Rare and Valuable U.S. Nickels

Explore the world of U.S. nickels to uncover which ones are worth more than their face value. From the early Shield nickels to the modern Jefferson design, each series has its unique history and potential value.

If you believe your nickel collection might contain some valuable coins, Coinfully offers free, no-obligation appraisals. Reach out to us or fill out our appraisal form to discover the value of your collection.

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Instant value guide

Shield Nickels (1866–1883)

The Shield nickels were the first five-cent pieces made from cupronickel, introduced to replace the silver half dimes. Designed by James B. Longacre, these coins featured a shield on the obverse and a large numeral "5" surrounded by stars on the reverse. Key dates in this series include:

1866 Shield nickel (first year of issue): This coin is particularly significant as it marks the beginning of the modern nickel.
1867 Shield nickel (with and without rays): Variations of this year can affect value, with the "with rays" version being more desirable.

These coins are highly collectible due to their historical significance and distinctive design.

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Liberty Head Nickels (1883–1913)

Liberty Head nickels, often referred to as "V" nickels, featured the profile of Lady Liberty on the obverse and a Roman numeral "V" on the reverse. Notable coins in this series include:

1885 Liberty Head nickel: Known for its low mintage, this coin is one of the key dates in the series.
1913 Liberty Head nickel: Extremely rare, with only five known specimens, making it one of the most famous and valuable U.S. coins.

These nickels are cherished by collectors, especially those rare dates that can fetch high prices.

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Buffalo Nickels (1913–1938)

The Buffalo nickels, also known as Indian Head nickels, are among the most iconic U.S. coins. Designed by James Earle Fraser, these nickels feature a Native American on the obverse and a buffalo on the reverse. Collectors often look for:

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1913 Buffalo nickel (Type 1 and Type 2): The first year of issue, with two distinct types—Type 1 with the buffalo on a mound and Type 2 with the buffalo on a flat plain.
1937-D Buffalo nickel (three-legged error): A famous error coin that is highly sought after by collectors.

These nickels are prized for their beautiful design and historical appeal.

Jefferson Nickels (1938–Present)

Introduced in 1938, the Jefferson nickels have been a staple of U.S. coinage ever since. Notable Jefferson nickels include:

1939-D Jefferson nickel (Reverse of 1940): A rare variety that is highly valued by collectors.
1950-D Jefferson nickel: Known for its low mintage, this coin is one of the key dates in the series.

Though still in circulation today, early Jefferson nickels and certain varieties can be valuable to collectors.

Detailed close-up of an assorted pile of pennies, highlighting the diversity in wear and patina of each coin.

Additional Information for Coin Collectors

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Understanding mintmarks, key dates, and the historical context of your nickels is crucial for identifying valuable coins. At Coinfully, we provide expert appraisals to help you uncover the true value of your collection. For a free appraisal of any U.S. nickels, reach out to us today.

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Ready to see how much your U.S. nickels are worth? It’s easy to get started with Coinfully. Simply request a free appraisal, and our experts will handle the rest. With no obligation to sell, you have nothing to lose.

Free Appraisal With No Obligation To Sell

Take the first step toward selling your silver coins by getting a free appraisal today. Our process is designed to be transparent, convenient, and stress-free, giving you the confidence to sell when you’re ready.

At Coinfully, we’re committed to helping you get the most for your silver coins—all from the comfort of your home.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I know I’m getting a fair price for my nickels?

At Coinfully, we pride ourselves on transparency. Our appraisals are based on the current market value of your nickels, including their metal content and numismatic value. We provide a detailed breakdown of how we determine your offer so that you can be fully informed and confident in the price you receive.

Is my shipment insured when I send my nickels to Coinfully?

Yes, we provide full insurance coverage for your shipment. Whether you’re sending Shield nickels, Buffalo nickels, or Jefferson nickels, your coins are insured throughout the entire shipping process, ensuring that your valuable items are protected and safe.

What types of nickels does Coinfully buy?

We buy all types of U.S. nickels, including Shield, Liberty Head, Buffalo, and Jefferson nickels, and other collectible nickels. Whether your nickels are valuable for their metal content or their collectibility, we’re interested in making you a competitive offer.

What if I’m not ready to sell after receiving an appraisal?

There’s no obligation to sell your nickels after receiving an appraisal from Coinfully. We provide a free, no-pressure appraisal service to help you understand the value of your coins. You can choose to sell when you’re ready, with no pressure from us.

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