted with a mintage of 1,193,000 coins. This date carries extra value due to the fact it is the lowest mintage of all the U.S. Buffalo nickels.
Finally, there are key date Wartime nickels from 1942-1945. These coins were minted with a special alloy that included steel, along with a tiny percent of copper, making them magnetic. They are also relatively scarce and valued for their wartime role in conserving copper for other wartime efforts.
All in all, these key date nickels provide an opportunity for coin collectors to purchase coins with a unique story and value. With each one providing its own unique history, they are a great option to add to any collection.
What type of nickel is worth money?
Nickels that are worth money can fall into two distinct categories: collectible niche-issue coins and circulated coins with errors. Collectible niche-issue coins include special editions of nickels minted specifically for collectors, such as commemorative coins for the bicentennials of the U.
S. Constitution or the Louisiana Purchase. These coins usually come in special packaging or with certificates of authenticity and can be worth anywhere from several cents to a few hundred dollars, depending on their condition.
Circulated coins can also be worth money if they display errors such as mis-strikes, double-strikes, or dies out of alignment. Other errors can also be valuable, such as clipped planchets and off-center coins.
Generally, the more rare the error, the more valuable the coin. Collectors can help determine the value of an error coin by consulting price guides or speaking to a professional numismatist.
What are the $100 most valuable nickels?
The 100 most valuable nickels can vary, as the worth of coins can change over time. As of July 2020, based on the values listed on the PCGS Price Guide, the top 100 most valuable nickels are:
1. 1913 Liberty Head Nickel – $3,755,000
2. 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel – $250,000
3. 1918/7-D Buffalo Nickel – $185,000
4. 1915-S Buffalo Nickel – $80,000
5. 1916 Doubled Die Obverse Buffalo Nickel – $50,000
6. 1918-S Buffalo Nickel – $37,500
7. 1885 Liberty Head Nickel – $28,000
8. 1913-D Type I Buffalo Nickel – $18,000
9. 1883 Liberty Head Nickel With “CENTS” – $18,000
10. 1912-S Liberty Head Nickel – $16,000
11. 1897 Liberty Head Nickel – $15,500
12. 1902 Liberty Head Nickel – $14,500
13. 1868 Shield Nickel – $11,500
14. 1865 Shield Nickel – $11,000
15. 1883 Liberty Head Nickel Without “CENTS” – $11,000
16. 1870 Shield Nickel – $10,000
17. 1884 Liberty Head Nickel – $9,800
18. 1869 Shield Nickel – $8,800
19. 1901 Liberty Head Nickel – $7,000
20. 1900 Liberty Head Nickel – $6,000
21. 1904 Liberty Head Nickel – $6,000
22. 1921-S Buffalo Nickel – $5,750
23. 1866 Shield Nickel – $5,400
24. 1936 Buffalo Nickel – $4,350
25. 1913-D Type 2 Buffalo Nickel – $4,300
26. 1911-D Liberty Head Nickel – $4,000
27. 1926-S Buffalo Nickel – $3,500
28. 1895 Liberty Head Nickel – $3,250
29. 1925-D Buffalo Nickel – $3,250
30. 1916-D Buffalo Nickel – $3,000
31. 1908-S Liberty Head Nickel – $3,000
32. 1909-S Liberty Head Nickel – $3,000
33. 1914-D Liberty Head Nickel – $2,800
34. 1910-S Liberty Head Nickel – $2,800
35. 1903 Liberty Head Nickel – $2,600
36. 1927-S Buffalo Nickel – $2,550
37. 1911 Liberty Head Nickel – $2,400
38. 1917-D Buffalo Nickel – $2,400
39. 1917 Buffalo Nickel – $2,350
40. 1912 Liberty Head Nickel – $2,250
41. 1873 Open 3 Shield Nickel – $2,000
42. 1926-D Buffalo Nickel – $2,000
43. 1928-S Buffalo Nickel – $1,950
44. 1938-S Buffalo Nickel – $1,800
45. 1867 Shield Nickel – $1,750
46. 1925-S Buffalo Nickel – $1,700
47. 1924-S Buffalo Nickel – $1,700
48. 1899 Liberty Head Nickel – $1,650
49. 1901-S Liberty Head Nickel – $1,550
50. 1907 Liberty Head Nickel – $1,450
51. 1913-S Type 2 Buffalo Nickel – $1,400
52. 1909-D Liberty Head Nickel – $1,350
53. 1902-S Liberty Head Nickel – $1,350
54. 1907-D Liberty Head Nickel – $1,350
55. 1924-D Buffalo Nickel – $1,300
56. 1917-S Buffalo Nickel – $1,250
57. 1929-S Buffalo Nickel – $1,250
58. 1902-O Liberty Head Nickel – $1,150
59. 1926-P Buffalo Nickel – $1,150
60. 1908 Liberty Head Nickel – $1,050
61. 1922-S Buffalo Nickel – $1,050
62. 1929-D Buffalo Nickel – $1,050
63. 1913-S Type I Buffalo Nickel – $1,000
64. 1912-D Liberty Head Nickel – $1,000
65. 1936-D Buffalo Nickel – $1,000
66. 1910 Liberty Head Nickel – $900
67. 1928 Buffalo Nickel – $850
68. 1919-D Buffalo Nickel – $850
69. 1921 Buffalo Nickel – $850
70. 1922 Buffalo Nickel – $850
71. 1923-S Buffalo Nickel – $850
72. 1903-S Liberty Head Nickel – $800
73. 1899-O Liberty Head Nickel – $800
74. 1909 Liberty Head Nickel – $750
75. 1908-D Liberty Head Nickel – $750
76. 1935-S Buffalo Nickel – $750
77. 1911-S Liberty Head Nickel – $725
78. 1931-S Buffalo Nickel – $700
79. 1934-D Buffalo Nickel – $700
80. 1901-O Liberty Head Nickel – $650
81. 1920-S Buffalo Nickel – $625
82. 1925 Buffalo Nickel – $625
83. 1933-D Buffalo Nickel – $625
84. 1901-D Liberty Head Nickel – $600
85. 1903-D Liberty Head Nickel – $600
86. 1902-D Liberty Head Nickel – $550
87. 1934-S Buffalo Nickel – $550
88. 1937-D Buffalo Nickel – $550
89. 1937-S Buffalo Nickel – $530
90. 1929-P Buffalo Nickel – $500
91. 1919-S Buffalo Nickel – $500
92. 1931-D Buffalo Nickel – $475
93. 1911-D Liberty Head Nickel – $450
94. 1936-S Buffalo Nickel – $450
95. 1927-P Buffalo Nickel – $425
96. 1930-S Buffalo Nickel – $425
97. 1938-D Buffalo Nickel – $425
98. 1933 Buffalo Nickel – $400
99. 1930 Buffalo Nickel – $400
100. 1934 Buffalo Nickel – $400
