Most people glance at a nickel and see just five cents. But what if that simple coin in your hand is secretly worth hundreds — or even thousands — of dollars? Among the everyday Jefferson nickels, a few rare dates and mint errors have become hidden treasures. Let’s dive into the surprising list of 7 Jefferson Nickels that are shockingly valuable today.
The Story Behind Jefferson Nickels
Introduced in 1938, the Jefferson nickel replaced the Buffalo nickel and has remained in circulation ever since. Designed by Felix Schlag, it features President Thomas Jefferson on the obverse and Monticello on the reverse. While billions were minted, only a small fraction carry rare characteristics that make them highly collectible.
Why Some Jefferson Nickels Are Valuable
The value comes down to rarity, condition, and mistakes. Low mintage years, minting errors, and wartime silver issues have created versions that collectors eagerly hunt for. A nickel worth five cents in your wallet could fetch thousands in an auction if it has the right qualities.
7 Jefferson Nickels That Are Surprisingly Valuable
1. 1939-D Jefferson Nickel (Reverse of 1940)
This coin shows the “Reverse of 1940” design with sharper steps on Monticello. Low mintages make it rare and valuable in high grades.
Value Range: $40 – $1,000+ depending on condition.
2. 1942-D Over Horizontal D Nickel
This wartime transitional error displays a “D” mintmark struck over another horizontal D. Scarce and highly collectible.
Value Range: $100 – $3,000.
3. 1943/2-P Silver Wartime Nickel
Struck during WWII when nickels contained 35% silver, this overdate error (3 over 2) is one of the most famous Jefferson nickels.
Value Range: $300 – $5,000.
4. 1950-D Jefferson Nickel
Known as the “King of Jefferson Nickels,” this low-mintage issue had only 2.6 million coins struck, the lowest of the series.
Value Range: $20 – $1,500.
5. 1964 Special Mint Set (SMS) Nickel
Extremely rare, these nickels were part of experimental sets and are not found in circulation. Only a handful exist.
Value Range: $8,000 – $15,000+.
6. 1971 No-S Proof Jefferson Nickel
Proof nickels normally have an “S” mintmark, but a few 1971 proofs were struck without it. Collectors will pay a premium.
Value Range: $500 – $3,500.
7. 2000-P “Speared Bison” Nickel
A modern error where a die gouge appears like a spear through the bison on the reverse. A favorite among error collectors.
Value Range: $50 – $1,200.
Quick Reference: Rare Jefferson Nickels and Values
| Year / Type | Key Feature | Value Range |
|---|---|---|
| 1939-D Reverse of 1940 | Rare reverse design | $40 – $1,000+ |
| 1942-D Over Horizontal D | Double D mintmark error | $100 – $3,000 |
| 1943/2-P Wartime Silver Nickel | Overdate (3 over 2) | $300 – $5,000 |
| 1950-D | Lowest mintage | $20 – $1,500 |
| 1964 SMS | Special Mint Set rarity | $8,000 – $15,000+ |
| 1971 No-S Proof | Missing mintmark | $500 – $3,500 |
| 2000-P Speared Bison | Die gouge error | $50 – $1,200 |
Notable Facts That Will Surprise You
- Some Jefferson nickels contain 35% silver (1942–1945 wartime issues).
- The 1950-D nickel was once hoarded by collectors, making circulation finds nearly impossible.
- A single 1964 SMS Jefferson nickel sold for over $30,000 at auction.
Expert Tips for Collectors
- Check Monticello Steps — Coins with “Full Steps” details on Monticello are far more valuable.
- Focus on Condition — Higher grades (MS65 and above) bring premium prices.
- Get Certified — Professional grading from PCGS or NGC boosts credibility and value.
FAQs
Q: Can I find these nickels in circulation today?
A: Yes, though rare. Older nickels may turn up in pocket change or coin rolls.
Q: Are all Jefferson nickels worth saving?
A: Not all, but checking dates, mintmarks, and errors can reveal hidden treasures.
Q: How do I sell a rare Jefferson nickel?
A: Auctions, coin shows, and online marketplaces are popular options. Certified coins sell for higher prices.
Conclusion: Don’t Underestimate the Nickel in Your Pocket
The Jefferson nickel series may seem ordinary, but hidden among them are coins worth thousands. From the iconic 1950-D low mintage to the rare 1964 SMS nickel, these little five-cent pieces prove that even the smallest coins can hold big surprises. Next time you get change, take a closer look — you might be holding a hidden treasure.