A 5 paise coin, valued crores – Know 5 nickels, which are history-makers!
Coin collecting became formerly a low-key hobby, however now it is a passion to look for rare treasures everywhere in the international. Particularly a few American nickel (5 cent) cash, which appear everyday, but rarity, ancient significance and the story behind them fetch price of crores.
Today we are discussing such 5 special nickel coins whose overall estimated value is approximated to be around 250 million dollars (approximately Rs 2,000 crore). They are not only rare, but they are historical heritage, each of which hides behind a mysterious and different story.
1. 1913 Liberty Head Nickel – which never existed, but nevertheless got minted!
This is regarded as the most popular and costly nickel coin. Its uniqueness lies in the fact that it was never officially intended to be produced. Buffalo Nickel was launched in America in 1913, yet still 5 Liberty Head Nickels were somehow produced.
It could be that these were clandestinely minted by some Mint employee. Nowadays, each of these 5 is worth crores. In 2010, a coin was auctioned for $3.7 million and now its value has gone even higher. Its unknown source and limited supply make it unique.
2. 1969-S Double Die Obverse – The error that turned out to be worth crores
This coin gained popularity due to a unique minting error. The portrait of the date and alphabets on it is stamped twice with a little movement, because of which they appear double.
Because of this “double die” error, this coin has been sold for $2 million (approximately Rs 16 crores) today. Its quantity is also very low, so whoever finds it, it is as if he has won the jackpot!
| Nickel Name | Unique Feature | Estimated Top Value |
| 1913 Liberty Head Nickel | Unauthorized minting, only 5 exist | $5 million |
| 1969-S Double Die Obverse | Double stamping error | $2 million |
| 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo | Missing buffalo leg due to die polishing | $500,000 |
| 1916 Double Die Buffalo | Doubling on date and lettering | $1 million |
| 1942-D Over Horizontal D Nickel | Overstamped mint mark during WWII | $100,000 |
3. 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo – Three-legged Buffalo!
The history of this coin is amusing. When the mold of this coin became worn out at the Denver Mint, one of the legs of the buffalo was inadvertently lost – which left the three-legged buffalo on the reverse side.
Approximately 20,000 coins were made with this error. If it is discovered in great shape, then its worth can be $100,000 to $500,000. Its own entertaining design makes it unique.
4. 1916 Double Die Buffalo – Hidden Treasure
This coin is less flashy, but very scarce. It has a “double die” error as well, but very delicate – only a faint double impression can be seen in “FIVE CENTS” and in the date.
Human beings were not able to identify this error for years, but now if they find it in good condition, then its worth is estimated to be around $1 million (8 crores rupees). This coin is unique for such collectors who are able to identify the details.
5. 1942-D Over Horizontal D – A unique story of wartime
In the Second World War, a special blunder occurred in Denver Mint – the “D” mint mark on the coin was stamped on the old “D” produced in the opposite direction, because of which it began to appear unusual.
Because of this special “Over Horizontal D” coin, today it is being sold for \$40,000 to \$100,000. The historical context of the wartime enhances its value and appeal.
Why are these coins so costly?
There are certain special reasons for such a high cost of these coins:
- Rarity: Certain coins have only 5 or 10 remaining in the world.
- Condition: Unscratched and un-worn coins are much more valuable.
- Minting error: Mistakenly minted coins are generally more precious.
- Historical significance: Like wartime activities, old design, or clandestine minting procedure.
- Demand from collectors: The greater the demand, the greater the price.
Last word – Little coin, great story
These 5 nickels are not only costly coins — they are a piece of history, a case of mistake, and a case of rarity. The history behind each of them is motivating not just for collectors, but for each simple man.
So the next time you notice a 5 cent piece or an old coin in your wallet or piggy bank, take a close look. You may have the next million dollar coin — and be a piece of history!
FAQs
1. Why is the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel so rare and valuable?
Only 5 coins were secretly minted despite official discontinuation. Its mysterious origin and extreme scarcity make it one of the world’s most expensive coins, worth millions at auction.
2. What is special about the 1969-S Double Die Obverse nickel?
It features a doubling error on the date and letters. Because of this minting mistake and low quantity, it’s extremely valuable—sold for up to $2 million.
3. What makes the 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo nickel unique?
Due to over-polishing of the die, the buffalo appears to have only three legs. Its amusing design and error rarity make it highly collectible and worth up to $500,000.
