How Much Is 1930 Nickel Worth?

Last Updated on August 4, 2022

The 1930 nickel is a special coin that was produced in the previous century. The design represents the diverse culture that was once founded in the US. In addition, there are many interesting facts about the 1930 nickel also known as the Buffalo nickel. 

Here is a complete guide that you may find interesting. 

1930 Buffalo Nickel VF-20

How Much Is 1930 Nickel Worth?

The 1930 nickel with no mintmark present is worth around $2 in good condition and $5 in very fine grade condition. In extremely fine condition, the nickel holds a value of $15. 

But for the uncirculated condition nickel with MS60 grade, the value can up to $40. In addition, the MS63 grade nickel is easily worth about $90. 

However, for the 1930 nickel with S mintmark present, it holds a value of about $2 in good and $4 in fine condition. If you are looking at a nickel in extremely fine condition, it holds a value of about $20. 

On the other hand, the 1930 nickel in uncirculated condition with MS60 grade is worth about $80. In addition, the MS63 grade nickel is valued at $150. 

How Much Was A Nickel Worth In 1930?

1930 Buffalo Nickel VF-20

The nickel in 1930 would be worth its face value which is 5 cents. In 1930 these nickels were in production and circulation. That is why they didn’t have any collector’s value at that time. 

But with years passing and the perfect condition coin becoming rare increased the demand for such coins. 

What Are 1930 Nickels Made Up Of?

The 1930 nickels are made up of 75% copper and just 25% nickel. Due to having the lowest face value, the government uses materials that are valuable a lot. 

It is important to understand the metal composition for people who are looking to get a melt value of these coins. But the melt value would be way lower than the value a coin can get depending on its condition. 

What Factors Help Determine The Value Of A 1930 Nickel?

Many factors come into play when you have to get a value of a precious, old coin. People only think that the better the condition, the higher value will be is the only factor. Yes, the condition of a coin is a factor but one of many. 

Here is a list of factors that you need to know about.

  • Availability

The 1930 nickel was produced in two mints and only in limited numbers. It has been 92 years since the 1930 nickels were produced. 

This would’ve affected the condition and availability of the coins. With years passing finding bad condition coins may be common. On the other hand, getting your hands on the highest quality coins in uncirculated condition may be very difficult. 

2. Condition

The condition the coin is in plays an important role in determining the value of a 1930 nickel. To easily assess the condition there is a grading system available for old coins. This grading system makes it easier for you to get a value. 

On the other hand, it also makes it easier for anyone to understand the condition just by hearing the grade that has been awarded. 

3. Variant

The variant depends on the mint the coin was produced. The best way to differentiate the two variants is the mintmark that is mainly present on the reverse side of a 1930 nickel. 

However, the 1930 nickels with no mintmark are produced in Philadelphia and are genuine. The quantity produced in every mint is different and therefore one variant may be difficult to find while the other may be common.  

What Is Present On The Obverse and Reverse Side On A 1930 Nickel?

On the obverse side of a 1930 nickel, you can see a portrait of an Indian man right in the center. On the right side of the portrait there is “LIBERTY” engraved and the year 1930 is present right on the bottom of the coin. 

The Indian man in the portrait is no one special it was just a design to highlight the features of Indian men found during that era. 

On the obverse side of the 1930 nickel, there is a portrait of a buffalo. Above the buffalo in the center of the coin “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” is engraved. 

In addition, the denomination ‘Five Cents’ is engraved on the bottom of the coin. Keep in mind if the nickel is of the S variant the mintmark will be present right under the denomination. So make sure to check if it is there or not. 

Jackie Palmer is a Houston-based coin journalist and fashion enthusiast. She joined Jewels Advisor’s content team after years of experience as a content strategist, managing blogs and social channels for local stores. Jackie mostly collects and studies US coins produced during the 20th century and over the years, published hundreds of articles for multiple coin publications.