1896 Nickel Value: Mint Varieties, Rarity, and Current Prices

Price Guide for 1896 Nickel Variants

This guide presents price ranges for 1896 Nickel variants from three sources: eBay sales, third-party auctions, and PCGS guides. Values are shown for various conditions, allowing collectors to compare across different market segments. Price estimates may vary between sources, especially for rarer variants.

1896 Nickel (Regular Strike)

• 3rd Party Price

  Circulated: $28.00 - $360.00

  Uncirculated: $80.00 - $20,562.50
• eBay

  Circulated: $10.03 - $275.89

  Uncirculated: $105.27 - $1,995.95
• PCGS Price Guide

  Circulated: $10.00 - $285.00

  Uncirculated: $300.00 - $25,000.00

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1896 Nickel (Proof)

• 3rd Party Price

  Circulated: $80.00 - $632.00

  Uncirculated: $1.70 - $15,275.00
• eBay

  Uncirculated: $202.50 - $3,650.00
• PCGS Price Guide

  Uncirculated: $250.00 - $13,500.00

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1896 Nickel, CAM (Proof)

• 3rd Party Price

  Uncirculated: $280.00 - $10,350.00
• eBay

  Uncirculated: $255.00 - $450.00
• PCGS Price Guide

  Uncirculated: $300.00 - $15,000.00

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1896 Nickel, DCAM (Proof)

• 3rd Party Price

  Uncirculated: $998.75 - $10,350.00
• PCGS Price Guide

  Uncirculated: $1,500.00 - $15,000.00

More Detail

Design and Specifications of the 1896 Nickel

Rarity Factors and Value Drivers

Condition plays a crucial role in the value of 1896 Liberty Head Nickels. While the coin is relatively common in circulated grades, it becomes increasingly scarce in higher mint state conditions. Coins in grades MS65 and above are particularly desirable and valuable.

Key factors affecting condition include:

- Strike quality: Well-struck coins with full details are more valuable.
- Luster: Original mint luster significantly enhances value.
- Surface preservation: Minimal contact marks or blemishes are preferred.
- Toning: Natural, attractive toning can add to the coin's appeal and value.

Several factors can influence the value of an 1896 Liberty Head Nickel:

1. Historical significance: As a coin from the late 19th century, it holds appeal for collectors of Victorian-era U.S. coinage.

2. Type set inclusion: Being part of the Liberty Head series makes it desirable for type set collectors.

3. Preservation: Exceptionally well-preserved examples, especially those with original mint luster, command premium prices.

4. Market trends: The overall demand for 19th-century U.S. coins can affect values.

5. Certification: Coins graded and authenticated by reputable third-party grading services often fetch higher prices.