Sal’s ‘Nifty Nickel Night’ Edition: My Nickel Collecting Showcase and Tips

Last night, I got lost in my nickel collection – pulling out everything from pocket change to rarities. It felt like hosting my own little “Nifty Nickel Night”! I found some real surprises that I think any coin lover would get a kick out of.

The Joy of Nickel Diversity

One thing I’ve learned over the years: nickels are wonderfully diverse. Whether you’re just starting or you’ve been at it for decades, there’s something for everyone. From everyday Jeffersons to classic Buffalo nickels, each coin has its own tale. I made a point to include some well-worn pieces in my showcase too – because even beat-up coins can be stars in a collection.

Striking Errors: Treasures in the Rough

The star of my show? A split planchet nickel error from the 1940s – and I’ve got both halves! It’s a silver War Nickel, which makes it even cooler. Mistakes like this, or cuds (when the minting process goes a little sideways), can turn an ordinary nickel into a treasure. My tip: always check your coins under a bright light, and if you find something odd, consider sending it to PCGS or NGC. Grading can make a world of difference.

War Nickels: Silver Surprises in Plain Sight

I have to give War Nickels a special shoutout. Minted during WWII (1942-1945), they’re 35% silver. Spot them by the big mint mark above Monticello on the back. Even well-circulated ones carry a premium these days, so I always keep an eye out when I’m going through rolls.

Mint Mark Mysteries: The 1941 S Story

Variety hunting is a blast. Take the 1941 S Jefferson nickels: they come with both large and small ‘S’ mint marks. The small one is tougher to find and usually costs more. I use a loupe to tell them apart and double-check with my Red Book. It’s a great way to train your eyes!

Coin Roll Hunting: Tips for Nickel Success

Roll hunting is how I’ve found some of my favorite nickels. Here’s what works for me:

• Pick your rolls wisely: Bank boxes or customer-wrapped rolls often hide more errors and silver.
• Check carefully: Look for the dull gray edge of War Nickels and scan surfaces for errors like cuds or cracks.
• Keep notes: Jot down dates and mint marks – it helps you notice patterns and rarities over time.

Patience is key. Some of my best finds came after many tries.

Final Thoughts and Practical Advice

After my nickel night, I’m struck by how fun and affordable this corner of collecting can be. If you’re building a set, learn the grading basics – VF or better is ideal for common dates, but don’t shy away from lower-grade errors. The error market is strong right now, so buy from trusted dealers and consider selling at big coin shows. Above all, enjoy the hunt! Nickels let you build a varied collection without spending a fortune.