The US Mint has produced many iconic coins over the years, but their collection of Nickels is easily a collector favorite.These coins are more than 100 years old, but they are readily available on the open market. What is difficult to find, however, is an V-Nickel that is in great condition. Because condition is everything when it comes to coins this old, collectors are always looking for 1904 V-Nickel in pristine condition.
Knowing this, the collector must first consider the type of coin he or she is buying, and then consider the coin’s condition. Because V-Nickels were produced so long ago, it goes without saying that it is quite difficult to find one of these coins in excellent, well-preserved condition.
When you are looking at a coin of this age, it is imperative that you examine the coin’s overall condition. Coin collectors will usually focus on coins in tip-top shape, although coins in a lesser condition can still have some collectible value. Acquiring these coins may be very hard, however, given how long they have existed.
An inspection of the coin is really to accomplish one goal: To determine how that coin might be graded by a professional coin grading company. You can use the guidelines below to get a basic idea of how your coin might be graded based on its condition.
Uncirculated: Uncirculated coins are considered to be top-tier by coin collectors. These coins have not been subjected to years and years of exchanges, and have been handled only minimally. Because of this, these coins will appear to be brand new, hot off the mint’s presses. It is difficult to believe looking at these coins that they were minted over a half century ago.
Extremely Fine: Just a step below on the trading ladder, coins assigned a grade of extremely fine will have only very minimal imperfections. Collectors may pursue coins in this condition as well. Any damage to these coins is, in fact, usually so minimal that it is not noticeable unless a very close inspection is performed.
Fine: Another step down the grading scale, coins in fine condition will still have their images and any text or details fully intact. They may, however, have some noticeable scratches or surface blemishes.
Good: Chances are that any nickels in your pocket would be assigned a grade of good. These coins have been subjected to many years of wear and tear, and they show their age and degree of use. Coin collectors tend to stay away from coins in this condition, favoring coins in superior condition and of superior grade.
There are two major components when it comes to trying to value a coin. You must determine the coin’s condition and possible grade. The chart below will give you an idea as to what a 1904 V-Nickel might be valued at depending on its type and grade.
V-Nickels
DATE | GOOD | FINE | EXTREMELY FINE | UNCIRCULATED |
---|---|---|---|---|
1904 V Nickel | $2 | $4 | $30 | $60 | Source: Red Book |