1939-S Jefferson Nickel
The 1939-S Jefferson Nickel had a total mintage of over 6.6 million coins struck at the San Francisco Mint. The 1939-S Jefferson Nickel has a relatively low mintage, especially compared to the years after its production. It can be found in both non-Full Step and Full Step varieties, with the Full Step variety being about ten times harder to find than the non-Full Step version. This coin is typically very difficult to find in any grade higher than MS65 and rarely MS66, and will likely command a higher price if found in those higher grades.
History of the 1939-S Jefferson Nickel
The 1939-S Jefferson Nickel is a special coin to find due to its low mintage. It features the “S” mint mark on the reverse of the coin next to the Monticello, which is Thomas Jefferson’s home. Thomas Jefferson is depicted on the obverse of the coin in profile. The Thomas Jefferson Nickel was designed by Felix Schlag after winning a design competition for the coins. This coin has a couple of varieties, one showing the reverse of the 1938 and the reverse of the 1940 Jefferson Nickel. Cherrypicking is advised to find a sharply struck coin with attractive surfaces. It’s possible to find a non-Full Step version up to about Mint State 67, although it is a true rarity.
1939-S Jefferson Nickel Value
The 1939-S Jefferson Nickel value ranges from around $1,100 to upwards of $8,000 for the highest grades of the coin. The Full Step versions typically command higher prices because the details are more sharply defined on the reverse of the coin, with Full Step representing the steps up to the Monticello house. The 1939-S Jefferson Nickel attracts attention due its low mintage, and would make a great addition to any Jefferson Nickel series collection.
Type of coin: Nickel
Year: 1939-S Jefferson Nickel
Jefferson Nickel Mint Mark: San Francisco
Total mintage: 6,630,000
Metal content: 75% Copper, 25% Nickel
Face value: 5 Cents
Weight: 5.00 grams
Edge: Plain
Designer: Felix Schlag
Diameter: 21.20 millimeters