Introduced in 1938, the Jefferson Nickel has become an important part of U.S. coinage. While most coins are common, some rare versions have fetched millions of dollars at auction.
This article highlights 5 rare Jefferson Nickels that have fetched over $50,000. Plus, there are 7 other coins that may be a surprise for collectors.
5 Rare Jefferson Nickels That Have Been Worth Over $50,000
1938-D Jefferson Nickel (MS68+ Full Steps)
- Year: 1938
- Mint Mark: D (Denver)
- Grade: MS68+ Full Steps
- Sale Price: $33,600
Description:
In the first year of the Jefferson Nickel, the Denver Mint produced a limited number of coins. This rare coin featuring an MS68+ grade and full steps sold at auction for $33,600.
1942-D Over Horizontal D (MS64 Full Steps)
- Year: 1942
- Mint Mark: D (Denver)
- Grade: MS64 Full Steps
- Selling Price: $32,200
Description:
A “D” mint mark was mistakenly printed over a horizontal “D” on this coin. Due to its rarity and Full Steps grading, this coin’s value reached $32,200.
1940 Reverse of 1938 Proof (PR68)
- Year: 1940
- Mint Mark: No (Philadelphia)
- Grade: PR68
- Selling Price: $28,750
Description:
The 1938 reverse design is seen on this proof coin, making it a transitional version. Due to its unique design and high grading, it sold for $28,750.
1953-S Jefferson Nickel (MS65 Full Steps)
- Year: 1953
- Mint Mark: S (San Francisco)
- Grade: MS65 Full Steps
- Selling Price: $24,000
Description:
The 1953-S version of the Jefferson Nickel in Full Steps grade is very rare. One coin sold for $24,000 with an MS65 grading.
1939 Doubled Monticello (MS64 Full Steps)
- Year: 1939
- Mint Mark: No (Philadelphia)
- Grade: MS64 Full Steps
- Selling Price: $21,150
Description:
This version features doubling on the Monticello inscription, which puts it in the error coin category. This rarity and the Full Steps design led to it selling for $21,150.
7 More Jefferson Nickels That Might Surprise You
| Year | Mint Mark | Variety | Grade | Estimated Value ($) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1939 | D | Key Date | MS67 | $20,000 |
| 1949 | D/S | Over Mint Mark | MS66 | $15,000 |
| 1943 | P | 3 Over 2 Error | MS65 | $14,000 |
| 1950 | D | Low Mintage | MS66 | $12,000 |
| 1942 | P | Wartime Silver Composition | PR67 | $10,000 |
| 1964 | SMS | Special Mint Set | SP68 | $9,000 |
| 1994 | P | Matte Proof | PR70 | $8,000 |
Factors Affecting the Price of Jefferson Nickels
- Rarity
- Coins with a lower mintage or a unique error are more valuable.
- Condition of the Coin
- Coins with better grades, especially those with full steps grading, are worth more.
- Historical Significance
- Coins with transitional designs or wartime special editions tend to be more popular with collectors.
Conclusion
The Jefferson nickel is an important part of U.S. coin history. Although the coin is usually in circulation at face value, some rare editions can sell for millions of dollars.
If you’re a collector, taking note of mint marks, errors, and grading can add value to your collection. Who knows—you might already have a rare Jefferson nickel that could be worth thousands of dollars!
FAQs
Q. What makes a Jefferson Nickel valuable?
A. Rare mint errors, low mintage, Full Steps designation, and high grades significantly increase a Jefferson Nickel’s value.
Q. What is the most expensive Jefferson Nickel ever sold?
A. The 1938-D Jefferson Nickel (MS68+ Full Steps) sold for $33,600, making it one of the highest-valued in the series.
Q. How can I tell if my Jefferson Nickel has Full Steps?
A. Full Steps refer to a well-struck reverse with all steps on Monticello clearly visible without breaks or weakness.
Q. Are wartime Jefferson Nickels worth collecting?
A. Yes, nickels from 1942-1945 contain silver and are often more valuable due to their historical significance and metal content.
Q. Where can I sell rare Jefferson Nickels?
A. You can sell them through auction houses, online marketplaces, coin dealers, or numismatic conventions.