Nickel error coins are highly sought after by collectors, not just for their rarity but also for their fascinating mistakes that reveal the complex processes of coin production. These unique errors can fetch astonishing sums of money, making them prized additions to any collection.
Here’s a look at the top 10 most valuable nickel error coins that have captured the attention of numismatists.
Table of Contents
- 1 1939 Doubled Monticello Nickel
- 2 1954-S S Over D Mint Mark Error
- 3 2005-D Speared Bison Nickel
- 4 2004-P Peace Medal Nickel with Doubled Die Reverse
- 5 1971 No-S Proof Jefferson Nickel
- 6 1942-P Nickel with Overdate (1942/1)
- 7 1938 D Over S Jefferson Nickel
- 8 1964 SMS Jefferson Nickel
- 9 1983-P Jefferson Nickel with Die Clash Error
- 10 2000-P Jefferson Nickel with Off-Center Strike
- 11 FAQs
1939 Doubled Monticello Nickel
The 1939 Doubled Monticello Nickel is one of the most famous error coins in the Jefferson nickel series. The doubling is most visible on the inscriptions “Monticello” and “Five Cents” on the reverse.
Collectors love this coin because the doubling is easy to spot, even for beginners. High-quality specimens with bold doubling can sell for several thousand dollars. This coin’s historical significance and visual appeal make it highly desirable.
1954-S S Over D Mint Mark Error
This fascinating error was produced at the San Francisco Mint when an “S” mint mark was stamped over a “D” mint mark.
Collectors find the over-mintmark error intriguing, especially because the blending of the two mint marks often requires magnification to see clearly. This rare feature adds considerable value to the coin, with high-grade examples commanding premium prices.
2005-D Speared Bison Nickel
The 2005-D Speared Bison Nickel is a standout error from the Westward Journey series. A die gouge on the reverse gives the impression of a spear piercing the bison’s back, creating one of the most visually striking modern error coins.
Uncirculated examples are particularly prized, and this error has quickly become one of the most talked-about nickel mistakes in recent history.
2004-P Peace Medal Nickel with Doubled Die Reverse
Another significant error in the Westward Journey series is the 2004-P Peace Medal Nickel, which features doubling on the reverse. The most noticeable areas of doubling are on the inscriptions “Louisiana Purchase” and “Peace Medal.”
This contemporary error is popular among collectors interested in doubled die coins, especially in higher grades.
1971 No-S Proof Jefferson Nickel
Proof coins are struck with precision, making errors on these coins extremely rare. The 1971 No-S Proof Jefferson Nickel is one such example, missing the “S” mint mark that should have been present.
Only a few examples of this error exist, making it a highly desirable coin for collectors.
1942-P Nickel with Overdate (1942/1)
The 1942/1 overdate error is a well-known treasure in numismatics. During World War II, the U.S. Mint changed the composition of nickels to conserve metal for the war effort.
On some 1942 nickels, traces of a “1” beneath the “2” are clearly visible. This wartime error is rare and highly sought after, especially in higher grades.
1938 D Over S Jefferson Nickel
This mintmark error occurred when a “D” mint mark was stamped over an “S” mint mark. The 1938 D Over S Jefferson Nickel is a prized variety, especially since 1938 was the first year of the Jefferson nickel series.
This unique over-mintmark error significantly boosts the value of the coin.
1964 SMS Jefferson Nickel
The 1964 Special Mint Set (SMS) Jefferson Nickel is a mysterious coin, with a finish and strike quality far superior to regular 1964 nickels. These coins were produced in very limited numbers and are believed to have been part of an experimental set.
Due to their unknown origin and extreme rarity, 1964 SMS nickels are highly collectible and valuable.
1983-P Jefferson Nickel with Die Clash Error
A die clash error occurs when the obverse and reverse dies strike each other without a planchet in between, leaving impressions from one die on the other. The 1983-P Jefferson Nickel with a bold die clash is highly sought after.
Collectors particularly prize examples with clear, visible clash marks, which demonstrate the complexity of the minting process.
2000-P Jefferson Nickel with Off-Center Strike
One of the most noticeable types of mint errors is the off-center strike. The 2000-P Jefferson Nickel is especially coveted when the strike is severely misaligned.
The value of an off-center error depends on the degree of misalignment and how much of the design remains visible. Coins with 50% or more off-center strikes are the most desirable and can fetch significant premiums.
Nickel error coins are proof that mistakes can be valuable. From doubled dies to missing mint marks, these unique coins tell a story about the minting process and offer collectors a chance to own something truly special. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting, hunting for these rare errors can be a fun and rewarding pursuit.
FAQs
What is a doubled die nickel?
A doubled die nickel has doubling on its design elements due to a die error.
How rare is the 1971 No-S Proof Jefferson Nickel?
Extremely rare, with only a few known examples.
What is the Speared Bison Nickel?
A 2005-D nickel with a die gouge that looks like a spear through the bison.
What is a die clash error?
A die clash occurs when the dies strike each other without a planchet.
What is an off-center strike error?
It’s a coin struck outside its normal alignment, creating a misaligned design.
