Rare Nickels from JM Bullion

Collecting rare and historic United States coins represents far more than a mere hobby—it is an investment in tangible pieces of American heritage. Each coin tells a story of the era in which it was minted, reflecting the economic conditions, artistic sensibilities, and historical events of its time. From early copper cents to gold double eagles, these numismatic treasures serve as miniature time capsules that connect collectors directly to pivotal moments in the nation’s development.

Shield Nickels

The Shield Nickel, minted from 1866 to 1883, holds the distinction of being the first five-cent piece composed primarily of nickel rather than silver. Introduced in the aftermath of the Civil War, this coin featured a distinctive shield design on the obverse that symbolized the strength and unity of a nation recovering from conflict. The reverse initially displayed the numeral “5” surrounded by stars and rays, though the rays were removed after 1867 due to striking difficulties. Collectors prize well-preserved examples of this series, particularly the rare 1877 and 1878 issues, as they represent an important transitional period in American coinage history.

Liberty Head Nickels

The Liberty Head Nickel, also known as the “V” Nickel, circulated from 1883 to 1913 and became one of America’s most recognizable coin designs. Charles Barber’s elegant portrayal of Liberty wearing a coronet graced the obverse, while a simple Roman numeral “V” encircled by a wreath adorned the reverse. The series is particularly famous for the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel, of which only five specimens were clandestinely produced, making it one of the most valuable and mysterious coins in American numismatics. High-grade examples from the regular production years remain accessible to collectors while offering a glimpse into the Gilded Age and Progressive Era.

Buffalo Nickels

The Buffalo Nickel, officially known as the Indian Head Nickel, represents one of the most artistic and distinctly American coin designs ever produced. Minted from 1913 to 1938, James Earle Fraser’s creation featured a composite portrait of Native American chiefs on the obverse and an American bison on the reverse, celebrating the vanishing frontier. The coin’s raised design elements made it susceptible to heavy wear, making well-preserved specimens particularly desirable to collectors. Key dates such as the 1913-S Type 2, 1914/3 overdate, and 1937-D three-legged variety command premium prices and represent significant achievements for serious numismatists.

Jefferson Nickels

The Jefferson Nickel has served as America’s five-cent piece since 1938, making it the longest-running nickel design in United States history. Felix Schlag’s winning design features Thomas Jefferson’s profile on the obverse and his beloved Monticello estate on the reverse, honoring the third president’s contributions to American democracy. During World War II, the composition temporarily changed to include silver due to wartime nickel shortages, creating the highly collectible “war nickels” of 1942-1945 with their distinctive large mintmarks above Monticello. The series offers collectors an accessible entry point into numismatics while including notable rarities such as the 1939-D, 1950-D, and various full-step designation coins.

Buy Rare Nickels online from JM Bullion

If you have any questions historic US nickels, please feel free to ask. JM Bullion customer service is available at 800-276-6508, online using our web chat, and via our email address. Our Payment Methods page offers valuable insight regarding common payment inquiries.