Coin roll hunting can be enjoyable and rewarding; it is perfect when searching for rare and highly valuable nickels. Whether you’re a beginner collector or an established one, getting to know the things to be on the look out for with nickel rolls boosts your chances of locating hidden treasures. Here’s what you need:
Types of Nickels:
When scouring through rolls of nickels, take time to distinguish between the various nickel types in circulation.
Jefferson Nickels (1938–Present): Most common. Look for high-grades and key dates and mintmarks.
Buffalo Nickels (1913–1938): The older, the more desirable. Dates and conditions are crucial in determining their value.
V-Nickels (1883–1912): Not easily found in change but always worth checking for. These vintage coins are very collectible.
Key Dates and Varieties:
Some dates and some varieties of nickels are more valuable than others. Keep an eye out for these specific coins:
Type/Year | Details |
---|---|
1939-D and 1939-S | Jefferson nickels from these years are rare and valuable. |
1950-D Jefferson Nickel | A low-mintage coin highly prized by collectors. |
1942–1945 Silver Nickels | Made with 35% silver during WWII. Recognizable by a large mintmark above Monticello. |
More Valuable Coins
1943-P and 1944-P Silver Nickels: These are part of the wartime silver series and are worth more than their face value.
2009 Jefferson Nickel: Low mintage makes this coin relatively scarce in circulation.
Mint Marks and Condition
Nickels have mint marks that indicate where they were produced:

P: Philadelphia
D: Denver
S: San Francisco
Condition:
The condition of a coin is essential in determining its value. Use a magnifying lens to check for:
Wear and Tear: Coins with less wear are worth more.
Scratches or Flaws: Only collect heavily damaged coins if they are rare errors.
Details: Look for details such as the steps of Monticello or lettering being clear.
Errors and Varieties :Minting errors and unusual varieties can greatly increase a nickel’s value. Keep an eye out for:
Silver Nickels (1942–1945)
Nickel was produced during World War II using the following special alloy with
56% Copper
35% Silver
9% Manganese.

These coins can be identified through their shiny appearance, which differs from that of the usual nickel.
Big Mint Mark: Placed above Monticello on the back.
Specialty Rolls
Rolls containing specific coins increase your chances of obtaining rare coins.\
Older Rolls: Rolls filled with nickels minted prior to 1960 may contain Buffalo or early Jefferson nickels.
Regional Rolls: Coins coming from certain mints or regions may contain specialty coins.
Tips for Successful Hunting
- Use the Right Tools: Obtain a magnifying glass and a coin reference guide.
- Be Persistent: Valuable coins are obtained through time and patience.
- Record finds: Keep a log of rare dates, errors, or unique pieces you find.
The process of searching through nickel rolls can be both enjoyable and rewarding when you know what to look for.
From rare dates and minting errors to silver wartime nickels, there are many treasures waiting to be uncovered. With knowledge, patience, and the right tools, you might just find a gem hidden in your next roll of nickels.
FAQS:
What are some common nickel misstrikes or misprints to search for?
Look for off-center strikes, doubled dies, and die cracks.
Are Buffalo nickels still available in circulation?
Rarely, but they can occasionally be found in older rolls of nickels.
How much is an off-center nickel worth?
Off-center nickels can be worth $20 to $200 or more depending on the misstrike.
What are important dates to seek out in rolls of nickels?
1939-D, 1939-S, 1950-D, and 1942–1945 silver nickels are key dates.
How can I identify a silver nickel?
Silver nickels have an enlarged mintmark over Monticello and appear shiny.