Your pocket change might be hiding a fortune. Some nickels, worth just five cents at a store, could be valued at millions due to their rarity or unique errors. The claim that certain nickels are worth $78 million each has sparked excitement among collectors and everyday people alike. While this figure seems exaggerated and lacks clear evidence, some rare nickels do command jaw-dropping prices at auctions. This article explores five ultra-rare nickels that could make you rich, how to spot them, and why they’re so special.
The Legendary 1913 Liberty Head Nickel
The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel is one of the rarest coins in the world. Only five were ever made, and they were not meant to be released. The U.S. Mint switched to the Buffalo Nickel design in 1913, but somehow, these five coins were struck with the old Liberty Head design. One sold for $4.56 million in 2018, and experts estimate their value could be even higher today. To identify this nickel, look for the Liberty Head design with “1913” on the front and no mint mark.
| Coin | Key Feature | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|
| 1913 Liberty Head | Liberty Head, 1913 date | Up to $6.25 million |
1918/7-D Buffalo Nickel Overdate
This Buffalo Nickel has a unique error where the date “1918” was stamped over “1917,” making the “7” faintly visible under the “8.” Struck in Denver (marked with a “D”), only about 7,000 exist. A high-quality example sold for $350,750 in 2006. Check your nickels for a Buffalo design with a “D” mint mark and a date that looks like it has two numbers layered. Use a magnifying glass to spot the faint “7” under the “8.”
1926-S Buffalo Nickel Rarity
The 1926-S Buffalo Nickel is rare because only 970,000 were made at the San Francisco Mint, far fewer than other years. Most were heavily used, so finding one in good condition is tough. A top-grade example sold for $322,000 in 2008. Look for a Buffalo Nickel with an “S” mint mark and the year “1926.” Coins in near-perfect condition are the most valuable.
| Coin | Mint Mark | Auction Record |
|---|---|---|
| 1926-S Buffalo | S | $322,000 (2008) |
1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel
This coin is famous for a minting error that makes the buffalo appear to have only three legs. The error happened when the Mint over-polished the die, erasing part of the buffalo’s leg. Only about 300 exist, and one sold for $88,125 in 2015. Check for a Buffalo Nickel with a “D” mint mark and a buffalo missing one front leg. Be cautious, as fakes are common.
1943 Copper Nickel Error
During World War II, nickels were made with silver to save copper for the war effort. However, a few 1943 nickels were accidentally struck in copper. Only one is confirmed, but rumors suggest others might exist. If real, it could be worth millions. Look for a 1943 nickel that’s reddish-brown and doesn’t stick to a magnet. Always verify with a professional, as counterfeits are widespread.
Tips for Finding These Treasures
These rare nickels could still be hiding in coin jars, old collections, or even your change. Start by checking dates, mint marks, and unusual features like errors. A magnifying glass helps spot details like overdates or missing legs. Visit coin shops, flea markets, or estate sales to hunt for treasures. If you think you’ve found a rare nickel, get it appraised by a trusted coin dealer. While $78 million per coin is likely an exaggeration, these nickels are worth thousands or millions, making them exciting finds for any collector.