1907 Liberty Head Nickel Value Guide (Up to $26,400)
1907 Liberty Head Nickel values range from $3 (circulated) to $26,400+ (proof CAM). Business strikes common in worn grades, rare in MS-67. Proof is series key date.
The 1907 Liberty Head Nickel is worth $3 to $26,400 depending on condition and strike type.
- Circulated business strikes: $3 – $55
- Uncirculated business strikes: $90 – $19,975 (MS-60 to MS-67)
- Proof strikes (brilliant): $190 – $4,000+
- Proof strikes (Cameo): $1,500 – $26,400+
Despite a massive business strike mintage, high-grade examples are scarce. The 1907 proof is the series key date with the lowest mintage of any Liberty Head proof (1,475 coins).
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1907 Liberty Head Nickel Overview
1907 Liberty Head Nickel showing obverse Liberty portrait and reverse Roman numeral V design
The 1907 Liberty Head Nickel represents a fascinating paradox in American numismatics. With a business strike mintage of 39,213,325—the second-highest in the entire series—it should be common. Yet collectors seeking high-grade examples face surprising scarcity, with Superb Gem (MS-67) specimens commanding prices up to $19,975. The 1907 proof issue tells an even more dramatic story: its mintage of just 1,475 coins makes it the lowest-mintage proof in the Liberty Head series, and examples with Cameo contrast (representing only 7.1% of survivors) have realized $26,400 at auction.
This guide provides comprehensive valuations for all grades and strike types, grading diagnostics, authentication guidance, and market insights based on PCGS, NGC, and recent auction data through 2024.
How to Identify a 1907 Liberty Head Nickel
All 1907 nickels were struck exclusively at the Philadelphia Mint, making identification straightforward—there are no mint marks to locate. This predates the introduction of branch mint nickels, which began in 1912 when Denver and San Francisco started production.
The 1907 nickel has no mint mark—all were struck at Philadelphia
Design Features
Obverse (Front): The obverse features a left-facing bust of Lady Liberty wearing a coronet and laurel wreath. The coronet displays the word "LIBERTY" in incuse (recessed) letters—this is a critical authentication feature. Thirteen stars surround the bust, representing the original colonies, with the date "1907" positioned at the bottom center.
Reverse (Back): The reverse is dominated by a large Roman numeral "V" denoting the five-cent denomination. A decorative wreath of agricultural symbols—corn, cotton, and wheat—encircles the V. Above the wreath appears "E PLURIBUS UNUM," while "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" and "CENTS" appear below. This "Type 2" or "With CENTS" design was introduced mid-1883 to prevent the fraudulent gold-plating of earlier "No CENTS" nickels.
Physical Specifications
- Composition: 75% Copper, 25% Nickel
- Weight: 5.00 grams (exactly)
- Diameter: 21.20 millimeters
- Edge: Plain (no reeding)
These specifications remained standard throughout the Liberty Head series. Any significant deviation from the 5.00-gram weight is an immediate counterfeit indicator.
1907 Liberty Head Nickel Price Guide
The 1907 nickel presents two distinct markets: business strikes and proofs. Business strikes are readily available in circulated grades but become increasingly scarce and valuable in high Mint State. Proof strikes, especially those with Cameo designations, represent the premier collectible tier.
Grade comparison showing wear progression from G-4 to MS-65
1907 (P) Business Strike Values
The business strike 1907 is common in worn condition, with values remaining modest through About Uncirculated. The market changes dramatically in Mint State, where MS-65 examples command $500-$600 and MS-67 specimens have realized nearly $20,000. PCGS notes that while MS-63 and MS-64 coins are "encountered frequently," specimens above MS-66 are extremely rare.
| Grade | Value Range |
|---|---|
| G-4 (Good) | $3 - $5 |
| F-12 (Fine) | $6 - $8 |
| EF-40 (Extremely Fine) | $20 - $30 |
| AU-50 (About Uncirculated) | $40 - $55 |
| MS-60 (Mint State) | $90 - $110 |
| MS-63 | $150 - $175 |
| MS-64 | $350 - $400 |
| MS-65 | $500 - $600 |
| MS-66 | $1,400 - $1,600 |
| MS-67 | $14,000 - $19,975 |
Recent Auction Highlights:$19,975(Legend, May 2019) for MS-67; $13,800(Heritage, Apr 2020) MS-67; $1,450(David Lawrence, Jun 2022) MS-66; $432(Stack's Bowers, Jun 2024) MS-65.
The 1907 is typically well-struck with crisp, bold luster. This is an important distinction from other dates in the series known for weak strikes (such as the 1912-D and 1912-S). Collectors should expect sharp definition; weakly struck examples may trade at a discount unless the weakness is attributable to the corn ear strike issue discussed in the grading section.
Cameo proofs (7.1% of survivors) command substantial premiums over brilliant proofs
1907 (P) Proof Strike Values
The 1907 proof is a major key date for the Liberty Head series. Its mintage of 1,475 is the lowest of any proof in the entire series (1883-1912). Value is overwhelmingly dictated by finish: the vast majority of survivors are "Brilliant" proofs lacking cameo contrast, while those with Cameo (CAM) or Deep Cameo (DCAM) designations are exceptionally rare.
Stack's Bowers research estimates only 7.1% of certified examples qualify for Cameo designation, while Deep Cameo examples are "virtually unknown between 1902 and about 1908" with a 0% certified population rate. This rarity is reflected in auction results: a PCGS PR-67+ CAM realized $26,400 in June 2021, while an NGC PR-66 Brilliant sold for $630 in August 2024.
| Grade | Brilliant | Cameo (CAM) |
|---|---|---|
| PR-60 | $190 - $240 | $350 - $500 |
| PR-63 | ~$275 | $450 - $600 |
| PR-64 | ~$365 | $600 - $800 |
| PR-65 | $550 - $900 | $900 - $1,500+ |
| PR-66 | $630 - $775 | $1,500 - $3,000+ |
| PR-67 | ~$1,800 | $4,000 - $26,400+ |
| PR-68 | $4,000 - $10,000+ | (Record: $26,400 PR-67+CAM) |
Recent Auction Highlights:$26,400(Stack's Bowers, Jun 2021) PCGS PR-67+ CAM—the auction record; $630(Stack's Bowers, Aug 2024) NGC PR-66 Brilliant.
💡 Collector Tip
Deep Cameo proofs are virtually non-existent for 1907. If considering a significant investment in a proof 1907, focus on Cameo-designated examples from PCGS or NGC. The 7.1% survival rate makes these coins true condition rarities with strong long-term appreciation potential.
Grading the 1907 Liberty Head Nickel
Accurate grading is essential for determining value. Liberty Head Nickels are graded primarily by examining wear on the obverse high points, with the word "LIBERTY" on the coronet serving as the key diagnostic.
Primary wear points: LIBERTY on coronet is the key grading diagnostic
Circulated Grades (G-4 through AU-58)
Good-4 (G-4): LIBERTY is outlined but worn completely flat. Individual letters may be partially visible but not fully readable. The rim should be complete and raised, separating the coin from lower grades. All major design elements are identifiable, but fine details are absent.
Very Good-8 (VG-8): At least three letters of LIBERTY must be clearly visible and readable. Typically these are the "L," "R," "T," and "Y." The "I" and "E" are often the first to wear away. Hair detail is minimal, showing only major outlines.
Fine-12 (F-12): All letters of LIBERTY are visible, though some (particularly the "I") may be weak. About one-quarter of Liberty's hair detail is visible. The wreath on the reverse shows moderate wear but all major elements are distinguishable.
Very Fine-20 (VF-20): LIBERTY is easily readable with all letters sharp. More than half of Liberty's hair detail is clear and distinct. The coronet shows moderate wear but retains good definition. On the reverse, the corn ear shows wear but individual kernels are visible.
Extremely Fine-40 (EF-40): LIBERTY is bold and sharp. About three-quarters of Liberty's hair detail is visible. Light wear appears only on the highest points. On the reverse, the wreath shows slight wear on the highest leaves but retains most detail.
About Uncirculated-50/58 (AU-50/58): Only traces of wear visible on the highest points—Liberty's cheek and hair above the forehead on the obverse, and the corn ear on the reverse. More than 50% (AU-50) to 90% (AU-58) of original mint luster remains. The coin should appear nearly as struck.
Mint State Grades (MS-60 through MS-70)
MS-60 to MS-62: No wear whatsoever, but numerous contact marks, bagmarks, or surface imperfections may be present. Luster may be somewhat subdued. Strike quality varies—check the corn ear for full definition.
MS-63 to MS-64: Moderate contact marks may be present, but not in focal areas (Liberty's cheek or fields). Luster is good to excellent. Strike should be above average. These grades represent attractive, collectible examples.
MS-65 to MS-66 (Gem to Premium Gem): Few to very few contact marks, none in prime focal areas. Excellent eye appeal with strong, vibrant luster. Strike should be sharp throughout. MS-65 examples are scarce; MS-66 specimens are rare.
MS-67 to MS-68 (Superb Gem): Virtually perfect surfaces with minimal imperfections even under magnification. Outstanding luster and strike. Exceptional eye appeal. These are extremely rare—fewer than 10 MS-67 examples are known, and MS-68 specimens are virtually non-existent.
Weak strikes common on corn ear at lower left—this is a minting characteristic, not wear
Critical Grading Distinction: Strike vs. Wear
A crucial diagnostic for this series involves the reverse corn ear at the lower left of the wreath. This element sits directly opposite Liberty's high-relief fore curls on the obverse. This opposition often resulted in poor metal displacement during striking, causing the corn ear to be weakly defined even on uncirculated coins.
When evaluating a coin, distinguish strike weakness from circulation wear: if the coin exhibits full mint luster and sharp details elsewhere, a soft corn ear should be identified as a minting characteristic, not evidence of wear or damage. This should not disqualify a coin from a Mint State grade, though weakly struck examples may trade at a slight discount compared to sharply struck counterparts.
Proof Grades (PR-60 through PR-70)
Proof coins are evaluated differently, with emphasis on reflectivity, contrast, and surface perfection rather than strike sharpness (which is typically excellent on proofs). Key factors include:
- Surface Quality: Hairlines from wiping, contact marks, or toning issues reduce grade.
- Mirror Depth: Deep, undisturbed fields are essential for high grades.
- Contrast: Cameo (CAM) and Deep Cameo (DCAM) designations require frosted devices against mirrored fields.
- Strike: Proofs should show full, crisp definition throughout.
For 1907 proofs, the finish type (Brilliant vs. Cameo) is the primary value determinant, often more significant than the numerical grade difference of one or two points.
Authentication and Counterfeit Detection
While the 1907 is not a prime counterfeiting target compared to key dates like the 1885 or 1886, authentication fundamentals remain important, especially for high-grade specimens commanding four- or five-figure prices.
Authentication features: weight, incuse LIBERTY, and sharp star details
Weight Verification: A genuine 1907 nickel must weigh exactly 5.00 grams within tight Mint tolerances (typically ±0.01g). Use a precision scale accurate to 0.01 grams. Counterfeit Liberty Nickels have been documented weighing 5.3 grams—a clear red flag. Any significant deviation from 5.00 grams indicates a problem.
Incuse LIBERTY: On a genuine coin, the word "LIBERTY" on the coronet is incuse—recessed into the metal surface. Some counterfeits have been discovered with raised "LIBERTY" lettering, which is immediately diagnostic of a fake. Run your fingertip lightly across the coronet; you should feel the letters as depressions, not raised relief.
Detail Quality and Surface Texture: Counterfeits, particularly those made using transfer dies or casting methods, exhibit "soft" or "mushy" details. Examine Liberty's hair under magnification—fine strands should be crisp and distinct, not blurry or blob-like. The thirteen obverse stars are another diagnostic point: genuine stars show sharp, well-defined points and rays. Counterfeit stars often appear as rounded "blobs" lacking definition. Additionally, cast fakes may show an "unnatural surface" with tiny "pimples" or an odd, non-original luster that appears dull or artificially bright.
Certification for High-Value Coins: For any 1907 nickel grading MS-65 or higher, or any proof example, purchase only coins certified by PCGS or NGC. Third-party grading provides authentication, grade verification, and protective encapsulation. The cost of certification (typically $30-$100 depending on value tier) is negligible compared to the financial risk of purchasing an uncertified fake or doctored coin.
Cleaned Coins: Cleaned coins are not counterfeits, but they are considered "problem coins" ineligible for straight numerical grading. A cleaned coin will receive a "Genuine—Cleaned" designation from grading services and will trade at a significant discount—often 50-80% below the value of an unimpaired example of the same technical grade. Signs of cleaning include hairline scratches visible under light (from abrasive cleaning), unnaturally bright or "wiped" surfaces lacking natural luster rotation, or a dull, lifeless appearance (from over-dipping in acid solutions).
Preservation and Care
Proper storage and handling are essential to maintaining your coin's condition and value. Improper care can permanently damage even high-grade specimens.
Storage Materials: Use only archival-quality, acid-free holders that are free from polyvinyl chloride (PVC). PVC, commonly found in soft, flexible plastic "flips," degrades over time and leaches a green, sticky, corrosive residue onto the coin's surface. This damage is often irreversible and will disqualify a coin from certification. For long-term storage, hard plastic holders (such as PCGS or NGC slabs) or non-PVC flips made from Mylar are recommended. Store coins flat in a cool, dry environment away from temperature and humidity fluctuations.
Handling Best Practices: Handle coins only by their edges, never touching the obverse or reverse surfaces. For uncirculated or proof specimens, wear clean cotton or nitrile gloves to prevent transfer of oils, acids, and moisture from your skin. Even microscopic fingerprints can cause permanent spotting or toning over time. When examining a coin, hold it over a soft cloth or padded surface to prevent damage if dropped.
Environmental Factors: Nickel-copper coins are relatively stable compared to pure copper or silver, but they can still develop spotting, tarnish, or discoloration if exposed to harsh conditions. Avoid storing coins in areas with high humidity, extreme temperature swings, or exposure to sulfur-containing materials (such as rubber bands or certain papers). A bank safe deposit box provides ideal environmental control for valuable collections.
Never Clean Your Coins: Even well-intentioned cleaning destroys numismatic value. Do not use polishes, abrasives, erasers, or chemical solutions. A coin's natural patina and luster are part of its originality. Cleaning creates hairlines, removes metal, and results in an unnatural appearance that is immediately obvious to experienced collectors and grading services. If a coin appears dirty or tarnished, consult a professional conservator rather than attempting treatment yourself.
1907 Liberty Head Nickel Mint Errors
While the 1907 nickel lacks documented die varieties, numerous mint errors are known. Error values depend heavily on type, severity, and visual drama. Minor errors (small die cracks, slight misalignment) carry modest premiums, while major errors (large off-center strikes, double strikes) can be highly valuable.
Error types include off-center strikes, broadstrikes, and double strikes
Documented Error Types and Values
Off-Center Strikes: These occur when the planchet is improperly positioned between the dies during striking, resulting in part of the design being off the coin. Value increases dramatically with the percentage off-center. A 5% off-center strike in MS-62 realized $150-$250(Heritage, May 2008), while a more dramatic 15% off-center strike in MS-61 brought $690(Heritage, Jan 2009). Collectors prefer examples where the date remains visible and the error is visually obvious.
Broadstrikes: A broadstrike occurs when a planchet is struck outside the restraining collar, allowing the metal to spread beyond its normal diameter. The result is a coin that is slightly larger and thinner than normal, often with an undefined edge. An NGC VF Details broadstrike is currently listed at $300 in the retail market. Broadstrikes in higher grades command proportionally higher premiums.
Double Strikes: Among the most visually dramatic errors, double strikes occur when a coin is struck twice by the dies, often with the second strike substantially off-center. A 1907 nickel with a major double strike (second strike 85% off-center) in PCGS AU-50 is estimated at $2,500-$4,000+(Heritage, Jan 2013). The more dramatic and visible the doubling, the higher the value.
Misaligned Dies and Broken Planchets: Less dramatic errors include misaligned die strikes (obverse design shifted relative to reverse), currently valued around $65 in circulated grades, and broken planchet errors (where part of the planchet is missing before striking), valued around $195. These represent entry-level error collecting opportunities.
💡 Error Collecting Strategy
The error market has generally strengthened since the 2008-2013 period when many documented sales occurred. Current values for dramatic errors (major off-centers, double strikes) may exceed the listed estimates. Always purchase certified error coins from PCGS or NGC to ensure authenticity and accurate attribution.
Recent Auction Results
Auction records provide real-market validation of published price guides. The following results from major numismatic auction houses demonstrate actual selling prices for 1907 Liberty Head Nickels in various grades from 2019-2024.
Business Strike Highlights: The auction record for a business strike 1907 nickel is $19,975(Legend Numismatics, May 2019) for a PCGS MS-67. Other superb gem sales include $13,800(Heritage, April 2020) MS-67 and $10,500(Heritage, June 2021) MS-67. These results underscore the extreme rarity of MS-67 specimens—fewer than ten are known to exist.
In the more attainable premium uncirculated grades, recent sales include $1,450(David Lawrence, June 2022) for MS-66, $1,200(Heritage, March 2023) MS-66, and $1,020(Stack's Bowers, August 2021) MS-66. Gem MS-65 examples have consistently realized $432-$444 in 2023-2024 sales (Stack's Bowers, Heritage, David Lawrence), confirming the published price guide ranges.
Proof Strike Highlights: The auction record for any 1907 nickel is $26,400(Stack's Bowers, June 2021) for a PCGS PR-67+ CAM—a premium reflecting both the high numerical grade and the exceptionally rare Cameo designation. This result dramatically exceeds published price guides, which largely focus on brilliant-finish proofs. For more typical brilliant-finish examples, an NGC PR-66 realized $630(Stack's Bowers, August 2024), closely tracking NGC's published $630-$775 range.
These results demonstrate that published guides provide reasonable estimates for typical examples, but exceptional specimens—particularly those with rare designations like Cameo—can command multiples of guide values when offered at specialized numismatic auctions. Collectors should view price guides as baselines while recognizing that auction competition for condition rarities can drive prices substantially higher.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is my 1907 Liberty Head Nickel worth?
A circulated 1907 nickel is typically worth $3-$55 depending on condition. Uncirculated examples range from $90 (MS-60) to $19,975 (MS-67). Proof specimens range from $190 (PR-60 brilliant) to $26,400+ (high-grade Cameo). The key value factors are grade, strike type (business vs. proof), and for proofs, the presence of Cameo contrast.
Does my 1907 nickel have a mint mark?
No. All 1907 Liberty Head Nickels were struck at the Philadelphia Mint, which did not use mint marks during this period. Branch mint production of nickels (with D and S mint marks) did not begin until 1912. Any 1907 nickel is automatically a Philadelphia product.
Why is the 1907 proof nickel so valuable?
The 1907 proof has the lowest mintage of any Liberty Head proof—just 1,475 coins—making it the key date of the proof series. Values are further driven by finish rarity: only 7.1% of certified survivors have the Cameo designation, and Deep Cameo examples are essentially non-existent (0% certified rate). This combination of low mintage and finish rarity makes high-grade Cameo proofs exceptionally valuable.
Should I get my 1907 nickel professionally graded?
If your coin appears uncirculated (no visible wear) or is a proof, professional grading by PCGS or NGC is recommended. The certification cost ($30-$100) is justified for coins worth $200+, as it provides authentication, accurate grading, and protective encapsulation. For heavily circulated examples worth $3-$20, the certification cost exceeds the coin's value, making raw (uncertified) storage appropriate.
How can I tell if my 1907 nickel is uncirculated?
Examine the word "LIBERTY" on the coronet under good lighting and magnification. If all letters are sharp and raised with no flatness or smoothness, and if the coin exhibits rotating mint luster (a "cartwheel" effect when tilted), it may be uncirculated. Check Liberty's cheek and hair for any evidence of wear. Even slight wear disqualifies a coin from Mint State grades. When in doubt, submit to PCGS or NGC for professional evaluation.
What are the most common mistakes collectors make with 1907 nickels?
The most damaging mistake is cleaning the coin, which destroys value. Never use polishes, chemicals, erasers, or abrasives. Other common errors include storing coins in PVC-containing holders (which causes green corrosion), handling coins by their faces rather than edges, and failing to distinguish strike weakness from circulation wear (particularly on the reverse corn ear).
Are there any valuable die varieties for the 1907 nickel?
No. Authoritative sources including PCGS, NGC VarietyPlus, and Fivaz-Stanton do not list any major die varieties for the 1907 Liberty Head Nickel. Unlike other years in the series that have documented doubled dies or repunched dates, the 1907 appears to lack collectible varieties. Value is determined entirely by grade, strike type, and condition.
What is the melt value of a 1907 nickel?
Based on current metal prices, the melt value is approximately $0.06—far below numismatic value. The composition is 75% copper (3.75g) and 25% nickel (1.25g). Even the lowest-grade collectible specimens are worth $3-$5, demonstrating that 1907 nickels trade entirely on numismatic rather than intrinsic value.
What makes a 1907 nickel "Cameo" or "Deep Cameo"?
These designations apply only to proof strikes and refer to the contrast between the devices (raised design elements like Liberty's portrait) and the fields (flat background areas). Cameo proofs have frosted, white devices against deeply mirrored fields. Deep Cameo proofs show even more intense frosting and deeper, darker mirrors. For 1907, Cameo examples represent only 7.1% of survivors, and Deep Cameos are essentially unknown.
Where can I sell my 1907 Liberty Head Nickel?
For high-value coins (MS-65+, proofs, or major errors), specialized numismatic auction houses like Heritage, Stack's Bowers, or Legend Numismatics offer the best venue to reach serious collectors. For circulated examples worth under $100, local coin dealers or online marketplaces like eBay are practical options. Always obtain multiple evaluations and check recent sold prices before accepting an offer.
Valuation Methodology and Sources
This guide synthesizes data from multiple authoritative sources to provide accurate, current valuations. Primary sources include the PCGS CoinFacts database and NGC Coin Explorer, which aggregate auction results and dealer pricing. Auction records are drawn from Heritage Auctions, Stack's Bowers Galleries, and other major numismatic auction houses, with emphasis on results from 2019-2024 to reflect current market conditions.
Variety and error attributions reference the NGC VarietyPlus guide, Heritage's Liberty Nickel variety reference, and published Fivaz-Stanton documentation. Authentication guidance incorporates NGC counterfeit detection bulletins and PCGS authentication articles. Grading standards follow NGC's official grading guide for Liberty Head Nickels and the American Numismatic Association's grading standards.
Melt value calculations use spot metal prices from KITCO for copper and nickel as of November 4, 2025. Prices reflect approximate retail market values for coins in accurately described condition. Actual realized prices vary based on individual coin quality, market timing, venue, and buyer competition. Collectors should verify current market conditions through multiple sources before making significant purchases or sales.
