Market for Jefferson Nickels
Jefferson nickels are still being made at the U.S. Mint and are actively used in commerce. Therefore, most circulated specimens are worth only face value, but a few are worth a little more.
Key Dates, Rarities, and Varieties
The following Jefferson nickels, in any condition, are worth considerable more than common ones. Therefore, look at the coin carefully or have the coin authenticated by a reputable coin dealer or third-party grading service. Note: The U.S. Mint issued these two nickels in special low mintage collector sets. The coins have a unique finish that gives the entire surface of the coin a frosty finish.
1994 P Matt Proof1997 P Matt Proof
Condition or Grade
If your coin is worn and looks similar to the one illustrated in the link below, it is considered a circulated coin. If your coin looks similar to the one illustrated in the link below and has no evidence of wear due to being in circulation, it is considered an uncirculated coin.
Mint Marks
The mint mark is located on the obverse of the coin, right side below the date. Coins that were minted in Philadelphia (1965-1979) had no mint mark, or a “P” mint mark from 1980 until the present. Denver used a “D” and San Francisco used an “S”.
Westward Journey Nickel Series Design Types
In 2004 the U.S. Mint began a special two-year series to commemorate the Louisiana Purchase and Lewis and Clark’s expedition. In 2004 the mint introduced two new reverse designs. In 2005 the obverse was changed, and two new reverses were used. In 2006 a new obverse was used, and the original reverse showing Thomas Jefferson’s home, Monticello, was used once again.
Jefferson Nickels Design Types
Original Design 1938-20032004 “Peace Medal” & “Keelboat” 2005 “Bison” & “Ocean"2006 - Present: New Monticello Reverse
Modern Jefferson Nickel Average Values & Prices The following table lists the buy price (what you can expect to pay to a dealer to purchase the coin) and sell value (what you can expect a dealer to pay you if you sell the coin). The first column lists the date, and mint mark, followed by the buy price and the sell value for an average circulated Jefferson five-cent coin. The following two columns list the buy price and the sell value for an average uncirculated. These are approximate retail prices and wholesale values. Of course, the actual offer you receive from a particular coin dealer will vary depending on the exact grade of the coin and several other factors that determine its worth.
