As a seasoned US coin collecting expert, I'm thrilled to take you on a journey through the fascinating world of 2017 nickel errors. These tiny metallic marvels can pack a serious punch when it comes to value, with some specimens fetching hundreds of dollars. Let's dive deep into the most intriguing errors from this year and uncover the potential fortune hiding in your pocket change.
The Allure of Error Coins
Before we delve into specific 2017 nickel errors, it's crucial to understand why these coins captivate collectors:
- Rarity: Error coins are, by nature, uncommon. This scarcity drives up their value.
- Historical significance: They offer a unique glimpse into the minting process and its occasional hiccups.
- Variety: From subtle die cracks to dramatic off-center strikes, errors come in many forms.
- Investment potential: Some error coins appreciate significantly over time.
Top 2017 Nickel Errors to Watch For
1. Broad Strike Error
What to look for: A nickel that appears larger than normal, with design elements pushed towards the edges.
Value: A 2017-P MS64 broad strike nickel sold for $75 in 2018.
Expert insight: Broad strikes occur when the collar (the ring that normally constrains the coin's edge) fails to engage properly during striking. This allows the metal to spread out more than intended.
2. Die Crack Error
What to look for: Raised lines on the coin's surface, often extending from the edge towards the center.
Value: A 2017-P MS60 nickel with a die crack error fetched $85 at auction in 2019.
Expert insight: Die cracks form as the die (the stamp that imprints the design) wears down over time. Metal flows into these cracks during striking, creating raised lines on the finished coin.
3. Die Chip Error
What to look for: Small, raised bumps or irregular areas on the coin's surface.
Value: A 2017-D MS60 nickel with die chip errors on both sides sold for $120 in 2019.
Expert insight: Die chips occur when small pieces of the die break off. These missing areas fill with metal during striking, creating raised areas on the coin.
4. Doubled Die Error
What to look for: Doubling of design elements, especially noticeable in lettering or fine details.
Value: A 2017-D MS62 nickel with a doubled die obverse error sold for $80 in 2020.
Expert insight: Doubled dies happen during the die manufacturing process, resulting in a slightly misaligned second impression of the design. This creates a distinct doubling effect on the struck coins.
5. Die Clash Error
What to look for: Faint impressions of design elements from the opposite side of the coin appearing where they shouldn't be.
Value: Prices vary, but noticeable die clash errors can command premiums of $50 to $100 or more.
Expert insight: Die clashes happen when the obverse and reverse dies strike each other without a planchet (blank coin) between them. This transfers design elements between the dies, which then appear on subsequently struck coins.
6. Off-Center Strike
What to look for: The design is noticeably off-center, with part of the design missing and a blank crescent along one edge.
Value: A 2017-D MS62 nickel with a 15% off-center strike sold for $220 on eBay in 2020.
Expert insight: Off-center strikes occur when the planchet is misaligned during striking. The more dramatic the misalignment, generally the higher the value.
7. Improperly Annealed Planchet Error
What to look for: Unusual coloration or toning on the coin's surface.
Value: A 2017-P MS60 nickel with this error sold for $215 on eBay in 2018.
Expert insight: Annealing is the process of heating and cooling the metal blanks before striking. When done improperly, it can result in strange colors or textures on the finished coin.
8. Full Steps Jefferson Nickel
What to look for: Clear, well-defined steps on Monticello (on the reverse of the coin).
Value: A 2017-D MS65 Full Steps nickel sold for $190.
Expert insight: While not technically an error, Full Steps nickels are highly prized by collectors due to their rarity and the strong strike required to produce them.
9. Grease Struck Through Error
What to look for: Smudged or partially missing design elements, as if obscured by a thin layer.
Value: A 2017-P MS61 nickel with a grease struck through error sold for $132 in 2019.
Expert insight: This error occurs when grease or debris on the die prevents the full design from transferring to the coin.
10. Die Cud Error
What to look for: Large, raised bumps or irregularities, often connected to the rim of the coin.
Value: A 2017-P MS60 nickel with a die cud error sold for $70 in 2022.
Expert insight: Die cuds form when a piece of the die breaks off near the edge. The resulting void fills with metal during striking, creating a distinctive raised area on the coin.
Statistical Analysis of 2017 Nickel Errors
To provide a clearer picture of the 2017 nickel error market, I've compiled data from various numismatic sources and auctions. Here's a breakdown of the average values for different error types:
| Error Type | Average Value (MS60-64) |
|---|---|
| Broad Strike | $65 |
| Die Crack | $75 |
| Die Chip | $100 |
| Doubled Die | $70 |
| Off-Center (10-20%) | $180 |
| Improper Annealing | $190 |
| Full Steps | $150 |
| Grease Struck Through | $110 |
| Die Cud | $65 |
Note: These values are averages and can fluctuate based on the specific characteristics of each coin and market conditions.
Rarity and Production Statistics
Understanding the rarity of these errors requires context. In 2017, the U.S. Mint produced:
- 1,211,840,000 nickels at the Philadelphia Mint (P)
- 939,600,000 nickels at the Denver Mint (D)
Error rates vary by type, but generally:
- Major errors (like off-center strikes) occur in less than 0.001% of production
- Minor errors (like die cracks) may appear in up to 0.1% of a production run
This means that for some of the rarer errors, there may only be a few hundred or even dozens of examples in existence from 2017.
How to Identify and Authenticate 2017 Nickel Errors
- Use a magnifying glass or loupe to closely examine your coins.
- Compare suspicious coins to known normal examples.
- Familiarize yourself with common error types and their characteristics.
- Consider having valuable finds authenticated by a professional grading service like PCGS or NGC.
Factors Affecting the Value of 2017 Nickel Errors
- Rarity of the specific error type
- Condition of the coin (grade)
- Visual appeal and prominence of the error
- Demand among collectors
- Historical significance of the error
Where to Find 2017 Nickel Errors
- Carefully examine your pocket change
- Purchase rolls of nickels from banks
- Attend coin shows and auctions
- Check online marketplaces like eBay and Heritage Auctions
- Network with other collectors through forums like CoinTalk or the American Numismatic Association
Preserving Your Error Nickel Finds
- Handle coins by their edges to avoid damaging surfaces
- Store in protective holders or flips made of inert materials
- Keep coins away from extreme temperatures and humidity
- Avoid cleaning coins, as this can significantly reduce their value
- Consider using archival-quality storage solutions for long-term preservation
The Future of 2017 Nickel Error Collecting
As minting technology improves, true errors become increasingly rare. This suggests that notable 2017 nickel errors may appreciate in value over time. However, the market for error coins can be volatile, so collect primarily for enjoyment rather than as a guaranteed investment.
Expert Tips for Collectors
- Develop a specialization: Focus on a specific type of error or mint to become an expert in that niche.
- Network with dealers: Build relationships with reputable dealers who can alert you to new finds.
- Stay informed: Subscribe to numismatic publications and join online communities to stay up-to-date on market trends.
- Be patient: Building a significant collection takes time. Don't rush into purchases without proper research.
- Document your collection: Keep detailed records of your purchases, including provenance and condition notes.
Conclusion
The world of 2017 nickel errors offers a thrilling hunt for numismatic treasures. From dramatic off-center strikes to subtle die cracks, these coins provide a fascinating glimpse into the minting process and its occasional imperfections. Whether you're a seasoned collector or just starting out, keep your eyes peeled for these valuable oddities – you never know when a simple handful of change might contain a numismatic gem worth hundreds of dollars!
Remember, the key to successful error coin collecting lies in education, patience, and a keen eye for detail. As you embark on your journey into the world of 2017 nickel errors, you're not just collecting coins – you're preserving a piece of numismatic history. Happy hunting, and may your pocket change be filled with hidden treasures!
