Thomas Jefferson, the eloquent author of the Declaration of Independence and the third President of the United States, has graced the five-cent coin, commonly known as the nickel, since 1938. These coins, minted across Denver, Philadelphia, San Francisco, and even West Point, are more than just pocket change. For keen collectors and those curious about coin value, certain Jefferson nickels can be surprisingly worth money, far exceeding their face value. Let’s delve into the fascinating world of Jefferson nickels and uncover which of these unassuming coins could be hiding in plain sight, holding significant worth.
Unveiling the Most Valuable Jefferson Nickels: A Collector’s Guide
| Year | Errors/Varieties | Estimated Value |
| 1938 | Uncirculated S Jefferson Nickel | $2,000 |
| 1939 | Jefferson Nickel Doubled Monticello DDR | $23,500 |
| 1940 | Full Steps Jefferson Nickel | $21,738 |
| 1941 | Off-Center Jefferson Nickel | $100 |
| 1942 | Frith Jefferson Nickel | $175,000 |
| 1943 | P Jefferson Nickel (3 Over 2) Overdate | $16,675 |
| 1944 | Re-Punched Mint Mark Jefferson Nickel | $750 |
| 1945 | Uncirculated P Jefferson Nickel | $2,250 |
| 1946 | Doubled Die Full Steps Jefferson Nickel | $900 |
| 1947 | Off-Center Jefferson Nickel | $100 |
| 1948 | Full Steps Jefferson Nickel | $12,000 |
| 1949 | Uncirculated Jefferson Nickel | $825 |
| 1950 | Uncirculated D Jefferson Nickel | $550 |
| 1951 | Uncirculated D Jefferson Nickel | $10 |
| 1952 | Proof Jefferson Nickel Re-Engraved Obverse | $1,850 |
| 1953 | Uncirculated S Jefferson Nickel | $450 |
| 1954 | Repunched Mint Mark Jefferson Nickel | $3,450 |
| 1955 | D Over S Jefferson Nickel | $3,738 |
| 1956 | Uncirculated Jefferson Nickel | $210 |
| 1957 | Full-Steps Jefferson Nickel | $4,303 |
| 1958 | Inverted D Jefferson Nickel | $1,000 |
| 1959 | Jefferson Nickel Struck On A Penny Planchet | $1,000 |
| 1960 | No Mint Mark Proof Jefferson Nickel, Quadruple Die Reverse | $1,000 |
| 1961 | Doubled Die And Tripled Die Jefferson Nickel | $170 |
| 1962 | D Jefferson Nickel Over-Struck On A 1962 D Cent | $900 |
| 1963 | D Jefferson Nickel Struck On A Dime Planchet | $550 |
| 1964 | Struck On A 10-Centavo Jefferson Nickel | $1,200 |
| 1965 | No Mint Mark Jefferson Nickel, Foldover Strike | $4,300 |
| 1966 | Jefferson Nickel Struck On 10C Planchet | $800.00 |
| 1967 | Uncirculated Jefferson Nickel | $200 |
| 1968 | Uncirculated S Jefferson Nickel | $250 |
| 1969 | Uncirculated S Jefferson Nickel | $500 |
| 1970 | S Jefferson Nickel, Double Struck And Broadstruck | $2,000 |
| 1971 | Uncirculated D Jefferson Nickel | $70 |
| 1972 | Uncirculated D Jefferson Nickel | $400 |
| 1973 | D Nickel, Double Struck, Second Strike 75 Per Cent Off-Center | $585.00 |
| 1974 | Jefferson Nickel Struck On A 1973 Jefferson Nickel | $17,500 |
| 1975 | Uncirculated Jefferson Nickel | $75 |
| 1976 | Curved Clip Jefferson Nickel | $100 |
| 1977 | Struck On An Incorrect Planchet Jefferson Nickel | $150 |
| 1978 | Uncirculated D Jefferson Nickel | $300 |
| 1979 | Jefferson Nickel Struck On A Steel Washer | $4,800 |
| 1980 | Uncirculated P Jefferson Nickel | $150 |
| 1981 | Uncirculated D Jefferson Nickel | $75 |
| 1982 | Uncirculated D Jefferson Nickel | $190 |
| 1983 | Uncirculated P Jefferson Nickel | $150 |
| 1984 | Uncirculated P Jefferson Nickel | $75 |
| 1985 | Uncirculated D Jefferson Nickel | $70 |
| 1986 | Uncirculated P Jefferson Nickel | $75 |
| 1987 | Uncirculated D Jefferson Nickel | $50 |
| 1988 | Uncirculated P Jefferson Nickel | $70 |
| 1989 | Uncirculated P Jefferson Nickel | $70 |
| 1990 | Uncirculated P Jefferson Nickel | $70 |
| 1991 | Uncirculated P Jefferson Nickel | $60 |
| 1992 | Uncirculated P Jefferson Nickel | $70 |
| 1993 | Uncirculated P Jefferson Nickel | $60 |
| 1994 | Uncirculated D Jefferson Nickel | $70 |
| 1995 | Uncirculated P Jefferson Nickel | $70 |
| 1996 | Uncirculated P Jefferson Nickel | $45 |
| 1997 | Uncirculated P Jefferson Nickel | $70 |
| 1998 | Uncirculated P Jefferson Nickel | $70 |
| 1999 | Uncirculated P Jefferson Nickel | $45 |
| 2000 | Uncirculated P Jefferson Nickel | $55 |
| 2001 | Uncirculated P Jefferson Nickel | $45 |
| 2002 | Uncirculated P Jefferson Nickel | $45 |
| 2003 | Uncirculated P Jefferson Nickel | $50 |
| 2004 | Uncirculated P Jefferson Nickel | $175 |
| 2005 | Uncirculated D Bison Jefferson Nickel | $70 |
| 2006 | Uncirculated P Jefferson Nickel | $50 |
| 2007 | Uncirculated P Jefferson Nickel | $50 |
| 2008 | Uncirculated D Jefferson Nickel | $50 |
| 2009 | Uncirculated P Jefferson Nickel | $50 |
| 2010 | Uncirculated P Jefferson Nickel | $50 |
| 2011 | Uncirculated D Jefferson Nickel | $50 |
| 2012 | Uncirculated D Jefferson Nickel | $50 |
| 2013 | Uncirculated D Jefferson Nickel | $50 |
| 2014 | Uncirculated P Jefferson Nickel | $50 |
| 2015 | Uncirculated D Jefferson Nickel | $50 |
| 2016 | Uncirculated P Jefferson Nickel | $50 |
| 2017 | Uncirculated D Jefferson Nickel | $50 |
| 2018 | Uncirculated D Jefferson Nickel | $50 |
| 2019 | Uncirculated D Jefferson Nickel | $50 |
| 2020 | Uncirculated P Jefferson Nickel | $20 |
| 2021 | Uncirculated P Jefferson Nickel | $50 |
| 2022 | Uncirculated D Jefferson Nickel | $20 |
| 2023 | Off-Center Jefferson Nickel | $150 |
| 2024 | Proof S Jefferson Nickel | $4.95 |
Delving deeper into the world of numismatics, we discover that not all nickels are created equal. Certain Jefferson nickels, due to minting errors, unique varieties, or historical significance, can command impressive values in the coin collecting market. This guide explores some of the most valuable Jefferson nickels, revealing what makes them special and how much they are worth money to collectors today.
The Jefferson Nickel Legacy: More Than Just Five Cents
The Jefferson nickel replaced the Buffalo nickel in 1938, marking a shift in American coinage. Designed by Felix Schlag, the coin features a portrait of Thomas Jefferson on the obverse and his iconic Monticello home on the reverse. While millions of Jefferson nickels circulate daily at their face value of five cents, a select few are highly sought after by collectors. These valuable nickels often possess unique characteristics that set them apart from the common coins in circulation.
Key Factors That Determine a Nickel’s Worth
Several elements contribute to a Jefferson nickel’s value beyond its face value:
- Mint Year and Mint Mark: The year a nickel was minted and the mint location (indicated by a mint mark – D for Denver, S for San Francisco, P for Philadelphia, and W for West Point) are crucial. Certain years and mint marks are rarer due to lower mintage numbers or specific historical events.
- Errors: Minting errors, such as doubled dies, off-center strikes, or repunched mint marks, can dramatically increase a nickel’s value. These errors are anomalies that make the coin unique and desirable.
- Condition (Grade): The condition of a coin, graded on a scale from Poor to Mint State (MS), significantly impacts its worth. Uncirculated coins in pristine condition (“Mint State”) are generally more valuable than worn coins. Within Mint State grades, factors like “Full Steps” (FS) on Jefferson nickels, referring to the sharpness and completeness of the steps at Monticello, can further enhance value.
- Varieties: Specific design variations, like the 1939 Doubled Monticello or the 1942 D/D Horizontal, are highly collectible and valuable.
- Historical Context: Wartime nickels, minted from 1942-1945 with a unique silver composition to conserve nickel for the war effort, hold historical significance and are collectible.
Spotlight on Exceptionally Valuable Jefferson Nickels
Let’s examine some of the most valuable Jefferson nickels and what makes them stand out:
1. 1942/41-P Overdate Jefferson Nickel
- Year: 1942 (Over 1941)
- Mint Mark: Philadelphia (P)
- Estimated Value: Potentially upwards of $175,000 (for the “Frith” variety)
The 1942 overdate nickel is a legendary error in the Jefferson nickel series. It occurred when a 1942 die was mistakenly punched over a 1941 die, resulting in a visible “2” over the “1” in the date. The “Frith” variety, named after its discoverer, is particularly famous and valuable. This error highlights the human element in the minting process and the fascinating anomalies that can occur.
2. 1939 Doubled Monticello Jefferson Nickel
- Year: 1939
- Mint Mark: None (Philadelphia)
- Estimated Value: Around $23,500 (in high Mint State grades with Full Steps)
This nickel exhibits a “doubled die reverse” (DDR) error, where the image of Monticello on the reverse appears doubled. This doubling is a result of a mistake in the die-making process. The 1939 DDR is a significant variety for collectors, especially those in exceptional condition with “Full Steps,” showcasing sharp details in the steps of Monticello.
3. 1938-D Jefferson Nickel Full Step Regular Strike
- Year: 1938
- Mint Mark: Denver (D)
- Estimated Value: Can reach $33,600 (in MS 68+ FS grade)
As the first year of Jefferson nickel production, the 1938-D is inherently collectible. However, specimens graded MS 68+ FS, representing extremely high uncirculated condition with fully defined steps at Monticello, are exceptionally rare and valuable. This coin represents the dawn of the Jefferson nickel era and the high standards collectors seek.
1938-D Jefferson Nickel Full Step Regular Strike
4. 1942 D/D Horizontal Full Step Jefferson Nickel Regular Strike
- Year: 1942
- Mint Mark: Denver (D or Horizontal D)
- Estimated Value: Around $32,200 (in MS 64 FS grade)
This variety features a repunched mint mark (RPM) error, where the “D” mint mark was punched twice, resulting in a doubled or horizontal appearance. Combined with the Full Steps designation, this 1942-D/D RPM nickel is a prized find, showcasing a combination of minting errors and desirable condition.
Alt text: Detailed image of a 1942 D/D Horizontal Full Step Jefferson Nickel, clearly showing the doubled “D” mint mark and the sought-after Full Steps designation.
5. 1940 Reverse of 1938 Jefferson Nickel Proof
- Year: 1940 (Reverse of 1938)
- Mint Mark: None (Philadelphia)
- Estimated Value: Approaching $28,750 (in PR 68 grade)
This unique proof coin features a reverse die intended for the 1938 issue, used on a 1940 coin. This “mismatched die” error is a fascinating anomaly for proof coins, which are typically struck with greater care and quality control. Its rarity and proof status contribute to its significant value.
6. 1953-S Jefferson Nickel Full Step Regular Strike
- Year: 1953
- Mint Mark: San Francisco (S)
- Estimated Value: Reaching $24,000 (in MS 65 FS grade)
The 1953-S Jefferson nickel in Full Steps condition is remarkably scarce. High-grade examples with fully defined steps are highly prized by collectors due to their low survival rate in such pristine condition. This coin highlights the importance of condition and mint mark rarity in determining value.
1953-S Jefferson Nickel Full Step Regular Strike
7. 1964-D/D Repunched Mint Mark (RPM) Jefferson Nickel
- Year: 1964
- Mint Mark: Denver (D over D)
- Estimated Value: Around $19,800 (in MS 66 grade)
Similar to the 1942 D/D, the 1964-D/D RPM nickel showcases a repunched mint mark error. The Denver “D” was struck twice, creating a noticeable doubling. This error variety, particularly in higher grades, makes the 1964-D/D RPM a valuable addition to any Jefferson nickel collection.
1964-D/D Repunched Mint Mark (RPM) Jefferson Nickel
8. 1962 Jefferson Nickel Full Step Regular Strike
- Year: 1962
- Mint Mark: None (Philadelphia)
- Estimated Value: Up to $21,150 (in MS 67+ FS grade)
While Philadelphia-minted Jefferson nickels are generally more common, the 1962 Philadelphia in MS 67+ FS grade is surprisingly rare. Finding a 1962 nickel with such exceptional condition and Full Steps is a challenge, making it valuable for discerning collectors.
1962 Jefferson Nickel Full Step Regular Strike
9. 1941 Jefferson Nickel Proof
- Year: 1941
- Mint Mark: None (Philadelphia)
- Estimated Value: Potentially $18,800 (in PR 68 grade)
Proof Jefferson nickels from the early years of the series are generally scarce. The 1941 proof, in a high grade like PR 68, is a sought-after example of early proof coinage, showcasing the special striking process used to create these collector coins.
1941 Jefferson Nickel Proof
10. 1947-S Jefferson Nickel Full Step Regular Strike
- Year: 1947
- Mint Mark: San Francisco (S)
- Estimated Value: Around $14,950 (in MS 67 FS grade)
The 1947-S nickel, in Full Steps condition, is another example of a San Francisco mint mark coin that is scarce in high grades. Collectors value the combination of the “S” mint mark and the Full Steps designation, making it a valuable piece in the Jefferson nickel series.
1947-S Jefferson Nickel Full Step Regular Strike
11. 1952-D Jefferson Nickel Full Step Regular Strike
- Year: 1952
- Mint Mark: Denver (D)
- Estimated Value: Reaching $16,450 (in MS 67 FS grade)
Similar to other nickels on this list, the 1952-D Jefferson nickel in Full Steps condition is a condition rarity. Finding this coin with fully defined steps in a high mint state grade is challenging, making it a valuable target for collectors focused on condition and detail.
12. 1950-D Jefferson Nickel Full Step Regular Strike
- Year: 1950
- Mint Mark: Denver (D)
- Estimated Value: Potentially $17,250 (in MS 67 FS grade)
The 1950-D Jefferson nickel is another key date in the series, particularly sought after in Full Steps condition. Its lower mintage compared to other years, combined with the demand for Full Steps examples, drives its value in the coin collecting market.
13. 1949 D/S Jefferson Nickel Full Step Regular Strike
- Year: 1949
- Mint Mark: Denver (D over S)
- Estimated Value: Around $32,900 (in MS 67 FS grade)
This nickel features an “over mint mark” error, where the Denver “D” mint mark was struck over an “S” mint mark. This D/S variety, combined with the Full Steps designation, makes the 1949 D/S FS Jefferson nickel a highly valuable and desirable error coin.
1949 D/S Jefferson Nickel Full Step Regular Strike
14. 1943/2 Overdate Jefferson Nickel Full Step Regular Strike
- Year: 1943 (Over 1942)
- Mint Mark: None (Philadelphia)
- Estimated Value: Up to $16,675 (in MS 67 FS grade)
Similar to the 1942/41 overdate, the 1943/2 overdate is another significant date error in the Jefferson nickel series. While less dramatic than the 1942/41, it’s still a valuable error variety, especially in high grades with Full Steps.
15. 1964 Jefferson Nickel Special Mint Set Full Step
- Year: 1964
- Mint Mark: None (Philadelphia)
- Estimated Value: Reaching $32,900 (in SP 68 FS grade)
In 1964, the U.S. Mint produced Special Mint Sets (SMS) instead of proof coins. The 1964 SMS Jefferson nickels, particularly those with Full Steps and in high grades like SP 68 FS (Special Proof), are very rare and valuable. These SMS coins represent a unique period in U.S. Mint history.
Are There Valuable Nickels in Your Pocket?
While finding one of these highly valuable Jefferson nickels in everyday circulation is rare, understanding what makes certain nickels worth money can add an exciting dimension to checking your spare change. Look for key dates, mint marks, and any signs of errors or exceptional condition. Resources like coin value websites and professional coin grading services can help you determine if you’ve stumbled upon a nickel worth more than just five cents.
Embark on Your Coin Collecting Journey
The world of coin collecting, or numismatics, is rich with history, artistry, and the potential for uncovering hidden values. Exploring Jefferson nickels is a great starting point for anyone interested in learning more about coins and their worth. Who knows, you might just discover a valuable nickel and ignite a lifelong passion for coin collecting!
Disclaimer: Coin values are subject to market fluctuations and depend heavily on condition and grading. Values mentioned are approximate based on past sales and are not guarantees of current market prices.
