Collecting coins isn’t just about the thrill of the hunt; it’s about holding history in the palm of your hand. Among U.S. coinage, the Liberty Head V Nickel series stands out as a treasure trove for collectors, especially those seeking rare and valuable pieces. Each of these nickels tells a unique story of American history and craftsmanship. Let’s dive into the ten rarest and most valuable Liberty Head V Nickels that every collector dreams of owning.
10 Rare and Most Valuable Liberty Head V Nickels
1. 1885 Liberty Head V Nickel
This coin is one of the most sought-after dates in the Liberty Head series due to its low mintage of just 1.47 million. Finding one in high-grade condition is a challenge, as many were heavily circulated.
Value: Its scarcity and significance ensure it remains a favorite among collectors.
2. 1913 Liberty Head V Nickel
The 1913 Liberty Head V Nickel is a legend in numismatics. With only five known examples, its origin is shrouded in mystery. These nickels were never officially released for circulation, adding to their allure. Their rarity and historical significance make them the crown jewels of any collection.
Value: One sold for $4.56 million in 2018, and its value continues to soar.
3. 1912-S Liberty Head V Nickel
The 1912-S Liberty Head V Nickel has the distinction of being the first nickel minted in San Francisco. With a mintage of only 238,000, it’s the lowest production run in the entire series, making it exceptionally rare.
Value: High-grade examples command significant premiums.
4. 1924-S Buffalo Nickel
Struck in low numbers, the 1924-S Buffalo Nickel had a mintage of just 1.4 million. Its poor striking quality and heavy circulation have made high-grade examples incredibly rare.
Value: Coins in exceptional condition command impressive premiums.
5. 1867 Shield Nickel (with Rays)
Though not a Liberty Head Nickel, the 1867 Shield Nickel “with Rays” is a precursor that holds its own among rare nickels. This unique design, featuring rays around the shield, was used for just one year due to die wear issues.
Value: Its rarity and distinct design make it a cornerstone of any nickel collection.
6. 1926-S Buffalo Nickel
With a mintage of just 970,000, the 1926-S Buffalo Nickel is one of the rarest in the Buffalo Nickel series. Many of these coins were heavily circulated, making well-preserved examples exceedingly scarce.
Value: Collectors pay a premium for high-grade coins.
10 Rare Coins That Are Worth Millions
10 Rare Coins That are Worth Millions
7. 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel
One of the most iconic error coins, the 1937-D Buffalo Nickel appears to have only three legs due to excessive die polishing at the Denver Mint. Its unique flaw has made it a must-have for serious collectors.
Value: This famous error coin commands high prices in any grade.
8. 1916 Doubled Die Obverse Buffalo Nickel
This error coin is characterized by noticeable doubling on the obverse, particularly in the word “LIBERTY” and the Native American’s facial features. It’s a standout among error coins.
Value: The doubling dramatically increases its value, especially in higher grades.
9. 1918/7-D Buffalo Nickel
This fascinating overdate coin is a result of a die engraved with “1917” being re-engraved with “1918.” Produced at the Denver Mint, this error has made it one of the most desirable nickels among collectors.
Value: In high grades, it’s one of the most valuable Buffalo Nickels.
10. 1942-D Over Horizontal D Jefferson Nickel
During World War II, the U.S. Mint produced this fascinating error coin with a horizontally punched “D” mintmark corrected later. It’s a prime example of the quirks of minting during a tumultuous time.
Value: High-grade examples are highly prized by error coin enthusiasts.
Final Thoughts
Rare Liberty Head V Nickels and other valuable nickels are more than collectible items—they’re pieces of American history. Each coin on this list carries a story of craftsmanship, innovation, and historical significance. Which of these nickels would you love to add to your collection? Start your hunt today and see if you can uncover one of these treasures!