Price Guide for 1901 Nickel Variants
This guide presents price ranges for 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.
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $5.01 – $150.00Uncirculated: $33.00 – $28,200.00
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eBayCirculated: $4.50 – $500.17Uncirculated: $1.00 – $1,324.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $10.00 – $110.00Uncirculated: $120.00 – $17,500.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $156.00Uncirculated: $1.10 – $13,225.00
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eBayUncirculated: $123.61 – $678.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $140.00 – $225.00Uncirculated: $250.00 – $11,000.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $264.00 – $6,168.75
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eBayUncirculated: $480.00 – $589.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $300.00 – $6,500.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $719.00 – $15,275.00
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eBayUncirculated: $3,087.50
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $1,500.00 – $20,000.00
Design and Specifications of the 1901 Nickel
The 1901 Liberty Head (V) Nickel was part of a series that began in 1883 and continued until 1912. This coin design, created by Chief Engraver Charles E. Barber, features Lady Liberty on the obverse and a Roman numeral V surrounded by a wreath on the reverse. The 1901 issue was produced during a period of economic growth in the United States, with the nickel playing an important role in everyday commerce.
| Weight | 5 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 21.2 mm |
| Mint Marks | Philadelphia (no mint mark) |
| Composition | 75% copper, 25% nickel |
| Obverse Design | Liberty Head (V Nickel), designed by Charles E. Barber |
| Reverse Design | Wreath surrounding Roman numeral V, designed by Charles E. Barber |
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.
Mintage: 26,480,213
Rarity Scale: Common
Circulation Status: Widely Circulated
Preservation Rarity: Scarce in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant for this year
Market Demand: Moderate, higher for well-preserved specimens
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.
