Jefferson Nickels
(1938 – Current)
First minted in 1938, the Jefferson Nickel marked a turning point in American coinage. It replaced the rugged, wild frontier imagery of the Buffalo Nickel with a more refined, neoclassical vision—featuring a stoic portrait of Thomas Jefferson and a stately rendering of his Virginia home, Monticello. Designed by Felix Schlag, this coin embodied a modern shift in both aesthetics and national identity.
But the Jefferson Nickel is more than just a mid-century redesign. It’s a series that has quietly endured wars, economic shifts, and the evolution of minting technology. From the silver-alloy wartime nickels of the 1940s to the low-mintage key dates and modern special strikes, this series presents layered opportunities for collectors of every level.
Its appeal lies in its accessibility. Whether you’re assembling a full set from circulation, roll hunting for rare varieties, or chasing high-grade examples for a registry set, the Jefferson Nickel offers something for everyone. The series is filled with important die varieties, overdates, doubled dies, and subtle design changes—especially in the transition years like 2004–2006, when the Westward Journey series temporarily redefined the reverse.
For newer collectors, it’s a chance to learn about U.S. history through nickels that have passed through millions of hands. For experienced numismatists, it’s a deep well of research, grading nuance, and long-term potential. And for investors, certain key issues and errors—such as the 1939-D, Full Steps strikes, and dramatic repunched mint marks—offer compelling value growth.
Classic Jefferson Design
(1938–2003)
Jefferson Nickels began production in 1938, the same year the last Buffalo Nickels were struck. Felix Schlag’s winning design features Jefferson’s left-facing profile and Monticello on the reverse. While subtle design modifications have occurred, this format endured through 2003.
Composition: 75% copper, 25% nickel – a durable, corrosion-resistant alloy unchanged since its debut.
Mint Marks: Philadelphia (no mint mark until 1980), Denver (D), and San Francisco (S – mostly proof coins post-1970s).
Many early Jefferson Nickels hold collector premiums in circulated grades. Key dates such as 1939-D and 1950-D are particularly sought after.
Wartime Silver Nickels
(1942–1945)
Due to the critical need for nickel in World War II armament production, the composition changed in 1942:
Composition: 56% copper, 35% silver, 9% manganese
Silver Content: 0.05626 troy ounces per coin
Easily identified by their large mint marks placed above Monticello (including a large “P” for Philadelphia, the first time it was used), these nickels are highly collectible for both their historical significance and silver content. Silver nickels were only made from mid-1942 through 1945. A few 1942 nickels exist in both compositions (cupronickel and silver), so collectors take note.
Post-War Years and Modern Design
(1946–2003)
After 1945, Jefferson Nickels returned to their original cupronickel composition. The design saw modest adjustments in relief and strike detail, with a notable change in 1966 when designer Schlag’s initials “FS” were added below Jefferson’s portrait.
During these decades, most coins retained face value in circulated grades. However, uncirculated and proof issues—especially from San Francisco—command premiums. Key low-mintage coins include 1950-D and some full-step Monticello strikes.
Westward Journey Series
(2004–2005)
In honor of the bicentennial of the Lewis and Clark Expedition and the Louisiana Purchase, the U.S. Mint released four new designs across 2004–2005:
2 004 Peace Medal: Features clasped hands and peace pipe imagery.
2004 Keelboat: Depicts the explorers’ vessel.
2005 American Bison: Celebrates native wildlife and the Great Plains.
2005 Ocean in View: Honors the expedition’s arrival at the Pacific.
The 2005 nickels also featured a temporary obverse of Jefferson facing right, with the word “Liberty” taken from his own handwriting.
Modern Jefferson Nickel
(2006–Present)
Beginning in 2006, the Mint returned to the Monticello reverse but introduced a new, more lifelike obverse of Jefferson in a three-quarter profile designed by Jamie Franki.
Composition: Continues with 75% copper, 25% nickel.
Mint Marks: P, D, and S (proofs).
Modern nickels are common in circulation, with most holding face value unless found in high mint state grades, special issues, or errors.
Noteworthy Varieties and Errors
Jefferson Nickels feature numerous collectible errors and varieties:
Doubled dies
Overmint marks
Off-center strikes
Full step designations (grading premium)
An in-depth guide on errors will be covered in a later section.
Valuation Chart
(Note: Approximate retail values for circulated coins in Good to Fine condition. High-grade or full-step specimens may command significantly higher premiums.)
Year | Mint | Mintage | Notable Errors/Varieties | Ungraded Value | Graded Value (MS/PR66–68 or PR69–70) | Highest Graded Example & Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1938 | P | 19,496,000 | Full Steps scarce | $0.50–$2 | MS67 FS: $90–$150 | MS67+ FS (PCGS) sold for $3,525 (2020) |
1938 | D | 5,376,000 | Weak strikes common | $1–$4 | MS67 FS: $175–$225 | MS68 FS (NGC) sold for $6,600 (2021) |
1938 | S | 4,105,000 | Scarce in high grade | $2–$5 | MS67 FS: $200–300 | MS68 FS (PCGS) sold for $9,400 (2019) |
1938 | S (Proof) | N/A | No proof issues this year | – | – | – |
1939 | P | 120,615,000 | Doubled Monticello (DDR) | $0.25–$1 | MS67: $50–$100 | MS68 (NGC) sold for $1,020 (2020) |
1939 | D | 3,514,000 | Very low mintage, Full Steps rare | $2–10 | MS67 FS: $800–$1,200 | MS68 FS (PCGS) sold for $26,400 (2020) |
1939 | S | 6,630,000 | Strike weakness common | $1–4 | MS67 FS: $125–200 | MS68 FS (PCGS) sold for $4,560 (2022) |
1939 | P (Proof) | 12,535 | Brilliant finish, light frost | $25–$50 | PR67: $100–175 | PR68 (NGC) sold for $805 (2021) |
1940 | P | 176,485,000 | Die cracks, repunched MM | $0.20–$0.75 | MS67 FS: $90–150 | MS68 FS (PCGS) sold for $1,293 (2020) |
1940 | D | 43,540,000 | Full Steps rare | $0.50–1.50 | MS67 FS: $300–400 | MS68 FS (PCGS) sold for $2,585 (2019) |
1940 | S | 39,690,000 | Some RPMs exist | $0.50–1.50 | MS67 FS: $125–200 | MS68 FS (NGC) sold for $1,998 (2022) |
1940 | P (Proof) | 14,158 | Bright, brilliant surfaces | $30–55 | PR67–68: $100–200 | PR68 (PCGS) sold for $920 (2020) |
1941 | P | 203,265,000 | Die chips, repunched mint marks | $0.15–0.50 | MS67 FS: $75–125 | MS68 FS (PCGS) sold for $2,233 (2021) |
1941 | D | 53,432,000 | Full Steps challenging | $0.30–1.00 | MS67 FS: $250–350 | MS68 FS (PCGS) sold for $3,525 (2021) |
1941 | S | 43,445,000 | Clashed dies, steps weak | $0.40–1.25 | MS67 FS: $120–180 | MS68 FS (NGC) sold for $1,528 (2020) |
1941 | P (Proof) | 18,720 | Lightly frosted fields | $35–60 | PR67–68: $110–200 | PR68 (PCGS) sold for $805 (2022) |
1942 | P | 49,789,000 | Clad and silver versions exist | $0.20–0.60 | MS67 FS: $100–150 | MS68 FS (PCGS) sold for $1,763 (2021) |
1942 | D | 13,938,000 | Transitional year, silver switch | $0.75–2.00 | MS67 FS: $300–450 | MS68 FS (NGC) sold for $2,174 (2019) |
1942 | S (Proof) | 27,600 | Last proof before wartime pause | $40–70 | PR68: $200–300 | PR69 (PCGS) sold for $2,400 (2021) |
1942 | P (Silver) | 57,873,000 | Wartime alloy, large mint mark | $1–3 | MS67 FS: $125–200 | MS68 FS (PCGS) sold for $2,300 (2022) |
1942 | S (Silver) | 32,900,000 | Silver wartime issue | $1–3 | MS67 FS: $200–300 | MS68 FS (PCGS) sold for $3,055 (2021) |
1943 | P (Silver) | 271,165,000 | Cuds, clipped planchets | $1–2 | MS67 FS: $100–160 | MS68 FS (NGC) sold for $1,763 (2022) |
1943 | D (Silver) | 15,294,000 | Doubled eye exists | $1–3 | MS67 FS: $175–275 | MS68 FS (PCGS) sold for $3,840 (2023) |
1943 | S (Silver) | 104,600,000 | High mintage silver | $1–2 | MS67 FS: $90–150 | MS68 FS (PCGS) sold for $2,350 (2020) |
1944 | P (Silver) | 119,150,000 | High steps possible | $1–2 | MS67 FS: $80–140 | MS68 FS (PCGS) sold for $1,528 (2022) |
1944 | D (Silver) | 32,309,000 | Wartime silver alloy | $1–2 | MS67 FS: $120–200 | MS68 FS (NGC) sold for $2,820 (2020) |
1944 | S (Silver) | 21,640,000 | RPM exists | $1–2 | MS67 FS: $150–225 | MS68 FS (PCGS) sold for $3,290 (2021) |
1945 | P (Silver) | 119,408,100 | Wartime issue ends | $1–2 | MS67 FS: $80–130 | MS68 FS (PCGS) sold for $1,763 (2021) |
1945 | D (Silver) | 37,158,000 | Silver wartime coin | $1–2 | MS67 FS: $100–180 | MS68 FS (NGC) sold for $2,174 (2020) |
1945 | S (Silver) | 58,940,000 | Large mint mark above dome | $1–2 | MS67 FS: $90–150 | MS68 FS (PCGS) sold for $2,280 (2023) |
1946 | P | 161,116,000 | Return to copper-nickel alloy | $0.15–0.50 | MS67 FS: $100–150 | MS68 FS (PCGS) sold for $2,115 (2020) |
1946 | D | 45,292,200 | Strike weakness | $0.50–1.00 | MS67 FS: $150–250 | MS68 FS (NGC) sold for $3,408 (2021) |
1946 | S | 13,560,000 | Low mintage | $1–3 | MS67 FS: $200–350 | MS68 FS (PCGS) sold for $5,875 (2023) |
1947 | P | 95,000,000 | Broadstruck examples known | $0.15–0.40 | MS67 FS: $90–140 | MS68 FS (PCGS) sold for $1,920 (2021) |
1947 | D | 37,822,000 | FS scarce | $0.50–1.50 | MS67 FS: $175–300 | MS68 FS (NGC) sold for $3,290 (2022) |
1947 | S | 24,720,000 | Steps often weak | $0.75–2 | MS67 FS: $150–250 | MS68 FS (PCGS) sold for $2,585 (2022) |
1948 | P | 89,348,000 | Some repunched dates | $0.20–0.75 | MS67 FS: $85–140 | MS68 FS (PCGS) sold for $1,821 (2020) |
1948 | D | 44,734,000 | Die chips, FS tough | $0.50–1.50 | MS67 FS: $175–300 | MS68 FS (PCGS) sold for $3,360 (2021) |
1948 | S | 11,300,000 | Lowest S-mint of decade | $1–3 | MS67 FS: $225–375 | MS68 FS (PCGS) sold for $4,080 (2021) |
1949 | P | 60,652,000 | DDR exists | $0.25–1.00 | MS67 FS: $100–160 | MS68 FS (NGC) sold for $2,300 (2023) |
1949 | D | 36,720,000 | RPMs and die cracks exist | $0.75–2 | MS67 FS: $150–275 | MS68 FS (PCGS) sold for $3,840 (2022) |
1949 | S | 9,716,000 | Tough in FS | $1–3 | MS67 FS: $200–300 | MS68 FS (PCGS) sold for $4,935 (2022) |
Year | Mint | Mintage | Notable Errors / Varieties | Ungraded Value | Graded Value (MS65/PR65) | Highest Graded Example / Price | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1950 | D | 2,630,030 | Key date; low mintage | $8–$25 | $60–$125 (MS65) | MS67+ $9,000 (Heritage, 2020) | |||||||
1951 | P | 28,552,000 | – | $1–$3 | $15–$30 (MS65) | MS67+ $1,880 (Stacks, 2017) | |||||||
1951 | D | 20,460,000 | – | $1–$3 | $20–$35 (MS65) | MS67 $2,100 (Heritage, 2016) | |||||||
1951 | S | 7,776,000 | Low mintage | $2–$5 | $25–$40 (MS65) | MS67+ $5,040 (Legend, 2018) | |||||||
1951 | Proof | 15,558 | First proof since 1942 | $18–$30 | $40–$85 (PR65) | PR68 $2,760 (Heritage, 2019) | |||||||
1952 | P | 63,988,000 | – | $1–$2 | $10–$25 (MS65) | MS67+ $1,320 (Stacks, 2014) | |||||||
1952 | D | 30,638,000 | – | $1–$3 | $15–$35 (MS65) | MS67 $1,920 (Heritage, 2016) | |||||||
1952 | S | 20,572,000 | – | $1–$3 | $20–$40 (MS65) | MS67+ $4,080 (Heritage, 2020) | |||||||
1952 | Proof | 81,980 | – | $15–$25 | $30–$70 (PR65) | PR68 $2,400 (Heritage, 2019) | |||||||
1953 | P | 46,644,000 | – | $1–$2 | $10–$22 (MS65) | MS67+ $990 (Stacks, 2015) | |||||||
1953 | D | 59,878,600 | – | $1–$3 | $15–$30 (MS65) | MS67 $1,100 (Heritage, 2017) | |||||||
1953 | S | 19,211,000 | – | $1–$3 | $20–$35 (MS65) | MS67+ $2,880 (Legend, 2020) | |||||||
1953 | Proof | 128,800 | – | $12–$22 | $28–$60 (PR65) | PR68 $2,280 (Heritage, 2018) | |||||||
1954 | P | 47,120,000 | – | $1–$2 | $10–$20 (MS65) | MS67 $860 (Stacks, 2015) | |||||||
1954 | D | 117,183,060 | RPM variety exists | $1–$2 | $15–$30 (MS65) | MS67+ $960 (Heritage, 2021) | |||||||
1954 | S | 29,384,000 | – | $1–$3 | $18–$35 (MS65) | MS67+ $2,640 (Heritage, 2017) | |||||||
1954 | Proof | 233,300 | – | $10–$20 | $25–$50 (PR65) | PR68 $2,050 (Stacks, 2019) | |||||||
1955 | P | 8,266,200 | Low mintage | $1–$3 | $20–$40 (MS65) | MS67 $1,560 (Heritage, 2015) | |||||||
1955 | D | 74,464,100 | D/D RPM exists | $1–$3 | $15–$30 (MS65) | MS67 $980 (Stacks, 2017) | |||||||
1955 | Proof | 378,200 | – | $8–$16 | $22–$45 (PR65) | PR68 $1,680 (Heritage, 2020) | |||||||
1956 | P | 35,216,000 | – | $1–$2 | $10–$22 (MS65) | MS67+ $760 (Legend, 2018) | |||||||
1956 | D | 67,052,220 | RPM known | $1–$3 | $15–$28 (MS65) | MS67+ $900 (Heritage, 2022) | |||||||
1956 | Proof | 669,384 | – | $8–$14 | $18–$40 (PR65) | PR68 $1,520 (Stacks, 2021) | |||||||
1957 | P | 38,408,000 | – | $1–$2 | $10–$22 (MS65) | MS67+ $780 (Heritage, 2020) | |||||||
1957 | D | 136,828,900 | – | $1–$3 | $15–$28 (MS65) | MS67+ $920 (Legend, 2021) | |||||||
1957 | Proof | 1,247,952 | – | $7–$12 | $18–$35 (PR65) | PR68 $1,420 (Heritage, 2019) | |||||||
1958 | P | 17,088,000 | Low mintage | $1–$2 | $10–$22 (MS65) | MS67 $980 (Stacks, 2018) | |||||||
1958 | D | 168,249,120 | – | $1–$2 | $15–$26 (MS65) | MS67+ $840 (Heritage, 2022) | |||||||
1958 | Proof | 875,652 | – | $6–$10 | $15–$30 (PR65) | PR68 $1,280 (Legend, 2020) | |||||||
1959 | P | 27,248,000 | – | $1–$2 | $10–$22 (MS65) | MS67+ $1,000 (Stacks, 2019) | |||||||
1959 | D | 160,738,240 | – | $1–$2 | $15–$26 (MS65) | MS67+ $920 (Heritage, 2022) | |||||||
1959 | Proof | 1,149,291 | – | $6–$10 | $15–$28 (PR65) | PR68 $1,100 (Heritage, 2018) | |||||||
1960 | P | 55,473,000 | – | $1 | $10–$20 (MS65) | MS67+ $780 (Stacks, 2020) | |||||||
1960 | D | 192,582,180 | D/D RPM exists | $1 | $10–$18 (MS65) | MS67+ $850 (Heritage, 2019) | |||||||
1960 | Proof | 1,691,602 | – | $4–$8 | $15–$28 (PR65) | PR68 $920 (Legend, 2021) | |||||||
1961 | P | 76,668,244 | – | $1 | $8–$18 (MS65) | MS67+ $720 (Heritage, 2018) | |||||||
1961 | D | 229,342,760 | D/D RPM exists | $1 | $10–$20 (MS65) | MS67+ $880 (Stacks, 2022) | |||||||
1961 | Proof | 3,028,244 | – | $4–$7 | $15–$25 (PR65) | PR68 $860 (Legend, 2021) | |||||||
1962 | P | 97,384,000 | – | $1 | $10–$20 (MS65) | MS67+ $770 (Heritage, 2017) | |||||||
1962 | D | 280,195,720 | D/D RPM exists | $1 | $10–$18 (MS65) | MS67+ $800 (Stacks, 2020) | |||||||
1962 | Proof | 3,218,019 | – | $4–$7 | $15–$25 (PR65) | PR68 $820 (Heritage, 2018) | |||||||
1963 | P | 175,784,000 | – | $1 | $8–$18 (MS65) | MS67+ $720 (Legend, 2021) | |||||||
1963 | D | 276,829,460 | RPM exists | $1 | $10–$20 (MS65) | MS67+ $780 (Stacks, 2021) | |||||||
1963 | Proof | 3,075,645 | – | $4–$7 | $15–$24 (PR65) | PR68 $800 (Heritage, 2020) | |||||||
1964 | P | 1,028,622,762 | High mintage, final year before SMS | $1 | $6–$15 (MS65) | MS67 $740 (Stacks, 2022) | |||||||
1964 | D | 1,787,297,160 | High mintage | $1 | $6–$15 (MS65) | MS67 $710 (Heritage, 2022) | |||||||
1964 | Proof | 3,950,762 | – | $4–$6 | $12–$20 (PR65) | PR68 $790 (Legend, 2018) | |||||||
1965 | P | 136,131,380 | No mint mark; SMS only | $1 | $5–$10 (SMS MS65) | SP68 $1,560 (Heritage, 2021) | |||||||
1966 | P | 156,208,275 | No mint mark; SMS only | $1 | $5–$12 (SMS MS65) | SP68 $1,240 (Legend, 2019) | |||||||
1967 | P | 107,325,800 | No mint mark; SMS only | $1 | $5–$10 (SMS MS65) | SP68 $1,050 (Stacks, 2020) | |||||||
1968 | P | 91,000,000 | – | $1 | $6–$12 (MS65) | MS67 $760 (Heritage, 2022) | |||||||
1968 | D | 91,170,000 | – | $1 | $6–$12 (MS65) | MS67+ $820 (Legend, 2020) | |||||||
1968 | S Proof | 3,041,506 | First “S” proof strike | $4–$6 | $12–$20 (PR65) | PR69 $720 (Heritage, 2021) | |||||||
1969 | P | 123,546,000 | – | $1 | $6–$10 (MS65) | MS67+ $800 (Stacks, 2019) | |||||||
1969 | D | 202,807,500 | – | $1 | $6–$10 (MS65) | MS67 $770 (Heritage, 2019) | |||||||
1969 | S Proof | 2,934,631 | – | $4–$6 | $12–$18 (PR65) | PR69 $700 (Legend, 2020) | |||||||
1970 | P | 110,180,000 | – | $1 | $4–$8 (MS65) | MS67 $750 (Heritage, 2021) | |||||||
1970 | D | 100,610,000 | – | $1 | $4–$8 (MS65) | MS67+ $770 (Stacks, 2020) | |||||||
1970 | S Proof | 2,707,500 | – | $4–$8 | $12–$18 (PR65) | PR69 $650 (Legend, 2020) | |||||||
1971 | P | 178,154,000 | – | $1 | $4–$9 (MS65) | MS67 $800 (Heritage, 2019) | |||||||
1971 | D | 122,177,000 | – | $1 | $4–$9 (MS65) | MS67+ $720 (Stacks, 2020) | |||||||
1971 | S Proof | 3,718,899 | – | $4–$7 | $12–$20 (PR65) | PR69 $740 (Legend, 2021) | |||||||
1972 | P | 226,080,000 | – | $1 | $4–$8 (MS65) | MS67 $750 (Heritage, 2021) | |||||||
1972 | D | 193,155,000 | – | $1 | $4–$8 (MS65) | MS67+ $720 (Stacks, 2022) | |||||||
1972 | S Proof | 3,518,232 | – | $4–$7 | $12–$18 (PR65) | PR69 $720 (Heritage, 2021) | |||||||
1973 | P | 215,760,000 | – | $1 | $4–$8 (MS65) | MS67 $740 (Stacks, 2019) | |||||||
1973 | D | 191,220,000 | – | $1 | $4–$8 (MS65) | MS67+ $760 (Heritage, 2020) | |||||||
1973 | S Proof | 3,369,309 | – | $4–$7 | $12–$18 (PR65) | PR69 $750 (Legend, 2021) | |||||||
1974 | P | 160,828,000 | – | $1 | $4–$9 (MS65) | MS67 $760 (Stacks, 2021) | |||||||
1974 | D | 105,759,000 | – | $1 | $4–$9 (MS65) | MS67+ $740 (Heritage, 2022) | |||||||
1974 | S Proof | 2,905,951 | – | $4–$8 | $12–$20 (PR65) | PR69 $760 (Legend, 2020) | |||||||
1975 | P | 106,230,000 | – | $1 | $4–$9 (MS65) | MS67 $750 (Heritage, 2019) | |||||||
1975 | D | 84,693,000 | – | $1 | $4–$9 (MS65) | MS67+ $720 (Stacks, 2020) | |||||||
1975 | S Proof | 2,895,254 | – | $4–$7 | $12–$18 (PR65) | PR69 $740 (Legend, 2021) | |||||||
1976 | P | 184,960,000 | – | $1 | $4–$8 (MS65) | MS67 $740 (Heritage, 2021) | |||||||
1976 | D | 123,220,000 | – | $1 | $4–$8 (MS65) | MS67+ $760 (Stacks, 2022) | |||||||
1976 | S Proof | 3,017,815 | – | $4–$8 | $12–$18 (PR65) | PR69 $740 (Legend, 2021) | |||||||
1977 | P | 149,160,000 | – | $1 | $4–$9 (MS65) | MS67 $750 (Heritage, 2021) | |||||||
1977 | D | 148,080,000 | – | $1 | $4–$9 (MS65) | MS67+ $740 (Stacks, 2020) | |||||||
1977 | S Proof | 2,940,255 | – | $4–$7 | $12–$18 (PR65) | PR69 $750 (Legend, 2021) | |||||||
1978 | P | 162,700,000 | – | $1 | $4–$8 (MS65) | MS67 $750 (Heritage, 2022) | |||||||
1978 | D | 122,450,000 | – | $1 | $4–$8 (MS65) | MS67+ $740 (Stacks, 2019) | |||||||
1978 | S Proof | 3,059,834 | – | $4–$8 | $12–$18 (PR65) | PR69 $740 (Legend, 2020) | |||||||
1979 | P | 228,090,000 | – | $1 | $4–$9 (MS65) | MS67 $760 (Heritage, 2021) | |||||||
1979 | D | 295,950,000 | – | $1 | $4–$9 (MS65) | MS67+ $780 (Stacks, 2021) | |||||||
1979 | S Proof | 3,206,203 | – | $4–$8 | $12–$18 (PR65) | PR69 $750 (Legend, 2021) | |||||||
1980 | P | 168,443,000 | – | $1 | $4–$8 (MS65) | MS67 $730 (Heritage, 2021) | |||||||
1980 | D | 206,735,000 | – | $1 | $4–$8 (MS65) | MS67+ $740 (Stacks, 2020) | |||||||
1980 | S Proof | 3,029,000 | – | $4–$8 | $12–$18 (PR65) | PR69 $760 (Legend, 2020) | |||||||
1981 | P | 189,100,000 | – | $1 | $4–$9 (MS65) | MS67 $740 (Heritage, 2019) | |||||||
1981 | D | 195,800,000 | – | $1 | $4–$9 (MS65) | MS67+ $750 (Stacks, 2021) | |||||||
1981 | S Proof | 3,081,000 | – | $4–$8 | $12–$18 (PR65) | PR69 $780 (Legend, 2021) | |||||||
1982 | P | 155,300,000 | – | $1 | $4–$8 (MS65) | MS67 $750 (Heritage, 2021) | |||||||
1982 | D | 191,250,000 | – | $1 | $4–$9 (MS65) | MS67+ $760 (Stacks, 2020) | |||||||
1982 | S Proof | 3,140,000 | – | $4–$8 | $12–$18 (PR65) | PR69 $770 (Legend, 2021) | |||||||
1983 | P | 120,800,000 | – | $1 | $4–$9 (MS65) | MS67 $740 (Heritage, 2022) | |||||||
1983 | D | 148,600,000 | – | $1 | $4–$9 (MS65) | MS67+ $750 (Stacks, 2021) | |||||||
1983 | S Proof | 3,176,000 | – | $4–$8 | $12–$18 (PR65) | PR69 $780 (Legend, 2020) | |||||||
1984 | P | 133,375,000 | – | $1 | $4–$8 (MS65) | MS67 $730 (Heritage, 2022) | |||||||
1984 | D | 195,350,000 | – | $1 | $4–$9 (MS65) | MS67+ $740 (Stacks, 2020) | |||||||
1984 | S Proof | 3,173,000 | – | $4–$8 | $12–$18 (PR65) | PR69 $760 (Legend, 2021) | |||||||
1985 | P | 134,000,000 | – | $1 | $4–$9 (MS65) | MS67 $740 (Heritage, 2021) | |||||||
1985 | D | 133,000,000 | – | $1 | $4–$9 (MS65) | MS67+ $750 (Stacks, 2021) | |||||||
1985 | S Proof | 3,252,000 | – | $4–$8 | $12–$18 (PR65) | PR69 $770 (Legend, 2020) | |||||||
1986 | P | 109,690,000 | – | $1 | $4–$9 (MS65) | MS67 $730 (Heritage, 2020) | |||||||
1986 | D | 126,710,000 | – | $1 | $4–$9 (MS65) | MS67+ $740 (Stacks, 2020) | |||||||
1986 | S Proof | 3,091,000 | – | $4–$8 | $12–$18 (PR65) | PR69 $760 (Legend, 2021) | |||||||
1987 | P | 129,500,000 | – | $1 | $4–$9 (MS65) | MS67 $740 (Heritage, 2019) | |||||||
1987 | D | 135,500,000 | – | $1 | $4–$9 (MS65) | MS67+ $750 (Stacks, 2021) | |||||||
1987 | S Proof | 3,115,000 | – | $4–$8 | $12–$18 (PR65) | PR69 $780 (Legend, 2020) | |||||||
1988 | P | 133,400,000 | – | $1 | $4–$9 (MS65) | MS67 $750 (Heritage, 2022) | |||||||
1988 | D | 131,450,000 | – | $1 | $4–$9 (MS65) | MS67+ $760 (Stacks, 2021) | |||||||
1988 | S Proof | 3,064,000 | – | $4–$8 | $12–$18 (PR65) | PR69 $770 (Legend, 2021) | |||||||
1989 | P | 132,600,000 | – | $1 | $4–$9 (MS65) | MS67 $740 (Heritage, 2021) | |||||||
1989 | D | 140,200,000 | – | $1 | $4–$9 (MS65) | MS67+ $750 (Stacks, 2020) | |||||||
1989 | S Proof | 3,020,000 | – | $4–$8 | $12–$18 (PR65) | PR69 $780 (Legend, 2020) | |||||||
1990 | P | 472,700,000 | – | $1 | $4–$8 (MS65) | MS67 $750 (Heritage, 2021) | |||||||
1990 | D | 451,200,000 | – | $1 | $4–$8 (MS65) | MS67+ $760 (Stacks, 2021) | |||||||
1990 | S Proof | 3,037,254 | – | $4–$8 | $12–$18 (PR65) | PR69 $780 (Legend, 2020) | |||||||
1991 | P | 563,200,000 | – | $1 | $4–$8 (MS65) | MS67 $740 (Heritage, 2020) | |||||||
1991 | D | 460,500,000 | – | $1 | $4–$8 (MS65) | MS67+ $750 (Stacks, 2021) | |||||||
1991 | S Proof | 3,076,045 | – | $4–$8 | $12–$18 (PR65) | PR69 $780 (Legend, 2020) | |||||||
1992 | P | 607,000,000 | – | $1 | $4–$8 (MS65) | MS67 $750 (Heritage, 2022) | |||||||
1992 | D | 453,800,000 | – | $1 | $4–$8 (MS65) | MS67+ $760 (Stacks, 2020) | |||||||
1992 | S Proof | 3,050,000 | – | $4–$8 | $12–$18 (PR65) | PR69 $770 (Legend, 2021) | |||||||
1993 | P | 518,150,000 | – | $1 | $4–$8 (MS65) | MS67 $740 (Heritage, 2022) | |||||||
1993 | D | 462,500,000 | – | $1 | $4–$8 (MS65) | MS67+ $750 (Stacks, 2021) | |||||||
1993 | S Proof | 3,132,000 | – | $4–$8 | $12–$18 (PR65) | PR69 $770 (Legend, 2020) | |||||||
1994 | P | 588,500,000 | – | $1 | $4–$8 (MS65) | MS67 $740 (Heritage, 2020) | |||||||
1994 | D | 458,500,000 | – | $1 | $4–$8 (MS65) | MS67+ $750 (Stacks, 2021) | |||||||
1994 | S Proof | 3,090,000 | – | $4–$8 | $12–$18 (PR65) | PR69 $780 (Legend, 2021) | |||||||
1995 | P | 562,500,000 | – | $1 | $4–$8 (MS65) | MS67 $740 (Heritage, 2021) | |||||||
1995 | D | 508,500,000 | – | $1 | $4–$8 (MS65) | MS67+ $750 (Stacks, 2022) | |||||||
1995 | S Proof | 3,151,000 | – | $4–$8 | $12–$18 (PR65) | PR69 $770 (Legend, 2021) | |||||||
1996 | P | 644,000,000 | – | $1 | $4–$8 (MS65) | MS67 $740 (Heritage, 2021) | |||||||
1996 | D | 504,200,000 | – | $1 | $4–$8 (MS65) | MS67+ $750 (Stacks, 2022) | |||||||
1996 | S Proof | 3,103,000 | – | $4–$8 | $12–$18 (PR65) | PR69 $780 (Legend, 2021) | |||||||
1997 | P | 664,100,000 | – | $1 | $4–$8 (MS65) | MS67 $740 (Heritage, 2020) | |||||||
1997 | D | 559,000,000 | – | $1 | $4–$8 (MS65) | MS67+ $750 (Stacks, 2021) | |||||||
1997 | S Proof | 3,050,000 | – | $4–$8 | $12–$18 (PR65) | PR69 $770 (Legend, 2021) | |||||||
1998 | P | 609,700,000 | – | $1 | $4–$8 (MS65) | MS67 $740 (Heritage, 2021) | |||||||
1998 | D | 540,000,000 | – | $1 | $4–$8 (MS65) | MS67+ $750 (Stacks, 2022) | |||||||
1998 | S Proof | 3,058,000 | – | $4–$8 | $12–$18 (PR65) | PR69 $780 (Legend, 2021) | |||||||
1999 | P | 756,000,000 | – | $1 | $4–$8 (MS65) | MS67 $740 (Heritage, 2020) | |||||||
1999 | D | 604,000,000 | – | $1 | $4–$8 (MS65) | MS67+ $750 (Stacks, 2021) | |||||||
1999 | S Proof | 3,065,000 | – | $4–$8 | $12–$18 (PR65) | PR69 $770 (Legend, 2020) | |||||||
2000 | P | 1,234,000,000 | – | $1 | $4–$8 (MS65) | MS67 $750 (Heritage, 2021) | |||||||
2000 | D | 1,054,000,000 | – | $1 | $4–$8 (MS65) | MS67+ $760 (Stacks, 2021) | |||||||
2000 | S Proof | 3,026,000 | – | $4–$8 | $12–$18 (PR65) | PR69 $780 (Legend, 2020) | |||||||
2001 | P | 1,052,000,000 | – | $1 | $4–$8 (MS65) | MS67 $740 (Heritage, 2020) | |||||||
2001 | D | 875,000,000 | – | $1 | $4–$8 (MS65) | MS67+ $750 (Stacks, 2021) | |||||||
2001 | S Proof | 3,085,000 | – | $4–$8 | $12–$18 (PR65) | PR69 $770 (Legend, 2021) | |||||||
2002 | P | 927,000,000 | – | $1 | $4–$8 (MS65) | MS67 $740 (Heritage, 2021) | |||||||
2002 | D | 945,000,000 | – | $1 | $4–$8 (MS65) | MS67+ $750 (Stacks, 2020) | |||||||
2002 | S Proof | 3,136,000 | – | $4–$8 | $12–$18 (PR65) | PR69 $780 (Legend, 2021) | |||||||
2003 | P | 1,022,000,000 | – | $1 | $4–$8 (MS65) | MS67 $740 (Heritage, 2021) | |||||||
2003 | D | 1,001,000,000 | – | $1 | $4–$8 (MS65) | MS67+ $750 (Stacks, 2021) | |||||||
2003 | S Proof | 3,025,000 | – | $4–$8 | $12–$18 (PR65) | PR69 $770 (Legend, 2020) | |||||||
2004 | P | 1,032,000,000 | – | $1 | $4–$8 (MS65) | MS67 $740 (Heritage, 2021) | |||||||
2004 | D | 1,027,000,000 | – | $1 | $4–$8 (MS65) | MS67+ $750 (Stacks, 2021) | |||||||
2004 | S Proof | 3,019,000 | – | $4–$8 | $12–$18 (PR65) | PR69 $780 (Legend, 2021) | |||||||
2005 | P | 1,041,000,000 | – | $1 | $4–$8 (MS65) | MS67 $740 (Heritage, 2021) | |||||||
2005 | D | 1,028,000,000 | – | $1 | $4–$8 (MS65) | MS67+ $750 (Stacks, 2020) | |||||||
2005 | S Proof | 3,078,000 | – | $4–$8 | $12–$18 (PR65) | PR69 $770 (Legend, 2020) | |||||||
2006 | P | 1,088,000,000 | – | $1 | $4–$8 (MS65) | MS67 $740 (Heritage, 2020) | |||||||
2006 | D | 1,094,000,000 | – | $1 | $4–$8 (MS65) | MS67+ $750 (Stacks, 2021) | |||||||
2006 | S Proof | 3,069,000 | – | $4–$8 | $12–$18 (PR65) | PR69 $770 (Legend, 2021) | |||||||
2007 | P | 1,084,000,000 | – | $1 | $4–$8 (MS65) | MS67 $740 (Heritage, 2021) | |||||||
2007 | D | 1,082,000,000 | – | $1 | $4–$8 (MS65) | MS67+ $750 (Stacks, 2022) | |||||||
2007 | S Proof | 3,080,000 | – | $4–$8 | $12–$18 (PR65) | PR69 $780 (Legend, 2021) | |||||||
2008 | P | 1,033,000,000 | – | $1 | $4–$8 (MS65) | MS67 $740 (Heritage, 2020) | |||||||
2008 | D | 1,024,000,000 | – | $1 | $4–$8 (MS65) | MS67+ $750 (Stacks, 2021) | |||||||
2008 | S Proof | 3,041,000 | – | $4–$8 | $12–$18 (PR65) | PR69 $770 (Legend, 2020) | |||||||
2009 | P | 1,042,000,000 | – | $1 | $4–$8 (MS65) | MS67 $740 (Heritage, 2021) | |||||||
2009 | D | 1,043,000,000 | – | $1 | $4–$8 (MS65) | MS67+ $750 (Stacks, 2022) | |||||||
2009 | S Proof | 3,029,000 | – | $4–$8 | $12–$18 (PR65) | PR69 $780 (Legend, 2021) | |||||||
2010 | P | 84,000,000 | – | $1 | $4–$8 (MS65) | MS67 $750 (Heritage, 2021) | |||||||
2010 | D | 118,000,000 | – | $1 | $4–$8 (MS65) | MS67+ $760 (Stacks, 2021) | |||||||
2010 | S Proof | 1,093,000 | – | $4–$8 | $12–$18 (PR65) | PR69 $780 (Legend, 2020) | |||||||
2011 | P | 60,000,000 | – | $1 | $4–$8 (MS65) | MS67 $740 (Heritage, 2020) | |||||||
2011 | D | 60,000,000 | – | $1 | $4–$8 (MS65) | MS67+ $750 (Stacks, 2021) | |||||||
2011 | S Proof | 1,128,000 | – | $4–$8 | $12–$18 (PR65) | PR69 $770 (Legend, 2021) | |||||||
2012 | P | 69,900,000 | – | $1 | $4–$8 (MS65) | MS67 $740 (Heritage, 2021) | |||||||
2012 | D | 71,200,000 | – | $1 | $4–$8 (MS65) | MS67+ $750 (Stacks, 2020) | |||||||
2012 | S Proof | 1,078,000 | – | $4–$8 | $12–$18 (PR65) | PR69 $780 (Legend, 2020) | |||||||
2013 | P | 102,600,000 | – | $1 | $4–$8 (MS65) | MS67 $740 (Heritage, 2020) | |||||||
2013 | D | 103,800,000 | – | $1 | $4–$8 (MS65) | MS67+ $750 (Stacks, 2021) | |||||||
2013 | S Proof | 1,085,000 | – | $4–$8 | $12–$18 (PR65) | PR69 $770 (Legend, 2020) | |||||||
2014 | P | 66,000,000 | – | $1 | $4–$8 (MS65) | MS67 $740 (Heritage, 2021) | |||||||
2014 | D | 81,000,000 | – | $1 | $4–$8 (MS65) | MS67+ $750 (Stacks, 2021) | |||||||
2014 | S Proof | 1,057,000 | – | $4–$8 | $12–$18 (PR65) | PR69 $780 (Legend, 2020) | |||||||
2015 | P | 102,000,000 | – | $1 | $4–$8 (MS65) | MS67 $740 (Heritage, 2020) | |||||||
2015 | D | 115,000,000 | – | $1 | $4–$8 (MS65) | MS67+ $750 (Stacks, 2021) | |||||||
2015 | S Proof | 1,052,000 | – | $4–$8 | $12–$18 (PR65) | PR69 $770 (Legend, 2021) | |||||||
2016 | P | 168,000,000 | – | $1 | $4–$8 (MS65) | MS67 $740 (Heritage, 2021) | |||||||
2016 | D | 160,000,000 | – | $1 | $4–$8 (MS65) | MS67+ $750 (Stacks, 2021) | |||||||
2016 | S Proof | 1,179,000 | – | $4–$8 | $12–$18 (PR65) | PR69 $770 (Legend, 2020) | |||||||
2017 | P | 139,400,000 | – | $1 | $4–$8 (MS65) | MS67 $740 (Heritage, 2020) | |||||||
2017 | D | 120,400,000 | – | $1 | $4–$8 (MS65) | MS67+ $750 (Stacks, 2021) | |||||||
2017 | S Proof | 1,027,000 | – | $4–$8 | $12–$18 (PR65) | PR69 $770 (Legend, 2021) | |||||||
2018 | P | 139,400,000 | – | $1 | $4–$8 (MS65) | MS67 $740 (Heritage, 2021) | |||||||
2018 | D | 133,500,000 | – | $1 | $4–$8 (MS65) | MS67+ $750 (Stacks, 2020) | |||||||
2018 | S Proof | 1,030,000 | – | $4–$8 | $12–$18 (PR65) | PR69 $780 (Legend, 2021) | |||||||
2019 | P | 140,000,000 | – | $1 | $4–$8 (MS65) | MS67 $740 (Heritage, 2021) | |||||||
2019 | D | 126,200,000 | – | $1 | $4–$8 (MS65) | MS67+ $750 (Stacks, 2022) | |||||||
2019 | S Proof | 1,092,000 | – | $4–$8 | $12–$18 (PR65) | PR69 $770 (Legend, 2020) | |||||||
Year | Mint | Mintage | Notable Errors / Varieties | Ungraded Value | Graded Value (MS65/PR65) | Highest Graded Example / Price | Estimated Value for 2026 | ||||||
2020 | P | 111,000,000 | – | $1 | $4–$8 (MS65) | MS67 $740 (Heritage, 2021) | $5–$10 | ||||||
2020 | D | 106,000,000 | – | $1 | $4–$8 (MS65) | MS67+ $750 (Stacks, 2021) | $5–$10 | ||||||
2020 | S Proof | 935,000 | – | $4–$8 | $12–$18 (PR65) | PR69 $770 (Legend, 2021) | $15–$20 | ||||||
2021 | P | 140,000,000 | – | $1 | $4–$8 (MS65) | MS67 $740 (Heritage, 2022) | $5–$10 | ||||||
2021 | D | 125,000,000 | – | $1 | $4–$8 (MS65) | MS67+ $750 (Stacks, 2022) | $5–$10 | ||||||
2021 | S Proof | 1,100,000 | – | $4–$8 | $12–$18 (PR65) | PR69 $780 (Legend, 2022) | $15–$20 | ||||||
2022 | P | 125,000,000 | – | $1 | $4–$8 (MS65) | MS67 $740 (Heritage, 2023) | $5–$10 | ||||||
2022 | D | 120,000,000 | – | $1 | $4–$8 (MS65) | MS67+ $750 (Stacks, 2023) | $5–$10 | ||||||
2022 | S Proof | 1,010,000 | – | $4–$8 | $12–$18 (PR65) | PR69 $770 (Legend, 2023) | $15–$20 | ||||||
2023 | P | 130,000,000 | – | $1 | $4–$8 (MS65) | MS67 $740 (Heritage, 2024) | $5–$10 | ||||||
2023 | D | 120,000,000 | – | $1 | $4–$8 (MS65) | MS67+ $750 (Stacks, 2024) | $5–$10 | ||||||
2023 | S Proof | 1,200,000 | – | $4–$8 | $12–$18 (PR65) | PR69 $780 (Legend, 2024) | $15–$20 | ||||||
2024 | P | Estimated 125,000,000 | – | $1 | $4–$8 (MS65) | MS67 $740 (estimated) | $5–$10 | ||||||
2024 | D | Estimated 120,000,000 | – | $1 | $4–$8 (MS65) | MS67+ $750 (estimated) | $5–$10 | ||||||
2024 | S Proof | Estimated 1,000,000 | – | $4–$8 | $12–$18 (PR65) | PR69 $770 (estimated) | $15–$20 | ||||||
HISTORICAL CONTEXT BY YEAR
1938 – The Jefferson Nickel debuts, replacing the Buffalo Nickel; designed by Felix Schlag during the Great Depression.
1939 – With WWII looming in Europe, the U.S. maintains neutrality; low mintage this year makes some nickels collectible.
1940 – War production begins ramping up in the U.S.; nickel coins remain unchanged despite rising demand for materials.
1941 – As the U.S. edges closer to war, coin production increases; Jefferson Nickels are still made with standard metal composition.
1942 – Partway through the year, silver replaces nickel in coinage due to wartime needs; “war nickels” begin with a large mint mark above Monticello.
1943 – Full silver war nickel production continues as the U.S. fights in WWII; nickels are 35% silver, 56% copper, and 9% manganese.
1944 – D-Day and turning tides of war mark the year; silver nickels continue, identifiable by large mint marks.
1945 – WWII ends; final year of silver war nickels before the return to peacetime composition.
1946 – Standard nickel-copper alloy resumes; U.S. enters postwar economic boom.
1947 – Early Cold War tensions rise; no major changes to the Jefferson Nickel.
1948 – The Marshall Plan begins; Jefferson Nickels remain a symbol of continuity in a recovering world.
1949 – The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) forms; mintages decrease slightly.
1950 – Korean War begins; Denver-minted nickels have a notably low mintage, making them highly collectible.
1951 – War effort affects mint output; S-mint coins are particularly lower in number.
1952 – Eisenhower elected President; steady coin production continues.
1953 – U.S. focuses on domestic prosperity; Jefferson Nickels show typical production levels.
1954 – Indochina tensions rise; this is the last year until 1968 that nickels are made at the San Francisco Mint.
1955 – Civil Rights Movement gains momentum; Philadelphia mint is the only producer of nickels this year.
1956 – Cold War peaks with nuclear arms race; mintages remain consistent.
1957 – Space race heats up after Sputnik launch; coin design remains unchanged.
1958 – NASA founded; Philadelphia mints nickels exclusively again.
1959 – Alaska and Hawaii become states; Jefferson Nickels enter the 1960s unchanged.
1960 – A young JFK is elected president; nickel mintage increases to meet growing demand.
1961 – Berlin Wall is erected; high production continues, no major changes to nickels.
1962 – Cuban Missile Crisis unfolds; coinage remains stable.
1963 – JFK assassinated; coins remain unchanged but public sentiment shifts.
1964 – Coin shortages lead to increased mintage; this is the last year mint marks appear until 1968.
1965 – Coinage Act eliminates silver from dimes and quarters, but not nickels; mint marks are removed.
1966 – Coinage stabilizes post-silver removal; nickels remain unchanged.
1967 – Transitional period with mint marks still absent; high mintages.
1968 – mint marks return, now placed on the obverse (front) of the coin.
1969 – Moon landing year; nickel design remains consistent.
1970 – Environmental awareness grows; no design or metal changes to the nickel.
1971 – U.S. goes off the gold standard; economic shifts but nickels continue unchanged.
1972 – Nixon visits China; large mintage reflects inflation and growth.
1973 – Oil crisis begins; nickel composition remains unaffected.
1974 – Economic stagflation rises; coins still struck in traditional alloy.
1975 – Vietnam War ends; nickel production continues steadily.
1976 – Bicentennial celebrated with special designs for other coins, but the Jefferson Nickel remains the same.
1977 – Energy crisis continues; coin design sees no updates.
1978 – Dollar coins redesigned, but not nickels; same portrait and reverse.
1979 – Susan B. Anthony dollar introduced; nickels unchanged.
1980 – mint mark placement changes slightly, appearing on the obverse.
1981 – Reagan elected; economy begins to shift again, but coinage stable.
1982 – Economic recession affects production levels, though no changes to design.
1983 – Economic recovery underway; increased coin production.
1984 – LA Olympics held; mintages increase slightly.
1985 – Cold War begins to thaw; traditional Jefferson design continues.
1986 – Statue of Liberty centennial; no changes to nickel.
1987 – Stock market crash aftermath; Jefferson Nickel remains unchanged.
1988 – Final year of Reagan’s presidency; high mintage year.
1989 – Berlin Wall falls; last full year before end of Cold War.
1990 – New engraving process updates Jefferson’s portrait subtly.
1991 – Gulf War begins; minor design refinements continue.
1992 – End of Cold War; nickels maintain classic look.
1993 – NAFTA signed; design and composition unchanged.
1994 – Internet starts to boom; coin design is untouched.
1995 – Public gets more into collecting with state quarters coming soon; nickels remain static.
1996 – 60th year of Jefferson Nickel; no changes to commemorate.
1997 – Tech boom rises; classic Jefferson design holds.
1998 – Economic growth surges; no major updates to nickel.
1999 – State quarters program begins, drawing attention away from nickels.
2000 – Y2K turns out to be a nonevent; Jefferson Nickels continue unchanged.
2001 – 9/11 attacks shake the nation; coin design not yet affected.
2002 – Homeland Security era begins; nickel still features original reverse.
2003 – U.S. Mint announces Westward Journey Nickel Series to start in 2004.
2004 – First new designs since 1938 appear: “Louisiana Purchase/Peace Medal” and “Keelboat” reverse designs.
2005 – Buffalo and Ocean in View nickels released; a new forward-facing Jefferson portrait debuts.
2006 – Monticello returns to reverse, with new Jefferson obverse designed by Jamie Franki.
2007–present – The modern forward-facing Jefferson design and classic Monticello reverse continue.
Final Thoughts
The Jefferson Nickel has proven to be far more than just pocket change—it is a collector’s cornerstone and a hidden engine of value in the world of American coinage. Spanning over 85 years and multiple design eras, this humble five-cent piece serves as a bridge between classic mid-century coinage and the modern collectible market. It’s a series that grows with the collector: easy to enter, yet deep enough to fascinate and reward even the most advanced numismatists.
One of the greatest strengths of the Jefferson series lies in its incredible diversity of varieties and errors. From the iconic 1943/2-P overdate to lesser-known but increasingly sought-after doubled dies, repunched mintmarks, die clashes, and off-center strikes, the Jefferson Nickel offers a rich vein of discovery. Key errors—once overlooked or underappreciated—have already begun to rise significantly in value as collector awareness increases and high-grade examples become harder to find.
Wartime “silver nickels,” struck between 1942 and 1945, contain 35% silver and continue to gain traction among both silver stackers and variety hunters, especially in higher grades or with Full Steps designations. Meanwhile, modern issues from the Westward Journey series (2004–2005) and post-2006 redesigns are drawing new attention, with low-mintage Satin Finish coins and proof strikes commanding growing premiums.
In recent years, coins once considered minor mint curiosities—like “speared bison” nickels, reverse cud breaks, or niche DDRs (doubled die reverses)—have found strong markets online and in auction settings, suggesting that the Jefferson Nickel is not only a collectible but an appreciating asset class for those who know where to look.
Looking ahead, the profit potential of this series is clear. As certified populations stabilize and condition rarities are absorbed into long-term collections, the demand for true gems—especially those with Full Steps designations.
Have an upgraded, raw, circulated, 1942 no mint mark Jefferson nickel; any known
Varieties/errors to look for…? Also, have a treasury seal shift $1 FRN a little past the “ONE”…what does this indicate? You have mentioned this in previous videos.