Expert: Jim Lawniczak - 1/5/2008

Question
My father has a 1902 silver coin, with a "v" printed on the back of it.  I would like to  know it's value.  The front of the coin has thirteen stars around the top of it.  On the back, the "v" is enclosed with some sort of floral design.

Answer
Hello, Morgan, sounds like you are referring to the Liberty nickel, made of nickel and copper and not of silver (it is silver colored).  The value depends on condition and will range from about a dollar in very worn condition to $100 or so in nice uncirculated condition (still looks just like it was made a minute ago).  You can go to www.ebay.com and do a search for 1902 nickel and you'll see some for sale.  Please don't try to improve the condition of your piece, it can't be done -- anyone really interested in it will be able to tell and you will substantially reduce, not increase, the value.  Jim Lawniczak