Rare 1964 Jefferson Nickels: How to Spot These Hidden Treasures

By John

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The 1964 Jefferson Nickel may look like a regular coin, but certain rare varieties are surprisingly valuable. While most were produced in large quantities during a coin shortage in the early 1960s,

a few coins with specific errors are worth much more than their face value. Let’s explore some of the key errors that make these nickels special and valuable.

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Key Error Types to Look For

Full Steps (FS) Designation

Definition: The Full Steps designation refers to the clarity of the steps on Monticello, the building shown on the back of the nickel. If all five or six steps are fully visible, the coin is considered rare.

Value: A 1964 Full Steps Nickel can be worth anywhere from $20 to $15,000, depending on its condition. In 2017, one in MS67 grade sold for an impressive $14,100!

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1964 Nickel Struck on a 1C Planchet

Definition: This error happens when a 1964 nickel is mistakenly struck on a one-cent (1C) planchet, giving the coin a copper color and making it lighter than usual.

Value: A coin with this error in AU58 grade sold for around $180. In higher grades, it can be worth up to $299.

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Four Strikes and Three Off-Center Error

Definition: This rare error occurs when the coin is struck four times, but three of those strikes are off-center, resulting in a misaligned design.

Value: Coins with this error can be worth up to $1,200, depending on the grade.

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Late Brockage Error

Definition: A brockage error happens when the coin has irregularities on both sides due to a striking issue during production.

Value: A 1964 nickel with this error, in MS62 grade, was sold for about $400.

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Nickel Struck on a Philippine 10-Centavo Planchet

Definition: During a time when the Philippines was under U.S. administration, some nickels were mistakenly struck on planchets intended for Philippine 10-centavo coins.

Value: These lighter coins can be worth up to $1,000.

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1964 Nickel Error Value Table

Error TypeDescriptionApproximate Value
Full Steps (FS)Clear visibility of all steps on Monticello$20 – $15,000
Struck on 1C PlanchetNickel struck on a one-cent planchet$180 – $299
Four Strikes and Three Off-CenterFour strikes with three off-centerUp to $1,200
Late BrockageIrregularities on both sides due to error$400
Struck on Philippine 10-Centavo PlanchetNickel struck on a Philippine coin planchetUp to $1,000

The 1964 Jefferson Nickel may seem like just another common coin, but certain varieties with rare errors can turn it into a valuable collector’s item. Whether it’s the Full Steps designation or a nickel struck on the wrong planchet,

these errors can make a 1964 nickel worth much more than its original value. So, if you ever come across a 1964 nickel, be sure to check it closely—it could be worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars!

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What makes a 1964 Jefferson Nickel valuable?

A 1964 Jefferson Nickel can be valuable if it has certain rare errors, such as a Full Steps designation or being struck on the wrong planchet.

How much can a 1964 Full Steps Nickel be worth?

A 1964 Full Steps Nickel can range from $20 to $15,000, depending on its condition and the clarity of the steps on the Monticello building.

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What is a Four Strikes and Three Off-Center Error?

This error happens when a coin is struck four times, but three of the strikes are off-center, resulting in a misaligned design. These can be worth up to $1,200.

What is the value of a 1964 nickel struck on a 1C planchet?

A 1964 nickel with this error can sell for around $180 in lower grades, and up to $299 in higher grades.

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How can I tell if my 1964 nickel is valuable?

Check for any of the listed errors, such as Full Steps, off-center strikes, or planchet issues. A coin expert can also help determine its value.

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