Jefferson nickels, first minted in 1938, are common in U.S. currency. However, certain rare editions have become highly sought after by collectors, with some fetching impressive sums at auctions. Below, we explore five of the most valuable Jefferson nickels, each with unique characteristics that contribute to their significant worth.
1. 1964 SMS (Special Mint Set) Jefferson Nickel
In 1964, the U.S. Mint produced a limited number of Special Mint Set (SMS) coins with a distinctive matte finish. These coins exhibit an extraordinary sharp strike, surpassing typical proof coins in quality. It’s believed that fewer than 40 examples of this sharply struck matte proof exist, making the 1964 SMS Jefferson nickel one of the rarest in the series. In 2016, a specimen graded SP68 was auctioned for $32,900.
2. 1942-D “D Over Horizontal D” Jefferson Nickel
This intriguing variety features a mintmark error where a “D” was stamped over a horizontally positioned “D.” Such errors occurred because mintmarks were hand-punched onto working dies, leading to occasional misalignments. Approximately 20,000 examples of this error are estimated to exist, with only about 500 exhibiting the “Full Steps” designation, indicating a sharp, well-struck coin. In 2006, an MS66 graded coin was sold for $32,200.
3. 1939 Doubled Monticello Jefferson Nickel
This coin displays a doubled die error on the reverse side, particularly noticeable on the inscriptions “MONTICELLO” and “FIVE CENTS.” Such doubling errors are highly sought after by collectors due to their rarity and visual appeal. In 2016, a 1939 Doubled Monticello nickel graded MS67 fetched $20,562 at auction.
4. 1955-D “D Over S” Jefferson Nickel
In this variety, the Denver Mint’s “D” mintmark was stamped over an existing “S” mintmark from the San Francisco Mint, resulting in a distinct overpunched mintmark error. This occurred when dies intended for one mint were repurposed at another, leading to such anomalies. An MS67 graded example of this coin was sold for $16,450 in 2015.
5. 1943-P “3 Over 2” Overdate Jefferson Nickel
This overdate error features the numeral “3” stamped over a “2” in the date, creating a unique and noticeable anomaly. Such errors typically happened when the mint altered dates on existing dies rather than creating new ones. A 1943-P “3 Over 2” nickel graded MS67 was auctioned for $16,675 in 2008.
| Year | Mint Mark | Variety/Error | Grade | Auction Price | Auction Year |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1964 | SMS | Special Mint Set | SP68 | $32,900 | 2016 |
| 1942 | D | D Over Horizontal D | MS66 | $32,200 | 2006 |
| 1939 | P | Doubled Monticello | MS67 | $20,562 | 2016 |
| 1955 | D | D Over S | MS67 | $16,450 | 2015 |
| 1943 | P | 3 Over 2 Overdate | MS67 | $16,675 | 2008 |
While Jefferson nickels are common in circulation, certain rare varieties and errors have transformed some into highly valuable collector’s items. Understanding the unique features that contribute to a coin’s rarity—such as mintmark errors, overdates, and the “Full Steps” designation—can aid collectors and enthusiasts in identifying potentially valuable pieces. Regularly examining your coins for these distinctive traits could uncover hidden treasures worth significant sums.
FAQs
What is the “Full Steps” designation on Jefferson nickels?
The “Full Steps” (FS) designation refers to the clarity and completeness of the steps on Monticello, depicted on the coin’s reverse. For a coin to receive the FS designation, all steps must be fully visible without significant wear or blending. This feature indicates a sharp strike and enhances the coin’s value.
How can I identify a doubled die error on a Jefferson nickel?
A doubled die error occurs when the coin’s design elements appear duplicated due to a misalignment during the die creation process. On Jefferson nickels, this can be observed as doubling in inscriptions or design details, such as the “MONTICELLO” text on the reverse. Using a magnifying glass can help in identifying these errors.
What makes the 1964 SMS Jefferson nickel so valuable?
The 1964 SMS Jefferson nickel is valuable due to its rarity and exceptional strike quality. Produced as part of a Special Mint Set with a matte finish, fewer than 40 examples are believed to exist, making it one of the rarest Jefferson nickels.
