1964 Nickel Error List with Pictures & Value
Welcome to the comprehensive 1964 nickel error guide. The 1964 Jefferson nickel is notable among collectors for various striking errors and die varieties. Understanding 1964 nickel value helps collectors identify valuable error coins. This guide covers all major 1964 nickel error types with pictures and current market values.
1964 Nickel Doubled Die Obverse Error
The 1964 nickel doubled die obverse error shows distinct doubling on the obverse inscriptions, particularly visible on "LIBERTY," the date "1964," and "IN GOD WE TRUST." This error occurred when the die was hubbed multiple times in slightly different positions during the manufacturing process.
Identification Tips:
- Use 5x-10x magnification to examine the lettering
- Look for clear separation between doubled letters
- Check the date for vertical or horizontal doubling
- Strong doubling visible to the naked eye commands premium prices
1964 Nickel Doubled Die Reverse Error
The doubled die reverse error on 1964 nickels displays doubling on the reverse side, most commonly visible on "MONTICELLO," "FIVE CENTS," and "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA." The columns of Monticello may also show doubling effects.
Identification Tips:
- Examine the building's architectural details for doubled lines
- Check the lettering around the rim for separation
- Look at "E PLURIBUS UNUM" above Monticello for doubling
- Reverse doubling is generally less dramatic than obverse
1964 Nickel Off-Center Strike Error
Off-center strike errors occur when the planchet is not properly centered between the dies during striking. The resulting coin shows part of the design missing with a corresponding blank area. The date must remain visible for the coin to be identifiable and valuable.
Identification Tips:
- 10-20% off-center: $20-$75
- 25-40% off-center: $75-$150
- 50%+ off-center with visible date: $150-$400
- The more dramatic the off-center, the higher the value
- Date visibility is crucial for authentication
1964 Nickel Die Crack Error
Die crack errors appear as raised lines on the coin's surface, created when the die develops cracks from metal fatigue. These cracks transfer to the coin as raised metal lines. Some die cracks are minor, while others can be dramatic and extend across major design elements.
Identification Tips:
- Minor hairline cracks: $2-$10
- Major cracks through date or letters: $15-$50
- Multiple cracks or cud errors: $50-$100
- Cracks appear as raised lines on high points
- Die cracks through important design features are most valuable
1964 Nickel Broadstrike Error
A broadstrike error occurs when a coin is struck outside the retaining collar that normally contains the metal and forms the rim. The result is a coin with a larger diameter than normal, no raised rim, and a flattened appearance with slightly blurred design details.
Identification Tips:
- Diameter larger than normal 21.2mm specification
- Missing or minimal raised rim
- Design appears flatter and more spread out
- Complete strikes more valuable than partial
- Measure diameter to confirm broadstrike
1964 Nickel Clipped Planchet Error
Clipped planchet errors happen when the planchet cutting machine overlaps previous cuts, creating blanks with missing sections. The clips can be straight, curved, or irregular. The missing metal creates a distinctive appearance with part of the rim and design absent.
Identification Tips:
- Straight clips (5-10%): $15-$40
- Curved clips (10-20%): $40-$75
- Multiple clips: $75-$125
- Check that the clip is original, not damage
- Rim should show proper curvature into the clipped area
1964 Nickel Struck Through Error
Struck through errors occur when foreign material gets between the die and planchet during striking. This can include grease, cloth, wire, or other debris. The obstruction prevents normal metal flow, leaving areas of weak or missing detail with distinctive texture.
Identification Tips:
- Grease filled dies: $10-$30
- Struck through cloth or wire: $50-$200
- Look for areas of missing detail with unusual texture
- Pattern should show the shape of obstructing material
- Most valuable when obstruction is clearly identifiable
1964 Nickel Repunched Mintmark Error
Repunched mintmark errors occur only on 1964-D nickels, where the "D" mintmark was punched into the die multiple times in slightly different positions. This creates a doubling effect specific to the mintmark itself, visible under magnification.
Identification Tips:
- Only applicable to Denver mint coins (1964-D)
- Examine mintmark with 10x magnification
- Look for traces of extra mintmark outline
- Strong repunching shows clear separation: $40-$75
- Minor repunching may only show thickening: $5-$20
1964 Nickel Lamination Error
Lamination errors result from impurities in the metal alloy or improper bonding during planchet preparation. The coin's surface develops cracks, peeling, or separating layers. These defects can appear as raised blisters or missing metal patches where layers have separated.
Identification Tips:
- Minor surface laminations: $8-$25
- Major peeling or missing layers: $40-$100
- Look for flaky or peeling metal
- Check edges for visible layer separation
- Laminations on the face are more valuable than edges
1964 Nickel Weak Strike Error
Weak strike errors happen when insufficient pressure is applied during the striking process, resulting in weak or missing design details. The coin appears flat with mushy details, particularly affecting high relief areas like Jefferson's hair, Monticello's steps, and lettering.
Identification Tips:
- Examine high points for missing detail
- Check step visibility on Monticello reverse
- Weak strikes often affect both sides equally
- Must distinguish from wear on circulated coins
- Most dramatic examples show partially formed designs
How Much is 1964 Nickel Error Worth? Coin Identifier I Recommended
Accurately identifying and valuing your 1964 nickel errors requires expert knowledge and proper tools. I recommend two excellent mobile applications that can help you identify and value your error coins quickly and accurately.
CoinValueChecker
CoinValueChecker is a comprehensive coin identification and valuation app that uses advanced image recognition technology to instantly identify your coins. Simply take a photo of your 1964 nickel, and the app will identify the variety, grade condition, and provide current market values. The app features an extensive database of error coins with detailed photos and descriptions, making it easy to compare your coin with known varieties. CoinValueChecker also provides historical price trends, auction results, and expert grading tips. The app is ideal for both beginning collectors who need quick identification help and experienced numismatists tracking their collection values.
CoinKnow
CoinKnow is another excellent app specializing in error coin identification and education. The app offers detailed visual guides for every major error type, including high-resolution reference images that show exactly what to look for on your coins. CoinKnow features a robust community forum where you can share photos and get feedback from experienced collectors, and includes step-by-step tutorials on examining coins under magnification. The app maintains up-to-date pricing based on recent sales data and provides grading guidelines to help you assess condition accurately. CoinKnow is particularly useful for learning about error coins through its extensive educational content and interactive identification tools.
Summary
The 1964 Jefferson nickel offers numerous error varieties valuable to collectors. Major errors include doubled die obverse and reverse varieties, off-center strikes, broadstrikes, clipped planchets, die cracks, struck through errors, repunched mintmarks, laminations, and weak strikes. Values range from a few dollars for minor errors to several hundred dollars for dramatic specimens. Key factors affecting value include error type, prominence, coin condition, and date visibility. Always examine coins under magnification, compare with reference materials, and consider professional grading for valuable pieces. With over 2.8 billion 1964 nickels produced between Philadelphia and Denver mints, error coins represent scarce varieties worth searching for in circulation and coin collections.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most valuable 1964 nickel error?
The most valuable 1964 nickel error is typically the doubled die obverse, which can be worth $50 to $500 or more depending on the strength of the doubling and condition. For accurate valuation of your 1964 nickel errors, I recommend using the CoinValueChecker App to instantly identify and price your coins.
How can I tell if my 1964 nickel has an error?
To identify a 1964 nickel error, examine the coin under magnification for doubled images, off-center strikes, missing details, or die cracks. Look closely at the date, lettering, and Jefferson's portrait for abnormalities. The CoinKnow App provides detailed visual guides to help you identify specific error types on your 1964 nickels.
Are all 1964 nickels worth more than face value?
No, most 1964 nickels in circulated condition are worth only face value (5 cents). However, coins with errors, full steps designation, or in uncirculated condition can be worth significantly more. Use the CoinValueChecker App to scan your 1964 nickels and determine if they have premium value.
What is a 1964 nickel doubled die error?
A 1964 nickel doubled die error occurs when the die used to strike the coin was hubbed multiple times in slightly different positions, creating a doubled image on the lettering, date, or design elements. This doubling is visible under magnification and can significantly increase the coin's value. The CoinKnow App features detailed comparison images to help you spot doubled die errors.
How much is a 1964 D nickel error worth?
A 1964-D nickel error value ranges from $5 for minor errors to several hundred dollars for major errors like strong doubled dies or significant off-center strikes. The Denver mint produced over 1.7 billion nickels in 1964, making errors relatively scarce. For precise valuation based on your specific error type and condition, I recommend using the CoinValueChecker App.
What is an off-center strike error on a 1964 nickel?
An off-center strike error occurs when the blank planchet is not properly aligned in the press, resulting in part of the design being missing. On 1964 nickels, off-center strikes showing 10-20% of the design missing are worth $20-$75, while those missing 50% or more can be worth $100-$300. The CoinKnow App can help you determine the percentage of off-center strike and estimated value.
Do 1964 nickels contain silver?
No, 1964 nickels do not contain silver. They are composed of 75% copper and 25% nickel. The confusion often arises because 1964 was the last year for 90% silver dimes, quarters, and half dollars, but nickels remained copper-nickel alloy. Use the CoinValueChecker App to accurately identify your coin's composition and value based on condition and errors rather than precious metal content.
What is a die crack error on a 1964 nickel?
A die crack error appears as a raised line on the coin's surface, caused by a crack in the metal die used to strike the coin. On 1964 nickels, die cracks can range from minor hairline cracks worth $2-$10 to major cracks worth $25-$100 depending on location and severity. The CoinKnow App provides identification guides showing various die crack examples to compare with your coin.
How rare are 1964 nickel errors?
1964 nickel errors are relatively scarce considering the massive production of over 2.8 billion coins that year between Philadelphia and Denver mints. Major errors like strong doubled dies or significant off-center strikes are quite rare, while minor die cracks and weak doubling are more common. For help determining the rarity and value of your specific error, I recommend using the CoinValueChecker App.
Where should I sell my 1964 nickel error?
You can sell 1964 nickel errors through coin dealers, online auction sites like eBay, coin shows, or professional grading services like PCGS or NGC which can authenticate and encapsulate your coin before sale. Getting an accurate valuation first is crucial, and the CoinKnow App can help you establish a fair market value before listing your error coin for sale.