In 1964, a nickel might have fetched you a cold soda from a vending machine. Fast-forward to today, and one particular 1964 nickel is doing far more than quenching thirst — it’s turning heads in the coin collecting world for its astonishing value.
Believe it or not, this small five-cent piece could now pay for a brand-new SUV.
A Humble Coin With an Unexpected Value
At first glance, the 1964 Jefferson Nickel doesn’t appear all that special. Millions were minted, and most ended up in cash registers, pockets, and yes — vending machines. But not all 1964 nickels were created equal. Some rare varieties and minting errors have transformed these coins from common change into treasures worth tens of thousands of dollars.
One such coin recently made headlines after being appraised at over $35,000 due to its unique characteristics and near-perfect condition. While that amount won’t buy you a high-end luxury car, it’s more than enough to drive away in a well-equipped new SUV — and all from a coin that was once worth just five cents.
Why the 1964 Nickel Stands Out
The 1964 Jefferson Nickel holds a unique place in numismatic history. It was the last year these nickels were struck using 75% copper and 25% nickel before the Mint began reducing precious metal content across several coin types due to rising costs. But what really excites collectors are a few key factors:
- Minting Errors: Some nickels from this year were struck using proof dies, resulting in sharper details and higher contrast — a feature not typical for regular circulation coins. Others have visible doubling or off-center strikes.
- Full Steps: Nickels with fully visible steps on Monticello (on the reverse side) are extremely rare. These details often wear down quickly in circulation, so coins retaining crisp “Full Steps” grading can command premium prices.
- Condition Matters: Coins graded MS66 or above (Mint State) are considered exceptionally well-preserved. Combine that with a rare strike or error, and the value skyrockets.
Real Stories, Real Money
Not long ago, a 1964-D Jefferson Nickel with “Full Steps” and minimal wear sold at auction for more than $32,000. Another coin featuring a rare die error drew similar bids. These aren’t one-off stories — professional graders and collectors regularly scour old collections, jars, and estate sales hoping to find just one of these valuable specimens.
Even ungraded 1964 nickels can fetch decent amounts if they show signs of rarity or error. That dusty jar of coins sitting in your attic or that roll you inherited from a grandparent might just contain a small fortune.
What to Look for in Your Pocket Change
If you’re curious whether your nickel is worth a closer look, here are a few signs:
- Look for a 1964-D mint mark under Jefferson’s portrait — some of the most valuable versions come from the Denver Mint.
- Examine the Monticello building — if you can clearly count five full steps, you might be in luck.
- Check for any odd features: doubling in the text, a shifted strike, or unusual shine can all point to errors.
- Preserve the coin’s condition — avoid cleaning it, as this can reduce its value significantly.
Also, read: This Coin Fell Out of a Ceiling Fan — It’s Now Valued at Over $70,000
A Reminder From the Past
While most 1964 nickels are still just worth five cents, a few have rewritten their destiny. From buying sodas in the summer heat of the 60s to funding modern-day vehicles, these coins are proof that history can be hiding in plain sight — even in the loose change at the bottom of a drawer.
So next time you stumble across an old nickel, don’t dismiss it too quickly. That tiny piece of metal might be worth more than your monthly car payment — or even the keys to a brand-new ride.
Did You Know?
The U.S. Mint produced over 2.8 billion Jefferson Nickels in 1964, making it one of the highest mintages in the coin’s history. But only a handful possess the rare traits that turn them into collectibles worth tens of thousands of dollars.
