Price Guide for 1921 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: $12.00 – $2,880.00Uncirculated: $5.25 – $51,750.00
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eBayCirculated: $5.50 – $2,395.00Uncirculated: $2,049.00 – $13,500.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $50.00 – $2,750.00Uncirculated: $3,150.00 – $42,500.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $18.00 – $456.00Uncirculated: $0.95 – $30,800.00
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eBayCirculated: $1.99 – $538.00Uncirculated: $12.50 – $4,455.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $5.00 – $335.00Uncirculated: $375.00 – $17,500.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $59.00 – $1,140.00Uncirculated: $2,880.00 – $4,465.00
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eBayCirculated: $114.65 – $296.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $75.00 – $2,200.00Uncirculated: $2,500.00 – $12,250.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $45.00 – $999.00Uncirculated: $705.00 – $7,800.00
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eBayCirculated: $11.00 – $415.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $20.00 – $550.00Uncirculated: $650.00 – $2,150.00
Design and Specifications of the 1921 Nickel
The 1921 Liberty Head (V) Nickel is a highly significant coin in American numismatics. It was minted during the final year of the Liberty Head nickel series, which ran from 1883 to 1912, with a brief revival in 1913 (the famous 1913 Liberty Head nickels). The 1921-S nickel is particularly noteworthy as it was the only nickel minted that year, and exclusively at the San Francisco Mint.
This coin was produced during a period of economic adjustment following World War I, and its low mintage reflects the reduced demand for coinage during this time. The scarcity of the 1921-S nickel has made it a key date in the series and a highly sought-after coin by collectors.
| Weight | 5.0 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 21.2 mm |
| Mint Marks | S (San Francisco) |
| Composition | 75% copper, 25% nickel |
| Obverse Design | Liberty Head (V Nickel), designed by Charles E. Barber |
| Reverse Design | Wreath surrounding the denomination, designed by Charles E. Barber |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
The condition of a 1921-S nickel has a significant impact on its value. Due to its rarity and historical importance, even circulated examples command premium prices. However, the value increases exponentially for coins in higher grades.
Uncirculated specimens are particularly valuable, with those grading MS63 or higher being extremely rare and highly sought after. The strike quality is often weak on 1921-S nickels, making well-struck examples even more desirable. Luster is another crucial factor, with coins retaining original mint luster being especially prized.
Toning can also play a role in a coin’s desirability, with attractively toned specimens often commanding a premium among collectors who appreciate the aesthetic appeal.
Mintage: 1,557,000
Rarity Scale: Rare
Circulation Status: Limited Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Extremely rare in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: High, especially for well-preserved specimens
Several factors contribute to the high value of the 1921-S nickel:
1. Historical significance: Being the final year of the Liberty Head nickel series adds to its appeal.
2. Low mintage: With only 1,557,000 pieces struck, it’s one of the lowest mintage nickels of the 20th century.
3. Sole nickel minted in 1921: No other mint produced nickels that year, increasing its importance.
4. Survival rate: Many were likely melted or lost to circulation, making high-grade examples particularly rare.
5. Collector demand: As a key date in the series, it’s highly sought after by both Liberty Head nickel collectors and 20th-century type set collectors.
These factors combine to make the 1921-S nickel a valuable and important coin in American numismatics.
