The 1964 Jefferson Nickel may look like an ordinary coin, but some rare errors make it valuable to collectors. Due to a coin shortage in the 1960s, this nickel was produced in large quantities.
However, some coins from that year feature unique minting errors that add to their value. This guide explains the types of errors you should look for and what makes them worth more than face value.
Key Error Types to Look For in 1964 Jefferson Nickels
Full Steps (FS) Designation
- Definition: The “Full Steps” (FS) designation is given to nickels where the steps on the Monticello building (shown on the back) are fully visible. A coin with five or six visible steps is considered rare.
- Value: These coins can range from $20 to $15,000. For example, a 1964 FS Nickel graded at MS67 sold for $14,100 in 2017.
1964 Nickel Struck on a 1-Cent Planchet
- Definition: This error occurs when a 1964 nickel is mistakenly struck on a one-cent (1C) planchet, giving it a unique copper color and lighter weight.
- Value: A nickel with this error in an AU58 grade sold for around $180, while higher-grade coins may be valued at around $299.
Four Strikes with Three Off-Center
- Definition: This error happens when a coin is struck four times, with three of these strikes being off-center, resulting in a misaligned design.
- Value: Coins with this rare error can be worth up to $1,200 depending on their condition.
Late Brockage Error
- Definition: A brockage error causes irregularities on both sides of a coin due to a striking malfunction, leading to unusual and distinctive marks.
- Value: A 1964 nickel with this error, graded MS62, was sold for approximately $400.
Nickel Struck on a Philippine 10-Centavo Planchet
- Definition: Some nickels were mistakenly struck on planchets meant for Philippine 10-centavo coins, a result of the Philippines being under U.S. administration at the time.
- Value: These lightweight nickels can reach values as high as $1,000.
1964 Nickel Error Value Table
| Error Type | Description | Approximate Value |
|---|---|---|
| Full Steps (FS) | Clear visibility of Monticello steps | $20 – $15,000 |
| Struck on 1C Planchet | Nickel struck on a one-cent planchet | $180 – $299 |
| Four Strikes, Three Off-Center | Misaligned design due to multiple strikes | Up to $1,200 |
| Late Brockage | Irregularity on both sides from striking error | $400 |
| Philippine 10-Centavo Planchet | Struck on a planchet for Philippine coins | Up to $1,000 |
The 1964 Jefferson Nickel is far from ordinary. With the right error, it becomes a valuable collector’s item. Whether you’re a coin enthusiast or simply curious about nickels, it’s worth checking 1964 nickels for these rare traits. A simple five-cent coin could turn out to be worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars!
Why is the 1964 Jefferson Nickel valuable?
The 1964 nickel has various minting errors that make it rare and valuable, especially to collectors.
What does “Full Steps” mean on a nickel?
“Full Steps” refers to the visible details of the Monticello steps on the coin, a rare feature that increases value.
How do I identify a nickel struck on a 1-cent planchet?
Look for a lighter weight and copper color on the nickel; these indicate it was struck on a 1-cent planchet.
What is a brockage error on a coin?
A brockage error happens when a coin is struck incorrectly, causing irregular markings on both sides of the coin.
How much can a 1964 nickel with errors be worth?
Depending on the error, values range from $20 to $15,000 or more, depending on rarity and coin condition.
