Nickel Coin Value Checker

The U.S. nickel has remained a staple of American coinage for more than 150 years. Though modest in face value, it holds a wealth of history, design evolution, and collecting potential that make it far more than just spare change.

 Basic Specs

• Value: 5 cents (0.05 USD)
  
• Composition: 75% copper, 25% nickel
  
• Diameter: 21.21 mm
  
• Weight: 5.0 grams
  
• Edge: Plain
  
• Current Obverse: Thomas Jefferson
  
• Reverse: Monticello (since 1938, with brief changes in 2004–2005)

Origins: From Half Dime to Nickel

Before the nickel, there was the silver half dime, minted from 1792 to 1873. However, in 1866, the U.S. Mint introduced the first nickel coin made from a durable copper-nickel alloy. It was designed to replace silver coinage in everyday circulation, especially following the financial pressures of the Civil War.

The Shield Nickel (1866–1883)

The first official nickel featured a shield on the obverse—symbolizing unity in post-war America. Its reverse showed a large “5” surrounded by stars and rays, though the rays were removed in 1867 to ease minting. This coin laid the groundwork for a more practical and resilient small-denomination currency.

The Liberty Head “V” Nickel (1883–1913)

In 1883, the Liberty Head design replaced the Shield nickel. It displayed Lady Liberty wearing a coronet on the obverse and a Roman numeral “V” on the reverse. However, early issues lacked the word “CENTS,” leading to scams where gold-plated versions were passed off as five-dollar gold coins. This prompted the Mint to quickly revise the design.

One of America’s great numismatic mysteries emerged from this era: the 1913 Liberty Head nickel. Though it was never officially authorized, five were somehow struck and later discovered. Today, they’re among the rarest and most valuable coins in existence.

The Buffalo Nickel (1913–1938)

The Buffalo nickel brought a distinctly American aesthetic to coinage. Created by James Earle Fraser, it featured a Native American profile on the obverse and an American bison on the reverse. It celebrated the frontier spirit and the nation’s western heritage.

The original 1913 design (Type I) showed the bison standing on a raised mound. It was quickly altered (Type II) to show the animal on flat ground, to reduce wear on the coin’s denomination.

Although beautiful, the Buffalo nickel wore down quickly, especially around the date. Finding well-preserved examples today can be challenging but rewarding for collectors.

The Jefferson Nickel Begins (1938–2003)

In 1938, the Mint transitioned to a new design honoring Thomas Jefferson. Created by Felix Schlag, the coin featured a left-facing portrait of Jefferson and a depiction of Monticello, his Virginia home, on the reverse. This design remained largely unchanged for over six decades.

The Jefferson nickel became a mainstay of U.S. coinage and is one of the most recognized coins in circulation. Minor modifications were made over time, but the design remained largely faithful to Schlag’s original concept.

War Nickels: 1942–1945

World War II necessitated a temporary change in composition. Nickel was needed for the war effort, so the coin’s metal mix was adjusted to include 35% silver, along with copper and manganese.

These “War Nickels” are unique not only for their composition but also for the large mint mark placed above Monticello. This was the first time a “P” mint mark for Philadelphia appeared on a U.S. coin. These issues are still popular today among collectors and silver stackers.

Westward Journey Series (2004–2005)

To mark the 200th anniversary of the Lewis and Clark Expedition, the Mint launched the Westward Journey Nickel Series. It introduced four reverse designs—the Peace Medal, the Keelboat, the American Bison, and the Ocean in View. Jefferson’s portrait was also updated to a more natural likeness.

These nickels offered a fresh take on the familiar five-cent piece and served to educate the public on a pivotal moment in American history.

Modern Jefferson Nickel (2006–Present)

In 2006, a more contemporary version of the Jefferson nickel debuted. Sculptor Jamie Franki created a forward-facing portrait of Jefferson for the obverse, while the reverse saw a redesigned, more detailed view of Monticello.

This version blends modern design elements with historical reverence and continues to be struck today.

Notable Rarities and Varieties

The U.S. nickel series offers several key dates and rare varieties that excite collectors. Chief among them is the 1913 Liberty Head nickel—of which only five are known to exist. Each is worth millions.

Then there’s the famous 1937-D 3-Legged Buffalo, created due to over-polishing of the die. This dramatic error caused the buffalo to appear to be missing one leg and remains highly sought after.

From 1942–1945, War Nickels offer an affordable entry into silver coin collecting. Meanwhile, the 2005 Speared Bison features a dramatic die gouge running through the animal’s body, making it a standout modern error.

Fun & Notable Facts

• The nickel is named after its alloy—yet it’s mostly copper.
  
• The Jefferson design has been on nickels (with a few breaks) for over 85 years.
  
• Nickels are thicker and heavier than other small U.S. coins, making them ideal for vending machines.

More Than Just a Coin

Beyond collecting, the nickel tells the story of America’s economic and cultural evolution. Its changing materials reflect shifts in industrial demand and wartime needs. Its designs echo the nation’s values—from liberty and unity to exploration and honor.

Even practical concerns about the cost of minting nickels—often higher than their face value—raise important questions about the future of physical currency in a digital world.

Whether you’re sifting through your pocket change or searching dealer showcases, every nickel has a story. From bold redesigns to tiny die errors, the five-cent coin reveals more than meets the eye.

The U.S. nickel is a bridge across centuries of American history. For numismatists and history buffs alike, it offers endless opportunities to explore, learn, and appreciate.