Early 5-cent pieces weren’t made of nickel — instead crafted from either gold, silver or copper. The modern American nickel wasn’t created until 1866.
These first nickels were known as “Shield nickels” and were produced from 1866 to 1883, according to the American Bullion website.
Those were followed by the Liberty Head nickel (1883-1913), Buffalo or Indian Head nickel (1913-1938) and Jefferson nickel (1938-present).
In terms of rarity and value, you’re most likely to find the most valuable nickels in older, pre-World War I mintages.
Beyond that, some error nickels might fetch a high price, including “overdate” nickels where the year is stamped over an older year.
Keep in mind that only coins in top condition will command the highest prices. 1926-S Buffalo Nickel: $4,200 1916 Double Die Buffalo Nickel: $3,800
1918/17-D Buffalo Nickel (overdated):$3,500 1879 Shield Nickel: $2,400 1937-D 3-Legged Buffalo Nickel: $2,000 1880 Shield Nickel: $2,000