Top 5 Valuable 1960s Nickels with Errors Worth Thousands

Collecting coins from the 1960s can be exciting, especially Jefferson nickels with rare errors. Certain mistakes made during the minting process can turn a simple nickel into a valuable collectible worth thousands. This guide highlights some of the most valuable 1960s Jefferson nickels with unique errors and explains what makes each one so special.

1960 No Mint Mark Nickel on a One-Cent Planchet

In 1960, the Philadelphia Mint accidentally struck some Jefferson nickels on a one-cent copper planchet (the metal disk used to make coins). These error coins have a copper color, which sets them apart from regular nickels. In high-quality condition, they can sell for up to $3,000, especially if they receive a high-grade certification.

1960-D Full Steps Nickel

The 1960-D Jefferson nickel is valuable if it features “full steps” on the Monticello building on the back. Full steps mean that the steps on Monticello appear in sharp, clear detail. Since achieving this level of detail during minting was challenging, full-step 1960-D nickels are very rare and valuable. A high-grade full-step example can sell for over $4,000 at auctions.

Table of 1960s Jefferson Nickel Errors and Their Values

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

1964-D D Over Horizontal D Mint Mark

In 1964, some nickels minted in Denver had a “D” mint mark stamped over a horizontal “D.” This unique “D over horizontal D” error is highly collectible. In top condition, these coins can fetch as much as $15,000, making it one of the most valuable 1960s Jefferson nickel errors.

1964 Off-Center Strike Nickel

An off-center strike error occurs when a coin is struck outside the usual alignment, resulting in a partial design. Some 1964 nickels were struck off-center, making parts of the design miss from the coin. Coins with a clear off-center strike from 1964, especially those with visible dates, can be worth around $1,000.

1964 Doubled Die Nickel

In 1964, some Jefferson nickels were made with a “doubled die” error. This means parts of the inscriptions appear doubled, most often on the coin’s front side. Strong doubling can make these coins valuable, with prices reaching $2,000 or more for well-preserved examples.

Identifying Rare 1960s Jefferson Nickels in Your Collection

• Check for the Right Errors: Look for the year, mint mark, and specific error type, such as full steps, doubled die, or a misplaced mint mark.
• Examine the Coin’s Condition: High-grade coins (like MS65 and higher) are worth more.
• Get Professional Verification: If you think you have a rare coin, have it professionally graded by a service like PCGS or NGC.

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