The V-Nickel gets its name from the big Roman numeral V on the back of the coin. The V-Nickel is sometimes also referred to as Barber nickels, which refers to Charles E. Barber, the coin’s designer. There are 33 different V-Nickels needed to have the entire regular-strike collection in your hands. Yet, the Liberty nickel series is not the easiest coin set to complete.
Most dates in the series are common, especially in the lower circulated grades. However, there are a few truly scarce dates in the series. These are the ones that will take a big nip out of your wallet when you go to buy them. Most collectors desire an 1898 V-Nickel that is in excellent condition.
These coins have been used now for decades, and their condition must be closely inspected. While a coin in any condition may be valuable, coin collectors will often look for coins in near-mint condition. Finding coins in this top condition can be very difficult, however.
When you are inspecting a coin, what you are essentially doing is trying to determine how the coin may be graded. Coin grades are assigned by a professional coin grading company; however, you can use the guidelines below to get an idea of how a graded V-Nickel may appear.
Uncirculated: Coins in uncirculated condition are highly sought after by coin collectors. Because these coins have never been used in circulation, they do not have the typical damage and wear and tear associated with circulation coins. Upon examination, these coins will appear as if they were freshly struck and have not been handled by human hands.
Extremely Fine: Coins that are assigned a grade of extremely fine are also prized by coin collectors. These coins will, however, have some slight surface damage such as scratches. Only under very close inspection will these imperfections be seen, however, and the coin at a glance will appear to be in mint condition.
Fine: Coins that have been assigned a grade of fine have been widely circulated and used, often for many years or more. While the coin’s imagery and details remain robust, the coin may have noticeable scratches or blemishes.
Good: Most of the V-Nickels that are in use today are considered to be in good condition. These coins have been handled million of times over, and will have some significant imperfections on their surfaces. Coin collectors will often avoid coins in this condition, and will seek similar coins in superior condition.
To get an accurate idea of the value of a 1898 V-Nickel, you must first determine what type of nickel it is. First and foremost, assess the coin’s condition. Coins that are in superior condition will often sell for far more than similar coins in a lesser condition. The chart below will help you get a good idea on what you might expect to pay for a 1898 V-Nickel based on the coin’s type and grade.
V-Nickels
DATE | GOOD | FINE | EXTREMELY FINE | UNCIRCULATED |
---|---|---|---|---|
1898 V Nickel | $4 | $12 | $45 | $75 | Source: Red Book |