Jefferson Nickels have long been a staple of American coinage, introduced in 1938 and still in circulation today. While they are often seen as common pocket change, certain Jefferson Nickels are worth much more than their face value.
These rare finds can fetch impressive sums at auctions or among collectors, making it worthwhile to check your collection. Below are six valuable Jefferson Nickels that have caught the attention of numismatists.
1939-D Reverse of 1940
This nickel is a standout due to its unique reverse design, which was used briefly in 1939 before being replaced. Coins with this reverse are rare, and high-grade examples can easily surpass the $10,000 mark.
1942-D Over Horizontal D
Known for its striking error, this coin features a mintmark with a horizontal “D” struck underneath the regular mintmark. The rarity of this error, combined with its appeal to collectors, makes it one of the most sought-after Jefferson Nickels.
1949-D D Over S
A significant error coin, the 1949-D D Over S nickel displays an “S” mintmark beneath the “D.” With a limited number of examples discovered, this error has earned a special place in the hearts of coin enthusiasts.
1954-S S Over D
This coin is famous for its fascinating mintmark error. The “S” appears to have been stamped over a “D,” creating a unique appearance. Its value soars in higher grades, making it a prized addition to any collection.
1939 Doubled Monticello
One of the most famous varieties in the Jefferson Nickel series, this coin features a doubling of “Monticello” and “Five Cents” on the reverse. These doubled-die coins are highly desirable and can fetch substantial prices depending on their condition.
1943-P War Nickel with Doubled Eye
Minted during World War II, this nickel is made of a silver alloy. Its distinguishing feature is the doubled image of Jefferson’s eye on the obverse. This unusual variety makes it a valuable find among collectors.
| Coin | Year of Issue | Mintmark | Unique Feature | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1939-D Reverse of 1940 | 1939 | D | Reverse Design Change | $10,000+ |
| 1942-D Over Horizontal D | 1942 | D | Mintmark Error | $12,000+ |
| 1949-D D Over S | 1949 | D | Mintmark Error | $10,500+ |
| 1954-S S Over D | 1954 | S | Mintmark Error | $11,000+ |
| 1939 Doubled Monticello | 1939 | No Mintmark | Doubled Reverse Details | $10,000+ |
| 1943-P Doubled Eye | 1943 | P | Obverse Doubling | $10,000+ |
Collecting Jefferson Nickels can be an exciting and profitable endeavor. By paying close attention to unique features, mintmarks, and errors, you might uncover a valuable coin in your collection. Whether you’re a seasoned numismatist or a casual hobbyist, these six coins are worth searching for.
