Price Guide for 1908 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: $6.00 – $161.00Uncirculated: $60.00 – $11,500.00
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eBayCirculated: $5.50 – $504.99Uncirculated: $12.50 – $1,500.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $10.00 – $110.00Uncirculated: $120.00 – $25,000.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $1.35 – $8,518.75
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eBayCirculated: $5,000.00Uncirculated: $59.88 – $2,374.99
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $150.00 – $225.00Uncirculated: $250.00 – $11,000.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $259.00 – $8,625.00
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eBayUncirculated: $280.00 – $1,030.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $400.00 – $25,000.00
Design and Specifications of the 1908 Nickel
The 1908 Liberty Head (V) Nickel was part of a series that began in 1883 and continued until 1912. This coin played a significant role in American commerce during the early 20th century. The Liberty Head design, created by Chief Engraver Charles E. Barber, was a classic representation of American coinage art from this period.
| Weight | 5.0 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 21.2 mm |
| Mint Marks | Philadelphia (no mint mark), San Francisco (S) |
| Composition | 75% copper, 25% nickel |
| Obverse Design | Liberty Head (V Nickel), designed by Charles E. Barber |
| Reverse Design | Roman numeral V surrounded by a wreath, designed by Charles E. Barber |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
The condition of 1908 Liberty Head Nickels significantly impacts their value. Coins in circulated grades are relatively common and affordable, but prices increase dramatically for uncirculated specimens, especially those grading MS65 or higher.
For the San Francisco mint coins, the condition is particularly crucial due to their lower mintage. Well-struck examples with full luster and minimal contact marks command substantial premiums.
Mintage: 22,686,355
Rarity Scale: Common
Circulation Status: Widely Circulated
Preservation Rarity: Scarce in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: Moderate, higher for well-preserved specimens
Mintage: 1,368,000
Rarity Scale: Uncommon
Circulation Status: Moderate Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Rare in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: High, especially for well-preserved examples
Factors affecting the value of 1908 Liberty Head Nickels include:
1. Mint mark: San Francisco coins are generally more valuable due to lower mintage.
2. Strike quality: Well-struck coins with sharp details are more desirable.
3. Luster: Coins retaining original mint luster are highly prized.
4. Toning: Natural, attractive toning can enhance value for some collectors.
5. Preservation of design elements: Coins with fully visible details, especially on Liberty’s hair and the wreath, command higher prices.
