5 Rare Nickels Worth $78 Million: Have you ever casually glanced at a nickel and tossed it aside without a second thought? You might want to take a closer look. Some rare nickels are worth thousands or even millions of dollars, and they might still be hiding in your everyday pocket change.
From historical minting errors to limited-edition releases, these elusive coins could turn a simple five-cent piece into a life-changing payday. Let’s explore five of the rarest nickels, with a combined estimated value of $78 million, that could still be in circulation today.
1. 1913 Liberty Head Nickel – A Multi-Million Dollar Mystery
Estimated Value: $3.7 Million+
Mintage: 5 known
Key Features: Lady Liberty design, no official minting records
The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel is one of the rarest and most valuable coins in U.S. history. Only five specimens are known to exist, and their origin remains a mystery since the design had already been discontinued before they were minted.
This coin is essentially “off the books,” making it a numismatic treasure. One sold for over $3.7 million at auction. If you happen to find one, you could be holding a coin worth more than a luxury sports car or even a mansion.
2. 1942–1945 Silver War Nickels – Hidden Value in Wartime Coins
Estimated Value: Up to $16,000 (for rare error coins)
Mintage: High, but many were melted or lost
Key Features: 35% silver content, large mint mark above Monticello
During World War II, nickel was a crucial war material, so the U.S. Mint switched to a silver-based alloy. These “War Nickels” can be easily identified by a large mint mark (P, D, or S) placed above Monticello on the reverse side.
While most of these coins are worth only their silver content, rare errors or uncirculated specimens can sell for thousands of dollars. If you spot one in your collection, you may be holding a piece of history worth a small fortune.
3. 1950-D Jefferson Nickel – The King of Scarce Mintage
Estimated Value: $20,000+
Mintage: 2,630,030 (lowest for the Jefferson series)
Key Features: D mint mark, low circulation, high collector demand
The 1950-D Jefferson Nickel is a collector’s favorite due to its extremely low mintage. Many of these coins were hoarded upon release, making them harder to find in everyday transactions.
If you come across one in pristine condition with sharp details especially with Full Steps on Monticello it could be worth over $20,000.
4. 1939-D Jefferson Nickel – A Key Date Nickel with High Demand
Estimated Value: Up to several thousand dollars
Mintage: 3,514,000
Key Features: D mint mark, rare in high-grade condition
The 1939-D Jefferson Nickel is another rarity in the series. While over 3 million were minted, finding one in near-perfect condition is challenging.
Collectors prize this coin, especially those with a Full Steps designation, which refers to sharp details on Monticello. If you find one, it could be worth a substantial amount.
5. 2005-D “Speared Bison” Nickel – A Modern-Day Minting Error Treasure
Estimated Value: $1,000 – $3,000+
Mintage: Unknown (error-based)
Key Features: Die gouge resembling a spear through the bison’s back
In 2005, the U.S. Mint released a nickel featuring a bison on the reverse. Some Denver-minted coins had a striking minting error a die gouge that appears like a spear piercing through the bison’s back.
These error nickels are highly sought after, with values easily reaching four figures. If you find one in uncirculated condition, it could be worth thousands.
Rare Nickels to Look for in Your Change
| Nickel Type | Year(s) | Mint Mark | Notable Feature | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Liberty Head Nickel | 1913 | — | Unauthorized issue, only 5 known | $3.7 Million+ |
| Silver War Nickels | 1942–1945 | P, D, S | 35% silver, large mint mark | Up to $16,000 |
| Jefferson Nickel (Low Mintage) | 1950-D | D | Lowest Jefferson mintage | $20,000+ |
| Jefferson Nickel (Rare Date) | 1939-D | D | Scarce with Full Steps | Several thousand $ |
| Speared Bison Error Nickel | 2005-D | D | Die gouge through bison | $1,000 – $3,000+ |
Conclusion: Check Your Nickels Before You Spend Them!
These five rare nickels represent a total potential value of $78 million, and there’s a real possibility that one could be sitting in your pocket right now. Whether it’s a legendary Liberty Head Nickel or a modern minting error, these coins prove that every nickel is worth a second glance.
Next time you get change from the store, don’t toss it aside inspect your nickels carefully. You might just be holding a rare piece of history that could change your life forever!
