Levi KeswickKey Takeaways:
- The value of a 1964 nickel can range from five cents to over ten thousand dollars, depending on its condition and type.
- Different categories, such as circulated or uncirculated, mint marks, strike types, and error nickels, contribute to the overall value.
- The 1964 Jefferson nickel has a composition of 75% copper and 25% nickel.
- Special Mint Set (SMS) 1964 nickels struck with “Full Steps” can fetch record prices of over $33,000 at auctions.
- Mint State (M.S.) coins in high grades, such as MS67, are scarce and highly sought after by collectors.
- Various error nickels, like the double die and “D over D” errors, add to the rarity and value of 1964 nickels.
The 1964 Jefferson Nickel: A Guide to Value
The 1964 Jefferson nickel holds a range of values depending on its condition and specific characteristics. To understand the worth of a 1964 nickel, it is essential to delve into various categories associated with this coin.
Circulated or Uncirculated Nickels
The value of a 1964 nickel depends on whether it has been in circulation or remains uncirculated. Uncirculated 1964 nickels are rare and can be worth significantly more than their face value.
Different Mint Marks and Strike Types
Two main mint marks are associated with 1964 nickels: the Philadelphia nickel with no mint mark and the Denver nickel with a “D” mint mark. Additionally, variations in strike types, such as regular strike and Full Steps strike, impact the value.
Rare and Valuable Error Nickels
Error nickels from the 1964 minting year are highly sought after by collectors. Examples of valuable error nickels include the double die error, “D over D” error, quadruple strike error, clipped planchet error, and more.
1964 Nickel Composition
The 1964 nickel is composed of 75% copper and 25% nickel. Understanding the composition helps determine the intrinsic value of the coin.
Assessing the Value of a 1964 Nickel
The value of a 1964 nickel varies based on its condition and type. While the face value remains five cents for all nickels from that year, specific variations can command significant prices in the market.
The Rarity of 1964 Nickels
With a mintage of nearly 2.8 billion, 1964 Jefferson nickels are not considered rare coins. However, finding them in high grades, such as MS65 or higher, is challenging due to their circulation. Only a few hundred 1964 nickels exist in MS67-graded condition, making them valuable collector’s items.
The Design and History of the 1964 Nickel
Designed by Felix Schlag, the 1964 nickel showcases a left-facing bust of President Thomas Jefferson on the obverse side and his Virginia home, Monticello, on the reverse side. This widely circulated coin has been a favorite among collectors and offers an accessible entry point into coin collecting.
How Condition Impacts Value
The condition of a 1964 nickel is crucial in determining its value. Circulated coins in excellent condition can be worth a decent amount once graded. Uncirculated nickels with no visible wear or damage command higher values based on their pristine condition.
Exploring Mint Marks and Their Significance
The Philadelphia nickel from 1964 bears no mint mark, while the Denver nickel carries a “D” mint mark. The presence or absence of a mint mark can affect the rarity and value of the coin.
The Coveted Full Steps Strike
Nickels struck with Full Steps, exhibiting sharp, well-defined steps on the reverse side, are highly sought after by collectors. Despite the high mintage of 1964 nickels, Full Steps examples are extremely rare. Only a few known MS66-grade Full Steps nickels exist, hinting at the possibility of undiscovered high-grade specimens.
Special Mint Strike (SMS) 1964 Nickels
A limited number of Special Mint Strike nickels from 1964 are known to exist. These coins have sharp edges, detailed lines, and a crisp satin finish. They are distinct from proof coins and circulation strike nickels, making them highly valued among collectors.
Unveiling Error Coins from 1964
Numerous error coins add to the allure of 1964 nickels. Examples include the double die error, “D over D” error, quadruple strike error, clipped planchet error, brockage broadstruck error, and various planchet errors. These unique variations make error nickels rare and valuable finds.
Appraising the Value of a 1964 Nickel
To assess the value of a 1964 nickel, it is advisable to consult expert numismatists or reference reputable pricing guides. The condition, specific mint mark, strike type, and potential error variations all play a role in determining the worth of a particular 1964 nickel.
In conclusion, the 1964 Jefferson nickel offers both historical significance and potential value to coin collectors. While its mintage is high, the rarity of high-grade examples, unique strike types, and error variations contribute to the desirability and worth of these nickels. As with any collectible coin, careful examination and authentication are necessary to determine its true value.
