COINHUB COLLECTOR RESOURCES
50 Most Valuable U.S. Nickels
Liberty Head, Buffalo and other five-cent rarities, with the grades and auction results behind the big prices.
Five landmark auction sales
Nickels- 01
$4,560,0001913 Philadelphia Liberty Head nickel (Proof)Aug 15, 2018 - 02
$511,8751918/7-D Denver Buffalo nickel (FS-101 overdate)Feb 11, 2024 - 03
$322,0001926-S San Francisco Buffalo nickelApr 2008 - 04
$264,5001916 Philadelphia doubled die obverse Buffalo nickel (FS-101)Sep 22, 2005 - 05
$240,001.201915 Buffalo nickel, ProofNov 21, 2024
Top 50 nickels
50 coinsActual sales in U.S. dollars. Each price belongs to the named specimen, not every coin of that date.
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01
1913 Philadelphia Liberty Head nickel (Proof)5 cents
Notable auction sale$4,560,000
PCGS PR66, CAC
Representative same-issue PCGS PR63 photograph, certificate 26876914. NOT the Eliasberg PR66 specimen sold in the listed 2018 auction. Photo: PCGS CoinFacts / TrueView 1913 Philadelphia Liberty Head nickel (Proof)
Only five recognized 1913 Liberty Head nickels are known. The Eliasberg specimen's auction is a major public benchmark, separate from subsequent private transactions involving this issue.
What makes this one different
This issue has the Liberty portrait and Roman numeral V reverse, not the ordinary 1913 Buffalo design. A date match or altered coin cannot establish membership in the five-specimen roster.
Nickel errors & varietiesNotable auction sale
$4,560,000- Grade at sale
- PCGS PR66, CAC
- Sold
- Auction house
- Stack's Bowers, ANA Rarities Night, lot 1096
- Specimen / lot
- Eliasberg specimen, PCGS certificate 02823063 at this auction. The representative PR63 photo is not this sold specimen.
PCGS APR includes buyer's premium. Stack's Bowers' own retrospective confirms the actual sale day, August 15, rather than the August 22 date shown in the CoinFacts header.
PCGS APR: 1913 Liberty Head nickel, PR66No later auction result is included for this issue. That does not establish that no later sale occurred.
Further readingPCGS CoinFacts: 1913 Liberty Head nickel PCGS APR: Eliasberg PR66 auction Stack's Bowers: 1913 nickel auction result Stack's Bowers: first million-dollar coin retrospective PCGS: Walton nickel acquired privately by GreatCollections PCGS Auction Prices: premium conventionLink to this coin -
02
1918/7-D Denver Buffalo nickel (FS-101 overdate)5 cents
Notable auction sale$511,875Newer sale: $1,740 (Dec 2025)
PCGS MS65+, CAC
Representative same-issue PCGS MS65+ photograph, certificate 42765424. NOT a sold-specimen illustration; no identity match to either listed auction lot is asserted. Photo: PCGS CoinFacts / TrueView 1918/7-D Denver Buffalo nickel (FS-101 overdate)
The Denver overdate combines remnants of a 7 beneath the final 8. Gem examples are particularly scarce, while the newer circulated specimen shows why a benchmark is not a price for every surviving coin.
What makes this one different
Look for the underlying 7 in the final date digit and the genuine Denver mintmark. An ordinary 1918-D without the overdate is not this FS-101 variety; wear and grade strongly affect value.
Nickel errors & varietiesEarlier documented sale
$511,875- Grade at sale
- PCGS MS65+, CAC
- Sold
- Auction house
- GreatCollections
- Specimen / lot
- PCGS certificate 40262489. No identity match to the older Hennessy or newer VG10 specimen is asserted.
Realized price including buyer's premium, cross-checked against GreatCollections' published realized-price list or sale-results article; not the hammer bid alone.
GreatCollections: 1918/7-D Buffalo Nickel PCGS MS-65+ (CAC Green)Newer documented sale
$1,740- Grade at sale
- CACG VG10
- Sold
- Auction house
- Stack's Bowers, James A. Stack Sr. Collection Part I, lot 22039
- Specimen / lot
- James A. Stack Sr. Collection Part I, CACG certificate 658389918. Different, circulated specimen from the 2006 MS65 benchmark. CACG is explicit in the catalog title despite APR's service column reading NONE. Also different from the newly documented 2024 GreatCollections MS65+ benchmark, certificate 40262489.
PCGS APR reported realization includes buyer's premium. Exact session day not independently verified; month retained.
PCGS APR: 1918/7-D FS-101, CACG VG10 -
03
1926-S San Francisco Buffalo nickel5 cents
Notable auction sale$322,000Newer sale: $2,440 (May 2, 2026)
NGC MS66 at the auction
Representative same-issue PCGS MS65+ photograph, certificate 46633176. NOT a sold-specimen illustration; no identity match to either listed auction lot is asserted. Photo: PCGS CoinFacts / TrueView 1926-S San Francisco Buffalo nickel
Its 970,000 mintage is the lowest among regular Buffalo nickel issues. The exceptional auction benchmark should be separated from prices for circulated survivors and from any later change in the specimen's certified grade.
What makes this one different
Confirm the 1926 date and S mintmark beneath FIVE CENTS. Philadelphia and Denver examples are different issues; a circulated or weakly struck 1926-S is not equivalent to the auction's NGC MS66 specimen.
Nickel errors & varietiesEarlier documented sale
$322,000- Grade at sale
- NGC MS66 at the auction
- Sold
- Auction house
- Bowers & Merena, April 2008 Chicago Rarities Sale, lot 218
- Specimen / lot
- NGC MS66 specimen in Bowers & Merena lot 218; auction certificate not supplied in APR. CoinFacts later places this auction history under a PCGS MS65 entry, which is not the auction-time grade.
PCGS APR includes final bid plus buyer's premium. April 2008 is verified; the exact session day is not asserted.
PCGS APR: 1926-S Buffalo nickel, NGC MS66Newer documented sale
$2,440- Grade at sale
- NGC AU55
- Sold
- Auction house
- Heritage Auctions, CSNS, auction 1393, lot 7030
- Specimen / lot
- Larch Tree Collection, NGC certificate 6833849008 as transcribed by PCGS APR. Different, circulated specimen from the 2008 NGC MS66 benchmark.
Heritage's published sold realization includes the stated 22% buyer's premium; actual lot sold date is May 2.
Heritage 1393/7030: 1926-S Buffalo nickel, AU55 -
04
1916 Philadelphia doubled die obverse Buffalo nickel (FS-101)5 cents
Notable auction sale$264,500Newer sale: $4,440 (Nov 2025)
PCGS MS64
Representative same-issue PCGS MS64 photograph, certificate 42543792. NOT a sold-specimen illustration; no identity match to either listed auction lot is asserted. Photo: PCGS CoinFacts / TrueView 1916 Philadelphia doubled die obverse Buffalo nickel (FS-101)
Strong obverse doubling makes this a major Buffalo nickel variety. The featured Mint State coin and newer Good-grade example demonstrate the importance of comparing attributed specimens at their actual grades.
What makes this one different
Confirm the conspicuously doubled date of FS-101, not merely a 1916 date. A normal Buffalo nickel, worn date, or indistinct surface mark does not establish this doubled-die variety.
Nickel errors & varietiesEarlier documented sale
$264,500- Grade at sale
- PCGS MS64
- Sold
- Auction house
- Heritage Auctions, Long Beach Signature, auction 384, lot 1853
- Specimen / lot
- PCGS certificate 21620854, later Joseph C. Thomas Collection. Catalog used the older FS-016 designation for the variety now listed as FS-101. Different from the newer NGC G6 specimen.
Heritage's published sold realization includes its stated 15% buyer's premium. September 22 is explicitly the sold day. This is a significant verified benchmark, not a maximum-price claim.
Heritage 384/1853: 1916 doubled die, MS64Newer documented sale
$4,440- Grade at sale
- NGC G6
- Sold
- Auction house
- Stack's Bowers, November 2025 Collectors Choice Online U.S. Coins, lot 94080
- Specimen / lot
- NGC certificate 6877767001 as transcribed by PCGS APR. Different, heavily circulated FS-101 specimen from the 2005 PCGS MS64 benchmark. Exact session day not verified.
PCGS APR reported realization includes buyer's premium; only the month is established by the cited record.
PCGS APR: 1916 doubled die, NGC G6 -
05
1915 Buffalo nickel, Proof5 cents
Notable auction sale$240,001.20
PCGS PR69
PCGS certificate 49691151, matched to the benchmark auction lot by its certificate number. The gallery was explicitly labeled TrueView. Photo: PCGS TrueView 1915 Buffalo nickel, Proof
The selected PR69 proof is an exceptional preservation example. The price is attached to this specimen, not to all 1915 nickels.
What makes this one different
Confirm proof manufacture and the certified grade; a sharp business strike is not automatically a matte proof.
Nickel errors & varietiesNotable auction sale
$240,001.20- Grade at sale
- PCGS PR69
- Sold
- Auction house
- Heritage Auctions
- Specimen / lot
- The PCGS PR69 specimen in the cited auction result. No unverified pedigree or certificate identity is inferred.
Reported auction realization including buyer's premium under PCGS Auction Prices' stated convention. The original auction lot supplies the sold date.
Heritage Auctions: 1915 Buffalo nickel, ProofNo later auction result is included for this issue. That does not establish that no later sale occurred.
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06
1913-D Buffalo nickel, Type 25 cents
Notable auction sale$143,750
NGC MS68
Representative same-issue specimen, PCGS certificate 56922947; NOT identified as the listed auction specimen. Grade and color may differ from the benchmark. Photo: PCGS TrueView 1913-D Buffalo nickel, Type 2
This Denver issue uses the revised Type 2 reverse rather than the original raised-mound design.
What makes this one different
Check the D mintmark below FIVE CENTS and the Type 2 reverse. Neither a Type 1 Denver coin nor a Philadelphia coin matches the issue.
Nickel errors & varietiesNotable auction sale
$143,750- Grade at sale
- NGC MS68
- Sold
- Auction house
- Bowers & Merena
- Specimen / lot
- The NGC MS68 specimen in the cited auction result. No unverified pedigree or certificate identity is inferred.
Reported auction realization including buyer's premium under PCGS Auction Prices' stated convention. Month precision retained because the exact lot-closing day was not independently established.
PCGS Auction Prices: 1913-D Buffalo nickel, Type 2No later auction result is included for this issue. That does not establish that no later sale occurred.
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07
1917-S Buffalo nickel5 cents
Notable auction sale$138,000
NGC MS67
Representative same-issue PCGS MS67 specimen; no identity match to the benchmark sale is asserted. Photo: PCGS TrueView 1917-S Buffalo nickel
San Francisco's 1917 Buffalo nickel is represented here by a NGC MS67 auction specimen. Exceptional preservation is essential to this result.
What makes this one different
Confirm the S mintmark below FIVE CENTS and check for alteration. Wear, weak striking, cleaning and surface damage make ordinary examples unlike the benchmark.
Nickel errors & varietiesNotable auction sale
$138,000- Grade at sale
- NGC MS67
- Sold
- Auction house
- Heritage Auctions
- Specimen / lot
- The NGC MS67 specimen in the cited auction result. No unverified pedigree or certificate identity is inferred.
Reported auction realization including buyer's premium under PCGS Auction Prices' stated convention. The original auction lot supplies the sold date.
Heritage Auctions: 1917-S Buffalo nickelNo later auction result is included for this issue. That does not establish that no later sale occurred.
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08
1920-D Buffalo nickel5 cents
Notable auction sale$138,000
NGC MS67
Representative same-issue PCGS MS66 specimen; no identity match to the benchmark sale is asserted. Photo: PCGS TrueView 1920-D Buffalo nickel
Denver's 1920 Buffalo nickel is represented here by a NGC MS67 auction specimen. Exceptional preservation is essential to this result.
What makes this one different
Confirm the D mintmark below FIVE CENTS and check for alteration. Wear, weak striking, cleaning and surface damage make ordinary examples unlike the benchmark.
Nickel errors & varietiesNotable auction sale
$138,000- Grade at sale
- NGC MS67
- Sold
- Auction house
- Bowers & Merena
- Specimen / lot
- The NGC MS67 specimen in the cited auction result. No unverified pedigree or certificate identity is inferred.
Reported auction realization including buyer's premium under PCGS Auction Prices' stated convention. Month precision retained because the exact lot-closing day was not independently established.
PCGS Auction Prices: 1920-D Buffalo nickelNo later auction result is included for this issue. That does not establish that no later sale occurred.
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09
1867 Shield nickel, With Rays, Proof5 cents
Notable auction sale$132,250
NGC PR66 Cameo
Representative same-issue PCGS PR66CAM specimen; no identity match to the benchmark sale is asserted. Photo: PCGS TrueView 1867 Shield nickel, With Rays, Proof
The rays reverse and proof manufacture distinguish this issue from both regular strikes and the No Rays proofs.
What makes this one different
Identify the rays and proof die characteristics together; an 1867 date alone does not establish the valuable issue.
Nickel errors & varietiesNotable auction sale
$132,250- Grade at sale
- NGC PR66 Cameo
- Sold
- Auction house
- Heritage Auctions
- Specimen / lot
- The NGC PR66 Cameo specimen in the cited auction result. No unverified pedigree or certificate identity is inferred.
Reported auction realization including buyer's premium under PCGS Auction Prices' stated convention. The original auction lot supplies the sold date.
Heritage Auctions: 1867 Shield nickel, With Rays, ProofNo later auction result is included for this issue. That does not establish that no later sale occurred.
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10
1918-S Buffalo nickel5 cents
Notable auction sale$125,350
NGC MS66
Representative same-issue PCGS MS66 specimen; no identity match to the benchmark sale is asserted. Photo: PCGS TrueView 1918-S Buffalo nickel
San Francisco's 1918 Buffalo nickel is represented here by a NGC MS66 auction specimen. Exceptional preservation is essential to this result.
What makes this one different
Confirm the S mintmark below FIVE CENTS and check for alteration. Wear, weak striking, cleaning and surface damage make ordinary examples unlike the benchmark.
Nickel errors & varietiesNotable auction sale
$125,350- Grade at sale
- NGC MS66
- Sold
- Auction house
- Bowers & Merena
- Specimen / lot
- The NGC MS66 specimen in the cited auction result. No unverified pedigree or certificate identity is inferred.
Reported auction realization including buyer's premium under PCGS Auction Prices' stated convention. Month precision retained because the exact lot-closing day was not independently established.
PCGS Auction Prices: 1918-S Buffalo nickelNo later auction result is included for this issue. That does not establish that no later sale occurred.
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11
1927-S Buffalo nickel5 cents
Notable auction sale$125,350
NGC MS66*
Representative same-issue PCGS MS66 specimen; no identity match to the benchmark sale is asserted. Photo: PCGS TrueView 1927-S Buffalo nickel
San Francisco's 1927 Buffalo nickel is represented here by a NGC MS66* auction specimen. Exceptional preservation is essential to this result.
What makes this one different
Confirm the S mintmark below FIVE CENTS and check for alteration. Wear, weak striking, cleaning and surface damage make ordinary examples unlike the benchmark.
Nickel errors & varietiesNotable auction sale
$125,350- Grade at sale
- NGC MS66*
- Sold
- Auction house
- Bowers & Merena
- Specimen / lot
- The NGC MS66* specimen in the cited auction result. No unverified pedigree or certificate identity is inferred.
Reported auction realization including buyer's premium under PCGS Auction Prices' stated convention. Month precision retained because the exact lot-closing day was not independently established.
PCGS Auction Prices: 1927-S Buffalo nickelNo later auction result is included for this issue. That does not establish that no later sale occurred.
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12
1880 Shield nickel, Business Strike5 cents
Notable auction sale$117,500Newer sale: $99,875 (Jan 2022)
PCGS MS66
PCGS certificate 35367614, matching the listed newer auction specimen. Identity with the earlier benchmark is not assumed. Photo: PCGS TrueView 1880 Shield nickel, Business Strike
The 1880 circulation-strike Shield nickel is a different issue from the much more available proof. The auction history must be separated from unsold appearances and fixed-price offers.
What makes this one different
Prooflike business strikes and imperfect proofs can resemble one another. Require expert strike attribution rather than relying only on reflective fields.
Nickel errors & varietiesEarlier documented sale
$117,500- Grade at sale
- PCGS MS66
- Sold
- Auction house
- Heritage Auctions, lot 4032
- Specimen / lot
- Just Having Fun Collection specimen. CoinFacts explicitly distinguishes this sold lot from unsold appearances in 2014 and 2016.
Auction realization as reported in PCGS CoinFacts. Month precision retained; not the $198,995 eBay Best Offer headline.
PCGS CoinFacts: 1880 Shield nickel, condition-census auction historyNewer documented sale
$99,875- Grade at sale
- PCGS MS66
- Sold
- Auction house
- Legend Rare Coin Auctions, Regency 50, lot 55
- Specimen / lot
- PCGS certificate 35367614. No certificate match to the 2015 specimen is assumed.
PCGS APR reported auction realization includes buyer's premium; month precision retained.
PCGS APR: 1880 Shield nickel, Legend Regency 50 -
13
1919-S Buffalo nickel5 cents
Notable auction sale$109,250
PCGS MS66
Representative same-issue PCGS MS66 specimen; no identity match to the benchmark sale is asserted. Photo: PCGS TrueView 1919-S Buffalo nickel
San Francisco's 1919 Buffalo nickel is represented here by a PCGS MS66 auction specimen. Exceptional preservation is essential to this result.
What makes this one different
Confirm the S mintmark below FIVE CENTS and check for alteration. Wear, weak striking, cleaning and surface damage make ordinary examples unlike the benchmark.
Nickel errors & varietiesNotable auction sale
$109,250- Grade at sale
- PCGS MS66
- Sold
- Auction house
- Heritage Auctions
- Specimen / lot
- The PCGS MS66 specimen in the cited auction result. No unverified pedigree or certificate identity is inferred.
Reported auction realization including buyer's premium under PCGS Auction Prices' stated convention. The original auction lot supplies the sold date.
Heritage Auctions: 1919-S Buffalo nickelNo later auction result is included for this issue. That does not establish that no later sale occurred.
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14
1924-S Buffalo nickel5 cents
Notable auction sale$105,750
PCGS MS66+
Representative same-issue PCGS MS66+ specimen; no identity match to the benchmark sale is asserted. Photo: PCGS TrueView 1924-S Buffalo nickel
San Francisco's 1924 Buffalo nickel is represented here by a PCGS MS66+ auction specimen. Exceptional preservation is essential to this result.
What makes this one different
Confirm the S mintmark below FIVE CENTS and check for alteration. Wear, weak striking, cleaning and surface damage make ordinary examples unlike the benchmark.
Nickel errors & varietiesNotable auction sale
$105,750- Grade at sale
- PCGS MS66+
- Sold
- Auction house
- Stack's Bowers
- Specimen / lot
- The PCGS MS66+ specimen in the cited auction result. No unverified pedigree or certificate identity is inferred.
Reported auction realization including buyer's premium under PCGS Auction Prices' stated convention. Month precision retained because the exact lot-closing day was not independently established.
PCGS Auction Prices: 1924-S Buffalo nickelNo later auction result is included for this issue. That does not establish that no later sale occurred.
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15
1935 Buffalo nickel, Doubled Die Reverse5 cents
Notable auction sale$104,650
PCGS MS65
Representative same-issue PCGS MS66 specimen; no identity match to the benchmark sale is asserted. Photo: PCGS TrueView 1935 Buffalo nickel, Doubled Die Reverse
The doubled reverse die creates a separate variety from the normal-reverse 1935 issue.
What makes this one different
Match the recognized reverse doubling, especially in the inscriptions, to an attribution reference. Flat machine doubling and damage do not qualify.
Nickel errors & varietiesNotable auction sale
$104,650- Grade at sale
- PCGS MS65
- Sold
- Auction house
- Bowers & Merena
- Specimen / lot
- The PCGS MS65 specimen in the cited auction result. No unverified pedigree or certificate identity is inferred.
Reported auction realization including buyer's premium under PCGS Auction Prices' stated convention. Month precision retained because the exact lot-closing day was not independently established.
PCGS Auction Prices: 1935 Buffalo nickel, Doubled Die ReverseNo later auction result is included for this issue. That does not establish that no later sale occurred.
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16
1937-D Buffalo nickel, Three-Legged5 cents
Notable auction sale$99,875
PCGS MS66+
Exact benchmark specimen: PCGS CoinFacts condition-census history explicitly identifies certificate 41700166 with the October 2021 Legend lot 297 realization of $99,875. The current PCGS certificate viewer supplies the service-owned TrueView. Photo: PCGS TrueView 1937-D Buffalo nickel, Three-Legged
This Denver die variety is identified by the missing front leg caused by die polishing.
What makes this one different
Do not rely on a missing leg alone; altered normal nickels exist. Check the remaining die markers and the D mintmark.
Nickel errors & varietiesNotable auction sale
$99,875- Grade at sale
- PCGS MS66+
- Sold
- Auction house
- Legend Rare Coin Auctions
- Specimen / lot
- The PCGS MS66+ specimen in the cited auction result. No unverified pedigree or certificate identity is inferred.
Reported auction realization including buyer's premium under PCGS Auction Prices' stated convention. Month precision retained because the exact lot-closing day was not independently established.
PCGS Auction Prices: 1937-D Buffalo nickel, Three-LeggedNo later auction result is included for this issue. That does not establish that no later sale occurred.
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17
1913 Buffalo nickel, Type 1, Proof5 cents
Notable auction sale$96,937.50
PCGS PR68
Representative same-issue PCGS PR68 specimen; no identity match to the benchmark sale is asserted. Photo: PCGS TrueView 1913 Buffalo nickel, Type 1, Proof
This is a proof with the original raised-mound reverse, separate from the Type 1 business strike.
What makes this one different
Establish matte-proof manufacture and the Type 1 reverse. A dull or cleaned circulation strike is not a proof.
Nickel errors & varietiesNotable auction sale
$96,937.50- Grade at sale
- PCGS PR68
- Sold
- Auction house
- Legend Rare Coin Auctions
- Specimen / lot
- The PCGS PR68 specimen in the cited auction result. No unverified pedigree or certificate identity is inferred.
Reported auction realization including buyer's premium under PCGS Auction Prices' stated convention. Month precision retained because the exact lot-closing day was not independently established.
PCGS Auction Prices: 1913 Buffalo nickel, Type 1, ProofNo later auction result is included for this issue. That does not establish that no later sale occurred.
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18
1925-S Buffalo nickel5 cents
Notable auction sale$87,400
NGC MS66
Representative same-issue PCGS MS66 specimen; no identity match to the benchmark sale is asserted. Photo: PCGS TrueView 1925-S Buffalo nickel
San Francisco's 1925 Buffalo nickel is represented here by a NGC MS66 auction specimen. Exceptional preservation is essential to this result.
What makes this one different
Confirm the S mintmark below FIVE CENTS and check for alteration. Wear, weak striking, cleaning and surface damage make ordinary examples unlike the benchmark.
Nickel errors & varietiesNotable auction sale
$87,400- Grade at sale
- NGC MS66
- Sold
- Auction house
- Bowers & Merena
- Specimen / lot
- The NGC MS66 specimen in the cited auction result. No unverified pedigree or certificate identity is inferred.
Reported auction realization including buyer's premium under PCGS Auction Prices' stated convention. Month precision retained because the exact lot-closing day was not independently established.
PCGS Auction Prices: 1925-S Buffalo nickelNo later auction result is included for this issue. That does not establish that no later sale occurred.
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19
1879/8 Shield nickel, Proof5 cents
Notable auction sale$84,000
PCGS PR69
Representative same-issue PCGS PR68 specimen; no identity match to the benchmark sale is asserted. Photo: PCGS TrueView 1879/8 Shield nickel, Proof
This proof overdate combines the Shield design with a repunched date. The selected sale was a PCGS PR69 specimen.
What makes this one different
Check the underlying 8 and the correct proof dies; do not transfer the result to a normal-date 1879 proof.
Nickel errors & varietiesNotable auction sale
$84,000- Grade at sale
- PCGS PR69
- Sold
- Auction house
- Heritage Auctions
- Specimen / lot
- The PCGS PR69 specimen in the cited auction result. No unverified pedigree or certificate identity is inferred.
Reported auction realization including buyer's premium under PCGS Auction Prices' stated convention. The original auction lot supplies the sold date.
Heritage Auctions: 1879/8 Shield nickel, ProofNo later auction result is included for this issue. That does not establish that no later sale occurred.
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20
1910 Liberty Head nickel, Proof5 cents
Notable auction sale$84,000
PCGS PR68 Deep Cameo, CAC
PCGS certificate 35082726, matched to the benchmark auction lot by its certificate number. The gallery was explicitly labeled TrueView. Photo: PCGS TrueView 1910 Liberty Head nickel, Proof
This auction involved a PR68 Deep Cameo proof. Its condition and contrast are central to the result.
What makes this one different
Proof status and deep cameo contrast need expert assessment. These are not separate date varieties and are not inferred from image brightness.
Nickel errors & varietiesNotable auction sale
$84,000- Grade at sale
- PCGS PR68 Deep Cameo, CAC
- Sold
- Auction house
- Heritage Auctions
- Specimen / lot
- The PCGS PR68 Deep Cameo, CAC specimen in the cited auction result. No unverified pedigree or certificate identity is inferred.
Reported auction realization including buyer's premium under PCGS Auction Prices' stated convention. The original auction lot supplies the sold date.
Heritage Auctions: 1910 Liberty Head nickel, ProofNo later auction result is included for this issue. That does not establish that no later sale occurred.
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21
1913-S Buffalo nickel, Type 25 cents
Notable auction sale$84,000
PCGS MS67+, CAC
PCGS certificate 57241952, matched to the benchmark auction lot by its certificate number. The gallery was explicitly labeled TrueView. Photo: PCGS TrueView 1913-S Buffalo nickel, Type 2
The San Francisco Type 2 issue is distinct from both the earlier reverse and the other mints' 1913 nickels.
What makes this one different
Confirm the S mintmark and revised reverse, and examine the mintmark for alteration before comparing it with the MS67+ specimen.
Nickel errors & varietiesNotable auction sale
$84,000- Grade at sale
- PCGS MS67+, CAC
- Sold
- Auction house
- Heritage Auctions
- Specimen / lot
- The PCGS MS67+, CAC specimen in the cited auction result. No unverified pedigree or certificate identity is inferred.
Reported auction realization including buyer's premium under PCGS Auction Prices' stated convention. The original auction lot supplies the sold date.
Heritage Auctions: 1913-S Buffalo nickel, Type 2No later auction result is included for this issue. That does not establish that no later sale occurred.
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22
1913 Buffalo nickel, Type 1, Business Strike5 cents
Notable auction sale$79,312.50
PCGS MS68+
Representative same-issue PCGS MS68+ specimen; no identity match to the benchmark sale is asserted. Photo: PCGS TrueView 1913 Buffalo nickel, Type 1, Business Strike
The initial Buffalo reverse places the animal on a raised mound. This price is for an exceptional business strike.
What makes this one different
Confirm the Type 1 mound and circulation-strike classification; the separately listed Type 1 proof is a different strike.
Nickel errors & varietiesNotable auction sale
$79,312.50- Grade at sale
- PCGS MS68+
- Sold
- Auction house
- Legend Rare Coin Auctions
- Specimen / lot
- The PCGS MS68+ specimen in the cited auction result. No unverified pedigree or certificate identity is inferred.
Reported auction realization including buyer's premium under PCGS Auction Prices' stated convention. Month precision retained because the exact lot-closing day was not independently established.
PCGS Auction Prices: 1913 Buffalo nickel, Type 1, Business StrikeNo later auction result is included for this issue. That does not establish that no later sale occurred.
Further readingPCGS Auction Prices: 1913 Buffalo nickel, Type 1, Business Strike Legend Rare Coin Auctions: original auction lot for 1913 Buffalo nickel, Type 1, Business Strike PCGS certificate 47457333: verified TrueView photograph PCGS CoinFacts: matching issue photograph referenceLink to this coin -
23
1927 Buffalo nickel, Special Strike5 cents
Notable auction sale$78,000
PCGS SP65, CAC
Representative same-issue PCGS SP66+ specimen; no identity match to the benchmark sale is asserted. Photo: PCGS TrueView 1927 Buffalo nickel, Special Strike
This specimen is certified SP65, reflecting a special-strike classification rather than a normal business strike.
What makes this one different
The experimental surfaces require specialist comparison and certification. Do not infer special-strike status from unusual luster alone.
Nickel errors & varietiesNotable auction sale
$78,000- Grade at sale
- PCGS SP65, CAC
- Sold
- Auction house
- Heritage Auctions
- Specimen / lot
- The PCGS SP65, CAC specimen in the cited auction result. No unverified pedigree or certificate identity is inferred.
Reported auction realization including buyer's premium under PCGS Auction Prices' stated convention. The original auction lot supplies the sold date.
Heritage Auctions: 1927 Buffalo nickel, Special StrikeNo later auction result is included for this issue. That does not establish that no later sale occurred.
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24
1885 Liberty Head nickel5 cents
Notable auction sale$74,750
PCGS MS67
Representative same-issue specimen, PCGS certificate 49629255; NOT identified as the listed auction specimen. Grade and color may differ from the benchmark. Photo: PCGS TrueView 1885 Liberty Head nickel
Philadelphia's 1885 Liberty Head nickel is represented here by a PCGS MS67 auction specimen. Exceptional preservation is essential to this result.
What makes this one different
Confirm the date and absence of a mintmark. Wear, weak striking, cleaning and surface damage make ordinary examples unlike the benchmark.
Nickel errors & varietiesNotable auction sale
$74,750- Grade at sale
- PCGS MS67
- Sold
- Auction house
- American Numismatic Rarities
- Specimen / lot
- The PCGS MS67 specimen in the cited auction result. No unverified pedigree or certificate identity is inferred.
Reported auction realization including buyer's premium under PCGS Auction Prices' stated convention. Month precision retained because the exact lot-closing day was not independently established.
PCGS Auction Prices: 1885 Liberty Head nickelNo later auction result is included for this issue. That does not establish that no later sale occurred.
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25
1895 Liberty Head nickel, Proof5 cents
Notable auction sale$73,437.50
PCGS PR68
Representative same-issue PCGS PR66DCAM specimen; no identity match to the benchmark sale is asserted. Photo: PCGS TrueView 1895 Liberty Head nickel, Proof
The selected PR68 sale illustrates how exceptional proof preservation can command more than an ordinary date example.
What makes this one different
Confirm the proof strike and check for cleaning, haze and hairlines; the date does not confer the benchmark value on circulated coins.
Nickel errors & varietiesNotable auction sale
$73,437.50- Grade at sale
- PCGS PR68
- Sold
- Auction house
- Legend Rare Coin Auctions
- Specimen / lot
- The PCGS PR68 specimen in the cited auction result. No unverified pedigree or certificate identity is inferred.
Reported auction realization including buyer's premium under PCGS Auction Prices' stated convention. Month precision retained because the exact lot-closing day was not independently established.
PCGS Auction Prices: 1895 Liberty Head nickel, ProofNo later auction result is included for this issue. That does not establish that no later sale occurred.
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26
1926-D Buffalo nickel5 cents
Notable auction sale$70,500
PCGS MS67
Representative same-issue PCGS MS67 specimen; no identity match to the benchmark sale is asserted. Photo: PCGS TrueView 1926-D Buffalo nickel
Denver's 1926 Buffalo nickel is represented here by a PCGS MS67 auction specimen. Exceptional preservation is essential to this result.
What makes this one different
Confirm the D mintmark below FIVE CENTS and check for alteration. Wear, weak striking, cleaning and surface damage make ordinary examples unlike the benchmark.
Nickel errors & varietiesNotable auction sale
$70,500- Grade at sale
- PCGS MS67
- Sold
- Auction house
- Legend Rare Coin Auctions
- Specimen / lot
- The PCGS MS67 specimen in the cited auction result. No unverified pedigree or certificate identity is inferred.
Reported auction realization including buyer's premium under PCGS Auction Prices' stated convention. Month precision retained because the exact lot-closing day was not independently established.
PCGS Auction Prices: 1926-D Buffalo nickelNo later auction result is included for this issue. That does not establish that no later sale occurred.
-
27
1923-S Buffalo nickel5 cents
Notable auction sale$67,562.50
PCGS MS66, CAC
Representative same-issue PCGS MS66 specimen; no identity match to the benchmark sale is asserted. Photo: PCGS TrueView 1923-S Buffalo nickel
San Francisco's 1923 Buffalo nickel is represented here by a PCGS MS66 auction specimen. Exceptional preservation is essential to this result.
What makes this one different
Confirm the S mintmark below FIVE CENTS and check for alteration. Wear, weak striking, cleaning and surface damage make ordinary examples unlike the benchmark.
Nickel errors & varietiesNotable auction sale
$67,562.50- Grade at sale
- PCGS MS66, CAC
- Sold
- Auction house
- Heritage Auctions
- Specimen / lot
- The PCGS MS66, CAC specimen in the cited auction result. No unverified pedigree or certificate identity is inferred.
Reported auction realization including buyer's premium under PCGS Auction Prices' stated convention. The original auction lot supplies the sold date.
Heritage Auctions: 1923-S Buffalo nickelNo later auction result is included for this issue. That does not establish that no later sale occurred.
-
28
1913 Buffalo nickel, Type 2, Proof5 cents
Notable auction sale$66,700
PCGS PR68
Representative same-issue PCGS PR68+ specimen; no identity match to the benchmark sale is asserted. Photo: PCGS TrueView 1913 Buffalo nickel, Type 2, Proof
The Type 2 proof combines the revised reverse with special proof manufacture.
What makes this one different
Verify the Type 2 reverse and proof diagnostics. This is not a separate entry merely because of a different numeric grade.
Nickel errors & varietiesNotable auction sale
$66,700- Grade at sale
- PCGS PR68
- Sold
- Auction house
- Bowers & Merena
- Specimen / lot
- The PCGS PR68 specimen in the cited auction result. No unverified pedigree or certificate identity is inferred.
Reported auction realization including buyer's premium under PCGS Auction Prices' stated convention. Month precision retained because the exact lot-closing day was not independently established.
PCGS Auction Prices: 1913 Buffalo nickel, Type 2, ProofNo later auction result is included for this issue. That does not establish that no later sale occurred.
-
29
1886 Liberty Head nickel5 cents
Notable auction sale$64,625
PCGS MS67
Representative same-issue specimen, PCGS certificate 59425833; NOT identified as the listed auction specimen. Grade and color may differ from the benchmark. Photo: PCGS TrueView 1886 Liberty Head nickel
Philadelphia's 1886 Liberty Head nickel is represented here by a PCGS MS67 auction specimen. Exceptional preservation is essential to this result.
What makes this one different
Confirm the date and absence of a mintmark. Wear, weak striking, cleaning and surface damage make ordinary examples unlike the benchmark.
Nickel errors & varietiesNotable auction sale
$64,625- Grade at sale
- PCGS MS67
- Sold
- Auction house
- Legend Rare Coin Auctions
- Specimen / lot
- The PCGS MS67 specimen in the cited auction result. No unverified pedigree or certificate identity is inferred.
Reported auction realization including buyer's premium under PCGS Auction Prices' stated convention. Month precision retained because the exact lot-closing day was not independently established.
PCGS Auction Prices: 1886 Liberty Head nickelNo later auction result is included for this issue. That does not establish that no later sale occurred.
-
30
1914/(3) Buffalo nickel, Attributed Variety5 cents
Notable auction sale$63,250
PCGS MS65
Representative same-issue PCGS MS66 specimen; no identity match to the benchmark sale is asserted. Photo: PCGS TrueView 1914/(3) Buffalo nickel, Attributed Variety
PCGS catalogs this variety as 1914/(3); the selected historic sale uses the older 1914/3 label.
What makes this one different
Do not call every irregular 1914 date an overdate. Require the recognized die attribution; the parenthesized label preserves the source's qualification.
Nickel errors & varietiesNotable auction sale
$63,250- Grade at sale
- PCGS MS65
- Sold
- Auction house
- Heritage Auctions
- Specimen / lot
- The PCGS MS65 specimen in the cited auction result. No unverified pedigree or certificate identity is inferred.
Reported auction realization including buyer's premium under PCGS Auction Prices' stated convention. The original auction lot supplies the sold date.
Heritage Auctions: 1914/(3) Buffalo nickel, Attributed VarietyNo later auction result is included for this issue. That does not establish that no later sale occurred.
-
31
1929 Buffalo nickel5 cents
Notable auction sale$63,250
PCGS MS67
Representative same-issue PCGS MS67+ specimen; no identity match to the benchmark sale is asserted. Photo: PCGS TrueView 1929 Buffalo nickel
Philadelphia's 1929 Buffalo nickel is represented here by a PCGS MS67 auction specimen. Exceptional preservation is essential to this result.
What makes this one different
Confirm the date and absence of a mintmark. Wear, weak striking, cleaning and surface damage make ordinary examples unlike the benchmark.
Nickel errors & varietiesNotable auction sale
$63,250- Grade at sale
- PCGS MS67
- Sold
- Auction house
- Heritage Auctions
- Specimen / lot
- The PCGS MS67 specimen in the cited auction result. No unverified pedigree or certificate identity is inferred.
Reported auction realization including buyer's premium under PCGS Auction Prices' stated convention. The original auction lot supplies the sold date.
Heritage Auctions: 1929 Buffalo nickelNo later auction result is included for this issue. That does not establish that no later sale occurred.
-
32
1931-S Buffalo nickel5 cents
Notable auction sale$63,250
PCGS MS67
Representative same-issue PCGS MS67 specimen; no identity match to the benchmark sale is asserted. Photo: PCGS TrueView 1931-S Buffalo nickel
San Francisco's 1931 Buffalo nickel is represented here by a PCGS MS67 auction specimen. Exceptional preservation is essential to this result.
What makes this one different
Confirm the S mintmark below FIVE CENTS and check for alteration. Wear, weak striking, cleaning and surface damage make ordinary examples unlike the benchmark.
Nickel errors & varietiesNotable auction sale
$63,250- Grade at sale
- PCGS MS67
- Sold
- Auction house
- Bowers & Merena
- Specimen / lot
- The PCGS MS67 specimen in the cited auction result. No unverified pedigree or certificate identity is inferred.
Reported auction realization including buyer's premium under PCGS Auction Prices' stated convention. Month precision retained because the exact lot-closing day was not independently established.
PCGS Auction Prices: 1931-S Buffalo nickelNo later auction result is included for this issue. That does not establish that no later sale occurred.
-
33
1883/2 Shield nickel5 cents
Notable auction sale$60,000
PCGS MS66+, CAC
Representative same-issue PCGS MS66+ specimen; no identity match to the benchmark sale is asserted. Photo: PCGS TrueView 1883/2 Shield nickel
An overpunched final date digit distinguishes this Shield nickel from the normal-date 1883 issue.
What makes this one different
Confirm the underlying 2 and the FS-301 die markers; a damaged 3 is not sufficient evidence of the overdate.
Nickel errors & varietiesNotable auction sale
$60,000- Grade at sale
- PCGS MS66+, CAC
- Sold
- Auction house
- Stack's Bowers
- Specimen / lot
- The PCGS MS66+, CAC specimen in the cited auction result. No unverified pedigree or certificate identity is inferred.
Reported auction realization including buyer's premium under PCGS Auction Prices' stated convention. Month precision retained because the exact lot-closing day was not independently established.
PCGS Auction Prices: 1883/2 Shield nickelNo later auction result is included for this issue. That does not establish that no later sale occurred.
-
34
1925-D Buffalo nickel5 cents
Notable auction sale$57,500
NGC MS66
Representative same-issue PCGS MS66+ specimen; no identity match to the benchmark sale is asserted. Photo: PCGS TrueView 1925-D Buffalo nickel
Denver's 1925 Buffalo nickel is represented here by a NGC MS66 auction specimen. Exceptional preservation is essential to this result.
What makes this one different
Confirm the D mintmark below FIVE CENTS and check for alteration. Wear, weak striking, cleaning and surface damage make ordinary examples unlike the benchmark.
Nickel errors & varietiesNotable auction sale
$57,500- Grade at sale
- NGC MS66
- Sold
- Auction house
- Heritage Auctions
- Specimen / lot
- The NGC MS66 specimen in the cited auction result. No unverified pedigree or certificate identity is inferred.
Reported auction realization including buyer's premium under PCGS Auction Prices' stated convention. The original auction lot supplies the sold date.
Heritage Auctions: 1925-D Buffalo nickelNo later auction result is included for this issue. That does not establish that no later sale occurred.
-
35
1935 Buffalo nickel5 cents
Notable auction sale$57,500
PCGS MS68
Representative same-issue PCGS MS68+ specimen; no identity match to the benchmark sale is asserted. Photo: PCGS TrueView 1935 Buffalo nickel
Philadelphia's 1935 Buffalo nickel is represented here by a PCGS MS68 auction specimen. Exceptional preservation is essential to this result.
What makes this one different
Confirm the date and absence of a mintmark. Wear, weak striking, cleaning and surface damage make ordinary examples unlike the benchmark.
Nickel errors & varietiesNotable auction sale
$57,500- Grade at sale
- PCGS MS68
- Sold
- Auction house
- Heritage Auctions
- Specimen / lot
- The PCGS MS68 specimen in the cited auction result. No unverified pedigree or certificate identity is inferred.
Reported auction realization including buyer's premium under PCGS Auction Prices' stated convention. The original auction lot supplies the sold date.
Heritage Auctions: 1935 Buffalo nickelNo later auction result is included for this issue. That does not establish that no later sale occurred.
-
36
1915-S Buffalo nickel5 cents
Notable auction sale$56,120
PCGS MS67, CAC
PCGS certificate 40549439, matched to the benchmark auction lot by its certificate number. The gallery was explicitly labeled TrueView. Photo: PCGS TrueView 1915-S Buffalo nickel
San Francisco's 1915 Buffalo nickel is represented here by a PCGS MS67 auction specimen. Exceptional preservation is essential to this result.
What makes this one different
Confirm the S mintmark below FIVE CENTS and check for alteration. Wear, weak striking, cleaning and surface damage make ordinary examples unlike the benchmark.
Nickel errors & varietiesNotable auction sale
$56,120- Grade at sale
- PCGS MS67, CAC
- Sold
- Auction house
- Heritage Auctions
- Specimen / lot
- The PCGS MS67, CAC specimen in the cited auction result. No unverified pedigree or certificate identity is inferred.
Reported auction realization including buyer's premium under PCGS Auction Prices' stated convention. The original auction lot supplies the sold date.
Heritage Auctions: 1915-S Buffalo nickelNo later auction result is included for this issue. That does not establish that no later sale occurred.
-
37
1916 Buffalo nickel, Proof5 cents
Notable auction sale$55,200
PCGS PR68, CAC
Representative same-issue PCGS PR68+ specimen; no identity match to the benchmark sale is asserted. Photo: PCGS TrueView 1916 Buffalo nickel, Proof
The 1916 proof is distinct from both regular-strike Buffalo nickels and the doubled-die obverse variety.
What makes this one different
Authenticate the proof strike first. This entry does not describe the famous 1916 doubled-die business strike.
Nickel errors & varietiesNotable auction sale
$55,200- Grade at sale
- PCGS PR68, CAC
- Sold
- Auction house
- Heritage Auctions
- Specimen / lot
- The PCGS PR68, CAC specimen in the cited auction result. No unverified pedigree or certificate identity is inferred.
Reported auction realization including buyer's premium under PCGS Auction Prices' stated convention. The original auction lot supplies the sold date.
Heritage Auctions: 1916 Buffalo nickel, ProofNo later auction result is included for this issue. That does not establish that no later sale occurred.
-
38
1918 Buffalo nickel5 cents
Notable auction sale$55,200
PCGS MS67+
PCGS certificate 40323107, matched to the benchmark auction lot by its certificate number. The gallery was explicitly labeled TrueView. Photo: PCGS TrueView 1918 Buffalo nickel
Philadelphia's 1918 Buffalo nickel is represented here by a PCGS MS67+ auction specimen. Exceptional preservation is essential to this result.
What makes this one different
Confirm the date and absence of a mintmark. Wear, weak striking, cleaning and surface damage make ordinary examples unlike the benchmark.
Nickel errors & varietiesNotable auction sale
$55,200- Grade at sale
- PCGS MS67+
- Sold
- Auction house
- Heritage Auctions
- Specimen / lot
- The PCGS MS67+ specimen in the cited auction result. No unverified pedigree or certificate identity is inferred.
Reported auction realization including buyer's premium under PCGS Auction Prices' stated convention. The original auction lot supplies the sold date.
Heritage Auctions: 1918 Buffalo nickelNo later auction result is included for this issue. That does not establish that no later sale occurred.
-
39
1921-S Buffalo nickel5 cents
Notable auction sale$51,750
PCGS MS66
Representative same-issue PCGS MS66+ specimen; no identity match to the benchmark sale is asserted. Photo: PCGS TrueView 1921-S Buffalo nickel
San Francisco's 1921 Buffalo nickel is represented here by a PCGS MS66 auction specimen. Exceptional preservation is essential to this result.
What makes this one different
Confirm the S mintmark below FIVE CENTS and check for alteration. Wear, weak striking, cleaning and surface damage make ordinary examples unlike the benchmark.
Nickel errors & varietiesNotable auction sale
$51,750- Grade at sale
- PCGS MS66
- Sold
- Auction house
- Bowers & Merena
- Specimen / lot
- The PCGS MS66 specimen in the cited auction result. No unverified pedigree or certificate identity is inferred.
Reported auction realization including buyer's premium under PCGS Auction Prices' stated convention. Month precision retained because the exact lot-closing day was not independently established.
PCGS Auction Prices: 1921-S Buffalo nickelNo later auction result is included for this issue. That does not establish that no later sale occurred.
-
40
1883 Liberty Head nickel, No CENTS, Proof5 cents
Notable auction sale$49,937.50
PCGS PR67+DCAM
Representative same-issue specimen, PCGS certificate 37912110; NOT identified as the listed auction specimen. Grade and color may differ from the benchmark. Photo: PCGS TrueView 1883 Liberty Head nickel, No CENTS, Proof
The original reverse omitted the word CENTS. This result is specifically for a proof with strong cameo contrast.
What makes this one different
Look for the missing CENTS inscription and establish genuine proof manufacture. Gold plating on a regular strike adds no comparable rarity.
Nickel errors & varietiesNotable auction sale
$49,937.50- Grade at sale
- PCGS PR67+DCAM
- Sold
- Auction house
- Legend Rare Coin Auctions
- Specimen / lot
- The PCGS PR67+DCAM specimen in the cited auction result. No unverified pedigree or certificate identity is inferred.
Reported auction realization including buyer's premium under PCGS Auction Prices' stated convention. Month precision retained because the exact lot-closing day was not independently established.
PCGS Auction Prices: 1883 Liberty Head nickel, No CENTS, ProofNo later auction result is included for this issue. That does not establish that no later sale occurred.
-
41
1914 Buffalo nickel, Proof5 cents
Notable auction sale$49,450
PCGS PR68
Representative same-issue PCGS PR68+ specimen; no identity match to the benchmark sale is asserted. Photo: PCGS TrueView 1914 Buffalo nickel, Proof
This sale represents the special proof issue, not the regular-strike 1914 or the attributed 1914/(3) variety.
What makes this one different
Matte texture alone is insufficient: use proof rims and die diagnostics, and rule out cleaning or altered surfaces.
Nickel errors & varietiesNotable auction sale
$49,450- Grade at sale
- PCGS PR68
- Sold
- Auction house
- Bowers & Merena
- Specimen / lot
- The PCGS PR68 specimen in the cited auction result. No unverified pedigree or certificate identity is inferred.
Reported auction realization including buyer's premium under PCGS Auction Prices' stated convention. Month precision retained because the exact lot-closing day was not independently established.
PCGS Auction Prices: 1914 Buffalo nickel, ProofNo later auction result is included for this issue. That does not establish that no later sale occurred.
-
42
1914-S Buffalo nickel5 cents
Notable auction sale$46,000
NGC MS67*
Representative same-issue specimen, PCGS certificate 42764992; NOT identified as the listed auction specimen. Grade and color may differ from the benchmark. Photo: PCGS TrueView 1914-S Buffalo nickel
San Francisco's 1914 Buffalo nickel is represented here by a NGC MS67 auction specimen. Exceptional preservation is essential to this result.
What makes this one different
Confirm the S mintmark below FIVE CENTS and check for alteration. Wear, weak striking, cleaning and surface damage make ordinary examples unlike the benchmark.
Nickel errors & varietiesNotable auction sale
$46,000- Grade at sale
- NGC MS67*
- Sold
- Auction house
- Heritage Auctions
- Specimen / lot
- The NGC MS67* specimen in the cited auction result. No unverified pedigree or certificate identity is inferred.
Reported auction realization including buyer's premium under PCGS Auction Prices' stated convention. The original auction lot supplies the sold date.
Heritage Auctions: 1914-S Buffalo nickelNo later auction result is included for this issue. That does not establish that no later sale occurred.
-
43
1927-D Buffalo nickel5 cents
Notable auction sale$46,000
PCGS MS66
Representative same-issue PCGS MS66+ specimen; no identity match to the benchmark sale is asserted. Photo: PCGS TrueView 1927-D Buffalo nickel
Denver's 1927 Buffalo nickel is represented here by a PCGS MS66 auction specimen. Exceptional preservation is essential to this result.
What makes this one different
Confirm the D mintmark below FIVE CENTS and check for alteration. Wear, weak striking, cleaning and surface damage make ordinary examples unlike the benchmark.
Nickel errors & varietiesNotable auction sale
$46,000- Grade at sale
- PCGS MS66
- Sold
- Auction house
- Heritage Auctions
- Specimen / lot
- The PCGS MS66 specimen in the cited auction result. No unverified pedigree or certificate identity is inferred.
Reported auction realization including buyer's premium under PCGS Auction Prices' stated convention. The original auction lot supplies the sold date.
Heritage Auctions: 1927-D Buffalo nickelNo later auction result is included for this issue. That does not establish that no later sale occurred.
-
44
1928-S Buffalo nickel5 cents
Notable auction sale$46,000
NGC MS67*
Representative same-issue PCGS MS67 specimen; no identity match to the benchmark sale is asserted. Photo: PCGS TrueView 1928-S Buffalo nickel
San Francisco's 1928 Buffalo nickel is represented here by a NGC MS67 auction specimen. Exceptional preservation is essential to this result.
What makes this one different
Confirm the S mintmark below FIVE CENTS and check for alteration. Wear, weak striking, cleaning and surface damage make ordinary examples unlike the benchmark.
Nickel errors & varietiesNotable auction sale
$46,000- Grade at sale
- NGC MS67*
- Sold
- Auction house
- Heritage Auctions
- Specimen / lot
- The NGC MS67* specimen in the cited auction result. No unverified pedigree or certificate identity is inferred.
Reported auction realization including buyer's premium under PCGS Auction Prices' stated convention. The original auction lot supplies the sold date.
Heritage Auctions: 1928-S Buffalo nickelNo later auction result is included for this issue. That does not establish that no later sale occurred.
-
45
1866 Shield nickel, With Rays, Proof5 cents
Notable auction sale$45,600
NGC PR67+ Ultra Cameo, CAC
Representative same-issue PCGS PR67DCAM specimen; no identity match to the benchmark sale is asserted. Photo: PCGS TrueView 1866 Shield nickel, With Rays, Proof
This first-year Shield nickel was made as a proof and retains the rays around the reverse numeral.
What makes this one different
Confirm proof manufacture as well as the rays. A polished regular strike is not a proof, and cameo contrast is a grade characteristic.
Nickel errors & varietiesNotable auction sale
$45,600- Grade at sale
- NGC PR67+ Ultra Cameo, CAC
- Sold
- Auction house
- Heritage Auctions
- Specimen / lot
- The NGC PR67+ Ultra Cameo, CAC specimen in the cited auction result. No unverified pedigree or certificate identity is inferred.
Reported auction realization including buyer's premium under PCGS Auction Prices' stated convention. The original auction lot supplies the sold date.
Heritage Auctions: 1866 Shield nickel, With Rays, ProofNo later auction result is included for this issue. That does not establish that no later sale occurred.
-
46
1920-S Buffalo nickel5 cents
Notable auction sale$44,562.50
NGC MS65
Representative same-issue PCGS MS66 specimen; no identity match to the benchmark sale is asserted. Photo: PCGS TrueView 1920-S Buffalo nickel
San Francisco's 1920 Buffalo nickel is represented here by a NGC MS65 auction specimen. Exceptional preservation is essential to this result.
What makes this one different
Confirm the S mintmark below FIVE CENTS and check for alteration. Wear, weak striking, cleaning and surface damage make ordinary examples unlike the benchmark.
Nickel errors & varietiesNotable auction sale
$44,562.50- Grade at sale
- NGC MS65
- Sold
- Auction house
- Heritage Auctions
- Specimen / lot
- The NGC MS65 specimen in the cited auction result. No unverified pedigree or certificate identity is inferred.
Reported auction realization including buyer's premium under PCGS Auction Prices' stated convention. The original auction lot supplies the sold date.
Heritage Auctions: 1920-S Buffalo nickelNo later auction result is included for this issue. That does not establish that no later sale occurred.
-
47
1924-D Buffalo nickel5 cents
Notable auction sale$44,062.50
PCGS MS66
Representative same-issue PCGS MS66+ specimen; no identity match to the benchmark sale is asserted. Photo: PCGS TrueView 1924-D Buffalo nickel
Denver's 1924 Buffalo nickel is represented here by a PCGS MS66 auction specimen. Exceptional preservation is essential to this result.
What makes this one different
Confirm the D mintmark below FIVE CENTS and check for alteration. Wear, weak striking, cleaning and surface damage make ordinary examples unlike the benchmark.
Nickel errors & varietiesNotable auction sale
$44,062.50- Grade at sale
- PCGS MS66
- Sold
- Auction house
- Heritage Auctions
- Specimen / lot
- The PCGS MS66 specimen in the cited auction result. No unverified pedigree or certificate identity is inferred.
Reported auction realization including buyer's premium under PCGS Auction Prices' stated convention. The original auction lot supplies the sold date.
Heritage Auctions: 1924-D Buffalo nickelNo later auction result is included for this issue. That does not establish that no later sale occurred.
-
48
1867 Shield nickel, With Rays, Business Strike5 cents
Notable auction sale$41,125
PCGS MS67
Representative same-issue PCGS MS66+ specimen; no identity match to the benchmark sale is asserted. Photo: PCGS TrueView 1867 Shield nickel, With Rays, Business Strike
This is the circulation-strike rays issue, distinct from the separately listed 1867 With Rays proof.
What makes this one different
Confirm the reverse rays and business-strike classification. A proof and a circulation strike of the same date are not interchangeable.
Nickel errors & varietiesNotable auction sale
$41,125- Grade at sale
- PCGS MS67
- Sold
- Auction house
- Stack's Bowers
- Specimen / lot
- The PCGS MS67 specimen in the cited auction result. No unverified pedigree or certificate identity is inferred.
Reported auction realization including buyer's premium under PCGS Auction Prices' stated convention. Month precision retained because the exact lot-closing day was not independently established.
PCGS Auction Prices: 1867 Shield nickel, With Rays, Business StrikeNo later auction result is included for this issue. That does not establish that no later sale occurred.
-
49
1912-D Liberty Head nickel5 cents
Notable auction sale$41,125
PCGS MS67
Representative same-issue specimen, PCGS certificate 56222722; NOT identified as the listed auction specimen. Grade and color may differ from the benchmark. Photo: PCGS TrueView 1912-D Liberty Head nickel
Denver's 1912 Liberty Head nickel is represented here by a PCGS MS67 auction specimen. Exceptional preservation is essential to this result.
What makes this one different
Confirm the D mintmark on the reverse near CENTS and check for alteration. Wear, weak striking and surface damage make ordinary examples unlike the MS67 benchmark.
Nickel errors & varietiesNotable auction sale
$41,125- Grade at sale
- PCGS MS67
- Sold
- Auction house
- Legend Rare Coin Auctions
- Specimen / lot
- The PCGS MS67 specimen in the cited auction result. No unverified pedigree or certificate identity is inferred.
Reported auction realization including buyer's premium under PCGS Auction Prices' stated convention. Month precision retained because the exact lot-closing day was not independently established.
PCGS Auction Prices: 1912-D Liberty Head nickelNo later auction result is included for this issue. That does not establish that no later sale occurred.
-
50
1936 Buffalo nickel, Brilliant Proof5 cents
Notable auction sale$40,250
PCGS PR68
Representative same-issue PCGS PR69 specimen; no identity match to the benchmark sale is asserted. Photo: PCGS TrueView 1936 Buffalo nickel, Brilliant Proof
The brilliant proof finish is distinct from the satin proofs also produced in 1936.
What makes this one different
Establish the brilliant proof finish and original surfaces; polishing a satin proof or circulation strike does not produce this issue.
Nickel errors & varietiesNotable auction sale
$40,250- Grade at sale
- PCGS PR68
- Sold
- Auction house
- Heritage Auctions
- Specimen / lot
- The PCGS PR68 specimen in the cited auction result. No unverified pedigree or certificate identity is inferred.
Reported auction realization including buyer's premium under PCGS Auction Prices' stated convention. The original auction lot supplies the sold date.
Heritage Auctions: 1936 Buffalo nickel, Brilliant ProofNo later auction result is included for this issue. That does not establish that no later sale occurred.
No matching coins. Try another date or category.
Good research starts with the sale.
Compare the same date, mint mark, variety, strike and grade before comparing prices. A spectacular auction result is evidence of one transaction, not an appraisal or a promise.
How this list is put together
Seven denomination lists contain 50 distinct coin issues each, for 350 researched entries. The overall top 50 is drawn from that collection. Lists are ordered by the highest documented sale included for each entry, not a current price estimate. This is a curated selection of notable U.S. and early American auctions, not an exhaustive census of every transaction or a live auction feed. Distinct dates, mint marks, varieties and strike types can appear separately; different grades of the same issue do not fill extra places. Museum-only coins, unsold bids, estimates and private transactions are excluded from the ranking.
Each sale links to its auctioneer or a grading-service record, with the grade reported at that sale. Newer documented sales appear separately when verified; they can involve another specimen or grade and do not show a like-for-like price change. Sorting by newest uses the newest sale included in each entry, not a claim that every auction has been searched.
Buyer-premium treatment is stated with each result. Historical dollars are not adjusted for inflation; taxes and shipping are not assumed included. Sources can report an auction's closing date instead of the individual session date. We use the session date where established and otherwise show the verified month.
Why isn't the unique 1849 double eagle ranked?
A museum rarity can attract large estimates without a comparable public sale. This resource ranks documented auction transactions, so it does not turn an estimate for a Smithsonian-held coin into a sold price.
Is my coin worth the price shown?
Not necessarily. The precise variety, authenticity, surfaces, grade and provenance matter. Many similar-looking coins are common. Do not clean a possible rarity; compare its details and get an independent authentication or appraisal before treating a headline result as your coin's value.
Photographs & corrections
These are real coin photographs, credited to their sources in every entry. The caption identifies the exact sold specimen where established; otherwise it identifies a reference example. No AI-generated coin details are used. CoinHub's editorial selections and descriptions are independent of the grading services and auction houses.
Have a newer public sale or a correction? Send CoinHub the auction link and lot number. The checked date changes only after editorial review, not automatically when the calendar changes.