1912 Liberty Head Nickel Value Guide

The 1912 Liberty Head Nickel represents the historic conclusion of Charles E. Barber's iconic 'V' design, which served American commerce for nearly three decades. This specific year is highly collectible as it marks the first time the series was produced at branch mints in Denver and San Francisco alongside the Philadelphia Mint.

What Is 1912 Liberty Head Nickel Worth?

The typical price range for 1912 Liberty Head Nickel is $2 - $4 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• Mint Mark: Coins struck in San Francisco (1912-S) are significantly rarer and more valuable than Philadelphia or Denver issues.
• Condition: Wear on Liberty's hair details and the 'LIBERTY' inscription on the coronet heavily dictates the $2.00 to $4.00 base value.
• Luster: Original mint bloom and lack of surface scratches or environmental damage command premium prices from collectors.
• Strike Quality: Sharpness of the stars on the obverse and the corn ears on the reverse wreath affects the final grade.

How to Identify 1912 Liberty Head Nickel?

• Look for the profile of Liberty facing left on the obverse, surrounded by 13 stars and the 1912 date.
• Check the reverse for a large Roman numeral 'V' inside a wreath of wheat, cotton, and corn.
• Inspect the bottom left of the reverse, near the rim, for a small 'D' or 'S' mint mark; Philadelphia issues have no mark.
• Verify the composition is 75% copper and 25% nickel with a diameter of 21.2 millimeters.

History of 1912 Liberty Head Nickel

Designed by Charles E. Barber, the Liberty Head nickel, often called the V nickel due to its reverse design, was minted from 1883 to 1912. The 1912 issue is particularly notable because it was the final year of regular production and the first year nickels were struck at branch mints in Denver and San Francisco. This coin served as a workhorse of American commerce during the Gilded Age and the transition into the modern industrial era.