Jefferson nickels have been in circulation since 1938, and while most are only worth five cents, some are highly valuable due to their rarity, mint mark, or condition.
Whether you’re a collector or just curious, knowing which nickels are valuable can help you determine if you have a hidden treasure in your pocket change.
Standard Jefferson Nickels
Most Jefferson nickels are common and only worth their face value of five cents. However, coins in uncirculated condition or those with rare mint marks may be worth much more.
Older nickels, especially those made before 1964, are often more sought after due to their historical significance.
Rare Jefferson Nickels and Their Values
1939 Jefferson Nickels
- Why It’s Special: Some 1939 nickels, especially those with an “S” mint mark or no mint mark, are considered valuable.
- Value Range: Depending on the condition, these coins can be worth $5 to $50 or more.
Wartime Silver Nickels (1942–1945)
- Composition: Made of 35% silver to conserve nickel for World War II.
- Value: Their silver content gives them a base value of $1 to $2, but uncirculated examples are worth much more.
1950-D Jefferson Nickel
- Why It’s Rare: One of the lowest-mintage Jefferson nickels, making it highly sought after.
- Value: Circulated examples start at $10, while high-grade versions can sell for hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
Pre-1964 Copper-Nickel Alloys
- Why Collectors Want Them: These older nickels (1938–1964) have better production quality and historical value.
- Value: Well-preserved coins can be worth anywhere from a few dollars to several dollars.
Uncirculated Jefferson Nickels
Nickels that have never been used in circulation are more valuable because they remain in excellent condition.
- Value: Key years, like 1938 and 1950-D, can be worth from a few dollars to hundreds of dollars, depending on their grade.
Importance of Coin Grading
Coins are graded based on their condition, with a scale from 1 to 70. Higher grades mean better preservation and higher value.
Common Grades:
- Good (G): Worn with few details remaining.
- Very Fine (VF): Some wear but clear features.
- Extremely Fine (XF): Minimal wear with sharp details.
- Mint State (MS): No wear, retains its original shine.
Higher-graded coins from rare years or mint condition coins often bring the highest prices.
Silver Wartime Nickels (1942–1945)
Jefferson nickels from WWII are especially valuable due to their silver content.
- Composition: 35% silver, 56% copper, 9% manganese.
- Value: The silver melt value alone is $1 to $2, but well-preserved ones can be worth more.
Mint Marks and Their Importance
Mint marks indicate where a coin was made, and certain mint marks increase its value.
- “P” (Philadelphia): Usually the least valuable.
- “D” (Denver): More valuable in rare years like 1950.
- “S” (San Francisco): Often worth more due to lower mintage numbers.
Tips for Collectors
- Check Mint Marks: Look for key dates like 1939-S, 1950-D, and wartime silver nickels.
- Examine Condition: Coins in better shape are worth more.
- Use a Grading Service: Professional grading from PCGS or NGC can increase value.
- Watch Silver Prices: Since wartime nickels contain silver, their value may fluctuate based on the market.
Jefferson nickels are more than just common coins—they can be valuable collectibles if they have rare dates, special mint marks, or are in excellent condition.
Taking the time to inspect and research your nickels might uncover a hidden gem worth far more than five cents.
