History of North America

What is the value of 1955-1965 US nickels?

1955: Melted in large numbers when the price of nickel rose above its face value. Scarce today, especially in Mint State condition.

* Worth a premium over face value. Mint State examples can fetch $10-$20. circulated pieces go for $1.50-$2.

1956

* Circulated examples: A bit more worn than the 1955-D but still fairly common in nice condition. Worth face value.

* Mint State examples: Worth $2-$4.

1957:

* Circulated: Common, worth face value.

* Mint State: More expensive than its brethren because its mintage was interrupted by production of coins for the short-lived Explorer I satellite. Worth $4-$6.

1958 and 1959:

* Same basic values as the 1956.

* Mint State pieces tend to bring a slight premium over those dated 1956 or 1957.

1960 and 1961:

* Extremely common. Worth a premium due to their silver content.

* Melt value: About 12 cents each.

1962 and 1963:

* Values similar to the 1960 and 1961 nickels.

1964 and 1965:

* These coins were produced in enormous quantity (over 1 billion per year).

* Worth face value.