1901 Nickel Value: Mint Varieties, Rarity, and Current Prices

Price Guide for 1901 Nickel Variants

This guide presents price ranges for 1901 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.

1901 Nickel (Regular Strike)

• 3rd Party Price

  Circulated: $5.01 - $150.00

  Uncirculated: $33.00 - $28,200.00
• eBay

  Circulated: $4.50 - $500.17

  Uncirculated: $1.00 - $1,324.00
• PCGS Price Guide

  Circulated: $10.00 - $110.00

  Uncirculated: $120.00 - $17,500.00

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1901 Nickel (Proof)

• 3rd Party Price

  Circulated: $156.00

  Uncirculated: $1.10 - $13,225.00
• eBay

  Uncirculated: $123.61 - $678.00
• PCGS Price Guide

  Circulated: $140.00 - $225.00

  Uncirculated: $250.00 - $11,000.00

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1901 Nickel, CAM (Proof)

• 3rd Party Price

  Uncirculated: $264.00 - $6,168.75
• eBay

  Uncirculated: $480.00 - $589.00
• PCGS Price Guide

  Uncirculated: $300.00 - $6,500.00

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1901 Nickel, DCAM (Proof)

• 3rd Party Price

  Uncirculated: $719.00 - $15,275.00
• eBay

  Uncirculated: $3,087.50
• PCGS Price Guide

  Uncirculated: $1,500.00 - $20,000.00

More Detail

Design and Specifications of the 1901 Nickel

Rarity Factors and Value Drivers

The condition of a 1901 Liberty Head Nickel significantly impacts its value. While the coin is relatively common in circulated grades, it becomes increasingly scarce in higher mint state conditions. Coins in MS65 or above are particularly valuable due to their rarity.

Collectors pay close attention to the strike quality, especially on Liberty's hair details and the wreath on the reverse. Full luster and minimal contact marks are highly desirable. Attractive, natural toning can also enhance the coin's appeal and value.

Several factors can influence the value of a 1901 Liberty Head Nickel:

1. Strike Quality: Well-struck coins with sharp details, especially on Liberty's hair and the wreath, command higher premiums.

2. Luster: Coins with original mint luster are more desirable to collectors.

3. Surface Preservation: Minimal contact marks and abrasions, particularly on Liberty's cheek and in the fields, can significantly increase value.

4. Toning: Natural, attractive toning can enhance a coin's appeal and value, especially if it's colorful and even.

5. Die State: Late die state coins with interesting characteristics may appeal to specialized collectors.

While not a key date, high-grade examples of the 1901 Liberty Head Nickel are sought after by type set collectors and series enthusiasts, which can drive up prices for exceptional specimens.