What is the value of a 1916 US nickel?

Answer 1

1916 isn't generally a rare date for early Indian Head nickels except for the double-die variety. Look on the back of the coin to see if there's a small mint mark letter below the words FIVE CENTS. It may be blank or there may be a D or S. (The F on the front of the coin is the designer's monogram and not a mint mark.)

Numismedia lists the following approximate retail values as of 03/2011:

No mint mark (Philadelphia):

Very worn condition - $5

Moderately worn - $7

Slightly worn - $8

Almost no wear - $22

Uncirculated - $42 to $6,340 depending on quality

"D" mint mark (Denver):

Very worn - $13

Moderately worn - $23

Slightly worn - $36

Almost no wear - $104

Uncirculated - $144 to $20,480

"S" mint mark (San Francisco):

Very worn - $10

Moderately worn - $18

Slightly worn - $35

Almost no wear - $109

Uncirculated - $180 to $22,750

The double-die variety will show a kind of ghost image of the "16" behind the main date. These coins are quite valuable:

Very worn - $3,410

Moderately worn - $8,060

Slightly worn - $11,810

Almost no wear - $33,438

Uncirculated - $53,130 to $455,000

DISCLAIMER: The retail values quoted are the best available as of the date shown, but may vary due to market fluctuations. Also the wholesale (buying) price of a coin will be less than the selling (retail) price. A reputable coin dealer will be able to give a more accurate valuation based on inspection of the coin.