Collecting coins from the 1960s can be particularly exciting due to a range of unique and valuable errors found in Jefferson nickels.
These mistakes can elevate a coin’s value from a few cents to thousands of dollars. Here, we explore some of the most valuable 1960s nickels with errors that can bring in substantial amounts for collectors.
1960 No Mint Mark Nickel on a One-Cent Planchet
The Philadelphia Mint made a rare error in 1960 by mistakenly striking some nickels on a one-cent planchet. This error resulted in a nickel that appears copper-colored, distinguishing it from standard Jefferson nickels.
Coins in this error type and excellent condition can sell for up to $3,000 or more, especially if they achieve a high-grade certification.
1960-D Full Steps Nickel
The 1960-D Jefferson nickel is another valuable coin if it displays the “full steps” feature. Full steps refer to the clearly defined steps on the Monticello building, which appear on the reverse of the coin.
Due to minting difficulties, achieving these fine details was challenging, making full-step 1960-D nickels incredibly rare. A high-grade MS67 full-steps example can command prices over $4,000 in auctions.
1964-D D Over Horizontal D
One of the most recognized error types in 1964 nickels is the “D over horizontal D” mint mark. This error occurred when the Denver Mint punched a “D” mint mark on top of an existing horizontal “D,” creating a unique overlay effect.
High-grade examples of this error can fetch as much as $15,000, making it one of the most valuable 1960s Jefferson nickel errors.
1964 Off-Center Strike
Off-center strikes happen when a coin is struck incorrectly, resulting in part of the design being missing. A well-centered off-strike in mint condition from 1964 can significantly increase a nickel’s value, with some examples selling for around $1,000.
Coins with 10%-50% off-center strikes are particularly sought after by collectors, especially when the date is still fully visible.
1964 Doubled Die
The 1964 Doubled Die Jefferson nickel features a unique doubling effect, usually noticeable in the inscriptions on the front side of the coin.
Coins with a strong double-die effect are rare and can bring values of $2,000 or more, depending on their condition and the clarity of the doubling.
Coin Type | Year | Error Type | Approximate Value | Condition |
---|---|---|---|---|
No Mint Mark on 1-Cent Planchet | 1960 | Struck on one-cent planchet | Up to $3,000 | MS64 |
Full Steps | 1960-D | Full steps on Monticello | $4,150 | MS67 |
D Over Horizontal D | 1964-D | Re-punched “D” mint mark | $15,275 | MS66 |
Off-Center Strike | 1964 | Partial design missing | $1,000 | MS65 |
Doubled Die | 1964 | Doubling on inscriptions | $2,000+ | MS65 |
FAQs
These nickels are valuable because of minting errors that make each coin unique. Rare features such as doubled dies, off-center strikes, and re-punched mint marks attract collectors and increase the coins’ worth.
A full-step nickel has clearly defined steps on the Monticello building on the reverse side. If the steps are visible and unbroken, it’s likely a full-steps nickel, adding significant value.
Yes, off-center strike nickels from the 1960s, especially from 1964, are valuable if they’re in good condition and the date is visible. The extent of the off-center strike also impacts the coin’s value.
A doubled die error happens when the coin’s die shifts during minting, causing certain parts of the design to appear doubled. These coins are highly collectible and valuable when the doubling is clear and prominent.
You can have these coins appraised at certified coin grading agencies like PCGS or NGC, which provide an assessment of their condition and authenticity, impacting their potential sale price.