Jefferson Nickels have been in circulation since 1938, and while most are only worth their face value, a few rare varieties and minting errors have sold for over $10,000. If you have an old nickel in your collection, you might be holding a hidden gem!
This guide highlights 10 of the most valuable Jefferson Nickels, what makes them special, and how to identify and sell them.
1. 1942-D Over Horizontal D Nickel – $32,900
- Why It’s Valuable: This rare mint error features a repunched “D” mintmark, initially struck horizontally.
- Auction Record: $32,900 for a top-grade specimen.
- How to Identify: Look closely under magnification to see a faint horizontal “D” beneath the primary mintmark.
2. 1943-P “Full Steps” Nickel – $14,687
- Why It’s Valuable: The “Full Steps” variety refers to a sharp, uninterrupted depiction of Monticello’s steps.
- Auction Record: $14,687 for an MS-67 example.
- How to Identify: Look for at least five clearly visible steps on Monticello.
3. 1949-D D Over S Nickel – $32,200
- Why It’s Valuable: This over-mintmark variety occurred when an “S” was initially stamped, then corrected with a “D.”
- Auction Record: $32,200 in Mint State.
- How to Identify: Under magnification, you’ll spot remnants of an “S” beneath the “D.”
4. 1950-D Jefferson Nickel – $17,250
- Why It’s Valuable: This has the lowest mintage of all Jefferson Nickels, with only 2.6 million produced.
- Auction Record: $17,250 for an MS-67+ example.
- How to Identify: Look for an uncirculated coin with Full Steps detail.
5. 1964 SMS Jefferson Nickel – $32,900
- Why It’s Valuable: This mysterious Special Mint Set (SMS) nickel has a sharp strike and satin finish.
- Auction Record: $32,900 for an MS-68 grade.
- How to Identify: Unlike regular 1964 nickels, this version has an unusual texture and lacks a mintmark.
6. 1969-S Doubled Die Obverse Nickel – $15,275
- Why It’s Valuable: Features strong doubling on the date and “LIBERTY.”
- Auction Record: $15,275 for an MS-65 example.
- How to Identify: Examine the date and lettering for clear doubling effects.
7. 1971 No-S Proof Jefferson Nickel – $13,500
- Why It’s Valuable: A proof coin missing the required “S” mintmark from the San Francisco Mint.
- Auction Record: $13,500 for a PR-67 example.
- How to Identify: Found only in Proof Sets, but lacking the “S” mintmark.
8. 1979-S Type 2 Proof Nickel – $10,925
- Why It’s Valuable: Features a distinct, well-defined “S” mintmark, different from the earlier Type 1.
- Auction Record: $10,925 for a PR-70 specimen.
- How to Identify: Check for a sharp and clear “S” mintmark compared to the blobby Type 1.
9. 1981-S Type 2 Proof Nickel – $12,000
- Why It’s Valuable: Like the 1979-S, this Type 2 features a more precise mintmark.
- Auction Record: $12,000 in perfect PR-70 condition.
- How to Identify: Inspect the “S” mintmark under magnification for a refined appearance.
10. 1997-P “Full Steps” Nickel – $12,000
- Why It’s Valuable: A modern rarity with an exceptionally sharp strike.
- Auction Record: $12,000 for an MS-67+ specimen.
- How to Identify: Look for a crisp, uninterrupted Full Steps design on Monticello.
Table of Contents
How to Identify Valuable Jefferson Nickels
If you want to determine whether your Jefferson Nickel is valuable, follow these steps:
Step 1: Check the Date and Mintmark
Certain years have mintmark errors or low mintage numbers.
Step 2: Look for Full Steps (FS) Details
Nickels with well-defined steps on Monticello can fetch higher prices.
Step 3: Inspect for Doubling or Over-Mintmarks
Use magnification to identify doubled dies or over-mintmarks.
Step 4: Get Professional Grading
Send rare finds to PCGS or NGC for authentication and grading.
Where to Sell Rare Jefferson Nickels
If you own one of these valuable nickels, here are the best ways to sell them:
- Major Coin Auctions – Heritage Auctions and Stack’s Bowers are great for high-value sales.
- Online Marketplaces – eBay, GreatCollections, and PCGS CoinFacts Marketplace offer broad exposure.
- Numismatic Dealers – Certified dealers provide fair pricing and quick transactions.
- Coin Shows & Conventions – Attend ANA Coin Shows or local events to connect with potential buyers.
Conclusion
Jefferson Nickels may seem like ordinary pocket change, but some rare varieties can be worth over $10,000. Checking your collection for these valuable nickels could lead to an exciting discovery.
If you find a rare specimen, consider professional grading and use reputable selling platforms to maximize its value.
FAQs
1. How do I know if my Jefferson Nickel is valuable?
Check for key dates, mintmarks, errors, and Full Steps details. Having it graded by PCGS or NGC can confirm its value.
2. What is the most expensive Jefferson Nickel ever sold?
The 1964 SMS Jefferson Nickel holds the record at $32,900 for an MS-68 specimen.
3. Where can I sell my rare nickel?
Sell through major auctions, online marketplaces, coin dealers, and numismatic shows.
4. Are all old Jefferson Nickels valuable?
No, only specific dates, mint errors, and high-grade examples fetch significant prices.
5. How can I protect my rare Jefferson Nickel?
Store it in a certified coin holder and avoid cleaning it, as this can reduce its value.
