7 Valuable Jefferson And Buffalo Nickels Worth Over $100,000 – Could They Be Hiding In Your Change?

Nickels have been a staple in American currency for over a century, but did you know that some of these seemingly ordinary coins could be worth a fortune? Both Jefferson and Buffalo nickels have rare variations that can fetch over $100,000 at auctions.

Understanding the unique features and errors that make these coins valuable can help you identify a hidden treasure in your change.

1. 1916 Doubled Die Obverse Buffalo Nickel

• Estimated Value: Up to $281,750
• Distinguishing Feature: This coin exhibits a prominent doubling of the date on the obverse side, making the numbers appear blurred or doubled.
• Background: The doubling occurred during the minting process when the die struck the planchet twice, slightly misaligned.

2. 1918/7-D Overdate Buffalo Nickel

• Estimated Value: Up to $350,000
• Distinguishing Feature: An overdate error where the ‘7’ is visible beneath the ‘8’ in the coin’s date.
• Background: This error resulted from reusing a 1917 die in 1918, leading to the overdate.

3. 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel

• Estimated Value: Up to $150,000
• Distinguishing Feature: The buffalo on the reverse side appears to have only three legs due to over-polishing of the die.
• Background: This error was caused by excessive die polishing to remove clash marks, inadvertently erasing one of the buffalo’s legs.

4. 1926-S Buffalo Nickel

• Estimated Value: Up to $322,000
• Distinguishing Feature: Low mintage and high-grade specimens are extremely rare.
• Background: With only 970,000 minted, finding this coin in mint condition is exceptionally uncommon.

5. 1954-S S Over D Jefferson Nickel

• Estimated Value: Up to $100
• Distinguishing Feature: The ‘S’ mint mark is stamped over a ‘D’ mint mark.
• Background: This mint mark error occurred when a die intended for Denver was repurposed for San Francisco.

6. 1955-D D Over S Jefferson Nickel

• Estimated Value: Up to $100
• Distinguishing Feature: The ‘D’ mint mark is stamped over an ‘S’ mint mark.
• Background: Similar to the 1954-S, this error resulted from repurposing a die from one mint to another.

7. 1939-D Jefferson Nickel

• Estimated Value: Up to $130
• Distinguishing Feature: Low mintage and Full Steps detail on Monticello.
• Background: The Denver Mint produced only 3.5 million of these coins, and those with Full Steps are particularly valuable.

How to Identify These Valuable Nickels

• Examine the Date and Mint Mark: Carefully inspect the coin’s date and mint mark for any anomalies or errors.
• Look for Doubling: Use a magnifying glass to check for any doubling in the date or lettering.
• Assess the Condition: Coins in mint condition or with minimal wear are more valuable.
• Seek Professional Grading: For high-value coins, consider having them graded by a professional service to authenticate and assess their condition.

While finding one of these rare nickels in your pocket change is unlikely, it’s not impossible. Being aware of the key features that make these coins valuable can help you spot a hidden gem.

Regularly checking your change and consulting with professional coin graders can ensure you don’t miss out on a potential windfall.

FAQs

What makes a nickel valuable?

A nickel’s value is determined by its rarity, condition, and any unique features or errors, such as overdates or mint mark anomalies.

How can I tell if my nickel is valuable?

Examine your nickel for distinguishing features like doubling, overdates, or unique mint marks. Coins in excellent condition are typically more valuable.

Should I clean my old nickels to enhance their value?

No, cleaning coins can reduce their value. It’s best to keep them in their original condition and consult a professional grader for assessment.