How much is a 1986 nickel worth?
The value of a 1986 nickel depends on its condition and whether it was minted in Philadelphia or Denver. A 1986 nickel in average condition is worth about 5 cents, while a 1986 nickel in mint condition is worth about 10 cents. 1986 nickels minted in Denver are slightly more valuable than those minted in Philadelphia, with an average value of 6 cents in average condition and 12 cents in mint condition.
The 1986 nickel is a common coin, but it is still popular with collectors. This is because the 1986 nickel is the last year that the Jefferson nickel was minted in copper-nickel clad. In 1987, the Jefferson nickel was switched to a copper-plated zinc core, which is less valuable than copper-nickel.
Here is a table summarizing the value of 1986 nickels in different conditions:
| Condition | Philadelphia Mint | Denver Mint ||---|---|---|| Average | 5 cents | 6 cents || Mint | 10 cents | 12 cents |If you have a 1986 nickel, you can use the table above to estimate its value. However, the best way to determine the exact value of your nickel is to have it appraised by a professional coin dealer.
1986 nickel worth
The value of a 1986 nickel depends on several key aspects, including its condition, mint location, and rarity. Here are eight key aspects to consider when determining the worth of a 1986 nickel:
- Condition: The condition of a coin refers to its physical state, including any wear, scratches, or damage it may have incurred over time. A nickel in mint condition is worth more than one that is heavily worn.
- Mint location: Nickels were minted in two locations in 1986: Philadelphia and Denver. Nickels minted in Denver are slightly more valuable than those minted in Philadelphia.
- Rarity: The rarity of a coin refers to how many were minted. Rare coins are worth more than common coins.
- Errors: Error coins are coins that have been minted with errors, such as a missing letter or date. Error coins can be worth more than regular coins, depending on the severity of the error.
- Variety: There are different varieties of nickels that were minted in 1986, each with its own unique characteristics. Some varieties are worth more than others.
- Grade: The grade of a coin is a measure of its condition, as determined by a professional coin grading service. Coins that are graded higher are worth more than coins that are graded lower.
- Certification: Certified coins have been authenticated and graded by a professional coin grading service. Certified coins are worth more than uncertified coins.
- Numismatic value: The numismatic value of a coin refers to its value to collectors. Coins that are rare, have historical significance, or are in high demand are worth more than coins that do not have these qualities.
By considering these key aspects, you can get a good estimate of the worth of your 1986 nickel. However, the best way to determine the exact value of your nickel is to have it appraised by a professional coin dealer.
1. Condition
The condition of a coin is one of the most important factors in determining its value. This is especially true for rare coins, such as the 1986 nickel. A 1986 nickel in mint condition is worth significantly more than a 1986 nickel that is heavily worn.
There are several factors that can affect the condition of a coin, including:- Circulation: Coins that have been circulated for a long period of time are more likely to be worn and damaged than coins that have been stored in a safe place.
- Cleaning: Improper cleaning can damage the surface of a coin, reducing its value.
- Environmental factors: Coins that have been exposed to moisture, heat, or other environmental factors can be damaged.
2. Mint location
The mint location of a coin is an important factor in determining its value. This is because different mint locations can produce coins with different characteristics, such as different die varieties or different metal compositions. In the case of the 1986 nickel, nickels minted in Denver are slightly more valuable than those minted in Philadelphia.
There are a few reasons why Denver mint nickels are more valuable than Philadelphia mint nickels. First, Denver mint nickels were minted in smaller quantities than Philadelphia mint nickels. This makes them more scarce, and therefore more valuable. Second, Denver mint nickels often have a more pronounced die variety than Philadelphia mint nickels. This makes them more visually appealing to collectors, and therefore more valuable.
The difference in value between Denver mint nickels and Philadelphia mint nickels is not huge, but it is significant. A 1986 nickel minted in Denver is worth about 10 cents in average condition, while a 1986 nickel minted in Philadelphia is worth about 5 cents in average condition. If you have a 1986 nickel, it is worth checking the mint mark to see where it was minted. If it was minted in Denver, it is worth slightly more than if it was minted in Philadelphia.
The mint location of a coin is just one of many factors that can affect its value. Other factors include the condition of the coin, the rarity of the coin, and the demand for the coin. However, the mint location is an important factor to consider when determining the value of a coin.
3. Rarity
The rarity of a coin is one of the most important factors in determining its value. This is because rare coins are more difficult to find, and therefore more desirable to collectors. The 1986 nickel is a good example of this principle. While the 1986 nickel is not a particularly rare coin, it is still more valuable than common coins, such as the Lincoln cent.
There are a few reasons why the 1986 nickel is more valuable than common coins. First, the 1986 nickel was the last year that the Jefferson nickel was minted in copper-nickel clad. In 1987, the Jefferson nickel was switched to a copper-plated zinc core, which is less valuable than copper-nickel. This makes the 1986 nickel a more desirable coin to collectors.
Second, the 1986 nickel was minted in relatively small quantities. This makes it more scarce than common coins, which were minted in large quantities. The scarcity of the 1986 nickel also contributes to its value.
The rarity of a coin is a key factor to consider when determining its value. Rare coins are worth more than common coins, and the 1986 nickel is a good example of this principle.
Here are some additional examples of rare coins:
- The 1943 Lincoln cent is a rare coin because it was minted in steel instead of copper-plated zinc. This makes it a very desirable coin to collectors.
- The 1955 doubled die Lincoln cent is a rare coin because it has a doubled die error. This means that the dies that were used to strike the coin were not aligned properly, which resulted in a doubled image on the coin.
- The 1964 Kennedy half dollar is a rare coin because it was minted in silver instead of copper-nickel. This makes it a very valuable coin to collectors.
Understanding the rarity of a coin is important for collectors and investors. Rare coins can be a valuable investment, and they can also be a lot of fun to collect.
4. Errors
Error coins are a fascinating and valuable part of numismatics, the study of coins. They can be caused by a variety of factors, including die breaks, misaligned dies, and even human error. Some error coins are very common, while others are extremely rare. The value of an error coin depends on a number of factors, including the severity of the error, the rarity of the coin, and the demand for the coin among collectors.
- Severity of the error: The more severe the error, the more valuable the coin is likely to be. For example, a coin with a missing letter or date is more valuable than a coin with a minor die break.
- Rarity of the coin: The rarer the coin, the more valuable it is likely to be. This is because rare coins are more difficult to find and, therefore, more desirable to collectors.
- Demand for the coin: The demand for a particular error coin can also affect its value. For example, a coin that is popular with collectors is likely to be more valuable than a coin that is not as popular.
The 1986 nickel is a good example of an error coin. In 1986, the Philadelphia Mint produced a small number of nickels with a doubled die error. This error occurred when the dies that were used to strike the coins were not aligned properly, which resulted in a doubled image on the coin. The 1986 doubled die nickel is a valuable coin, and it is one of the most sought-after error coins by collectors.
Error coins can be a valuable investment, and they can also be a lot of fun to collect. If you are interested in learning more about error coins, there are a number of resources available online and in libraries.
5. Variety
The variety of a coin is an important factor in determining its value. This is because different varieties of coins can have different characteristics, such as different die varieties or different metal compositions. In the case of the 1986 nickel, there are several different varieties that were minted, each with its own unique characteristics.
One of the most significant varieties of the 1986 nickel is the doubled die variety. This variety was caused by a die error that occurred when the dies that were used to strike the coins were not aligned properly. The doubled die variety is characterized by a doubling of the image on the coin, which is most noticeable on the lettering and the date.
The doubled die variety of the 1986 nickel is a valuable coin, and it is one of the most sought-after error coins by collectors. The value of a doubled die 1986 nickel can vary depending on the severity of the doubling and the condition of the coin. However, even a moderately doubled die 1986 nickel can be worth several hundred dollars.
In addition to the doubled die variety, there are several other varieties of the 1986 nickel that are worth more than the common variety. These varieties include the following:
- 1986 nickel with a rotated reverse: This variety is characterized by a reverse (tails) that is rotated slightly off-center. The rotated reverse variety of the 1986 nickel is worth a small premium over the common variety.
- 1986 nickel with a broadstrike: This variety is characterized by a wider-than-normal strike. The broadstrike variety of the 1986 nickel is worth a small premium over the common variety.
- 1986 nickel with a cud error: This variety is characterized by a small piece of metal that is sticking out from the edge of the coin. The cud error variety of the 1986 nickel is worth a small premium over the common variety.
Understanding the variety of a coin is an important part of determining its value. By understanding the different varieties of the 1986 nickel, you can better assess the value of your coins.
6. Grade
The grade of a coin is an important factor in determining its value, especially for rare coins such as the 1986 nickel. A coin's grade is a measure of its condition, as determined by a professional coin grading service. Coins that are graded higher are worth more than coins that are graded lower because they are in better condition and, therefore, more desirable to collectors.
The Sheldon grading scale is the most widely used coin grading system. This scale assigns a numerical grade to coins, ranging from 1 to 70. The higher the grade, the better the condition of the coin. Coins that are graded MS (Mint State) are in perfect condition, while coins that are graded AU (About Uncirculated) show only slight wear. Coins that are graded G (Good) or lower show significant wear and may have damage.
The grade of a coin can have a significant impact on its value. For example, a 1986 nickel in MS condition is worth about $10, while a 1986 nickel in G condition is worth only about $1. Therefore, it is important to have your coins graded by a professional coin grading service if you want to determine their accurate value.
Here are some additional examples of how the grade of a coin can affect its value:
- A 1909-S VDB Lincoln cent in MS condition is worth about $200, while a 1909-S VDB Lincoln cent in G condition is worth only about $10.
- An 1893-S Morgan silver dollar in MS condition is worth about $1,000, while an 1893-S Morgan silver dollar in G condition is worth only about $100.
- A 1943-D copper Lincoln cent in MS condition is worth about $20,000, while a 1943-D copper Lincoln cent in G condition is worth only about $10.
As you can see, the grade of a coin can have a significant impact on its value. Therefore, it is important to have your coins graded by a professional coin grading service if you want to determine their accurate value.
7. Certification
Certification is an important factor in determining the value of a coin, especially for rare coins such as the 1986 nickel. Certified coins have been authenticated and graded by a professional coin grading service, which provides assurance to buyers that the coin is genuine and in the condition stated. This is important because it can be difficult to accurately assess the condition of a coin yourself, and there are many counterfeit coins in circulation.
Certified coins are worth more than uncertified coins for a number of reasons. First, certification provides assurance to buyers that the coin is genuine. This is important because there are many counterfeit coins in circulation, and it can be difficult to tell the difference between a genuine coin and a counterfeit without the help of an expert. Second, certification provides a guarantee of the coin's condition. This is important because the condition of a coin can have a significant impact on its value. A coin that is in mint condition is worth more than a coin that is in circulated condition.
There are a number of different professional coin grading services that you can use to have your coins certified. Some of the most popular services include the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC), the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS), and the American Numismatic Association Certification Service (ANACS). These services charge a fee to certify your coins, but it is worth it to have your coins certified if you want to get the most value for them.
Here are some examples of how certification can affect the value of a coin:
- A 1986 nickel in MS condition that is certified by NGC is worth about $10, while a 1986 nickel in MS condition that is not certified is worth only about $5.
- An 1893-S Morgan silver dollar in MS condition that is certified by PCGS is worth about $1,000, while an 1893-S Morgan silver dollar in MS condition that is not certified is worth only about $500.
- A 1943-D copper Lincoln cent in MS condition that is certified by ANACS is worth about $20,000, while a 1943-D copper Lincoln cent in MS condition that is not certified is worth only about $10,000.
As you can see, certification can have a significant impact on the value of a coin. Therefore, it is important to have your coins certified by a professional coin grading service if you want to get the most value for them.
8. Numismatic value
The numismatic value of a coin is an important factor in determining its overall worth. This is especially true for rare coins, such as the 1986 nickel. The numismatic value of a coin is based on a number of factors, including its rarity, historical significance, and demand among collectors.
The 1986 nickel is a good example of a coin with high numismatic value. This is because the 1986 nickel is a relatively rare coin, and it also has historical significance as the last year that the Jefferson nickel was minted in copper-nickel clad. As a result, the 1986 nickel is in high demand among collectors, and it is worth a premium over its face value.
The numismatic value of a coin can also be affected by its condition. A coin that is in mint condition is worth more than a coin that is in circulated condition. This is because a coin in mint condition is more desirable to collectors.
Understanding the numismatic value of a coin is important for collectors and investors. This is because the numismatic value of a coin can have a significant impact on its overall worth. By understanding the factors that affect the numismatic value of a coin, you can make more informed decisions about which coins to buy and sell.
Here are some additional examples of coins with high numismatic value:
- The 1909-S VDB Lincoln cent is a rare coin that is worth a premium over its face value due to its historical significance. This coin was the first Lincoln cent to be minted with the initials of its designer, Victor David Brenner, on the reverse.
- The 1893-S Morgan silver dollar is a rare coin that is worth a premium over its face value due to its rarity. This coin was minted in San Francisco, and only a small number of these coins were produced.
- The 1943-D copper Lincoln cent is a rare coin that is worth a premium over its face value due to its historical significance. This coin was minted during World War II, when copper was needed for the war effort. As a result, only a small number of these coins were produced.
These are just a few examples of coins with high numismatic value. There are many other coins that are also valuable to collectors. By understanding the factors that affect the numismatic value of a coin, you can make more informed decisions about which coins to buy and sell.
1986 Nickel Worth FAQs
This section addresses frequently asked questions regarding the worth of 1986 nickels, providing concise and informative answers.
Question 1: What factors influence the value of a 1986 nickel?
The worth of a 1986 nickel is determined by several factors, including its condition, mint location, variety, grade, certification, and numismatic value.
Question 2: Is a 1986 nickel worth more than its face value?
Yes, a 1986 nickel is worth more than its face value due to its numismatic value as the last year of production for the copper-nickel clad Jefferson nickel.
Question 3: How can I determine the condition of my 1986 nickel?
The condition of a 1986 nickel can be assessed by examining its surface for wear, scratches, or damage. Coins in mint condition are more valuable than those in circulated condition.
Question 4: Where can I get my 1986 nickel graded and certified?
Professional coin grading services such as Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC) and Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) provide authentication and grading services for coins, including 1986 nickels.
Question 5: What is the approximate value of a 1986 nickel in average condition?
An average condition 1986 nickel is generally worth around 5 to 10 cents, depending on the specific factors mentioned earlier.
In summary, the value of a 1986 nickel is influenced by various factors, and understanding these factors can help in determining its worth accurately.
Transition to the next article section: For further insights and a comprehensive analysis of 1986 nickel values, continue reading the following sections.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the worth of a 1986 nickel encompasses various factors that contribute to its numismatic value. Understanding these factors, including condition, mint location, variety, grade, certification, and historical significance, enables collectors and enthusiasts to accurately assess the worth of their 1986 nickels.
The 1986 nickel, being the last year of production for the copper-nickel clad Jefferson nickel, holds a unique place in the history of US coinage. Its scarcity, combined with its distinct characteristics, makes it a valuable and sought-after piece for collectors. While the average worth of a 1986 nickel may range from a few cents to a few dollars, certain exceptional specimens with high grades and desirable features can command significantly higher values.
For those interested in further exploration of 1986 nickel values, consulting reputable coin dealers, numismatic references, and online resources is highly recommended. By staying informed about market trends and expert opinions, collectors can make well-informed decisions regarding the acquisition and valuation of 1986 nickels.
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