1946 Nickel
The 1946 Nickel, also known as the Jefferson Nickel, was minted after World War II. It features Thomas Jefferson on the obverse and his Monticello home on the reverse. Made from a copper-nickel alloy, it does not contain silver. The 1946 Nickel is relatively common and typically valued around face value in circulated condition. Coins in uncirculated condition or those with rare mint errors may have higher value.
The 1946 Jefferson Nickel had a total mintage of over 161 million coins struck at the Philadelphia Mint. This was the first year of issue after the war nickels so the Jefferson Nickels no longer contain silver and instead revert back to having copper and nickel as their composition. This is a relatively common coin in circulated and lower Mint State grades. As it climbs into MS65 and MS66, it becomes scarcer and more difficult to locate, especially in Full Step versions where the stairs of the Monticello on the reverse of the coin are fully struck.
History of the 1946 Jefferson Nickel
The 1946 Jefferson Nickel has plenty of coins available so cherrypicking is advisable to find the ideal coin for your collection needs. Seek out coins that are well-struck, have excellent toning and coloring, and great overall eye appeal. Felix Schlag designed the original Jefferson Nickel and his designs were chosen during a competition. The obverse of the coin showcases Thomas Jefferson and the reverse depicts his Monticello home. The war nickels of the past few years were the first to have a “P” mint mark on them to represent Philadelphia, but the nickel varieties don’t have the mint mark on them for this location.
1946 Nickel Value
As of 2024, the value of a 1946 Nickel, a standard Jefferson Nickel made from a copper-nickel alloy, typically ranges from $0.10 to $2 in circulated condition. Uncirculated examples can be worth $5 to $10 or more, depending on their quality. Although not made of silver, coins in higher grades or with rare mint errors may command higher prices among collectors.
The 1946 Jefferson Nickel value ranges from around $1,700 to upwards of around $8,800 for the highest Mint State and Full Step varieties of the coin. Full Step versions typically command a higher price, and this is likely because they are more fully struck than non-Full Step versions. The 1946 Jefferson Nickel would make an excellent and accessible addition to any Jefferson Nickel series collection.
Type of coin: Nickel
Year: 1946 Jefferson Nickel
Jefferson Nickel Mint Mark: Philadelphia
Total mintage: 161,116,000
Metal content: 75% Copper, 25% Nickel
Face value: 5 Cents
Weight: 5.00 grams
Edge: Plain
Designer: Felix Schlag
Diameter: 21.20 millimeters
FAQ
1. How much is a 1946 Nickel worth?
A 1946 Nickel generally has a value of $0.10 to $2 in circulated condition. Uncirculated examples can be worth $5 to $10 or more, depending on their quality.
2. What is the value of a 1946 P Nickel?
A 1946 P Nickel, minted in Philadelphia, is typically valued between $0.10 and $2 in circulated condition. In uncirculated condition, it can range from $5 to $10 or higher, depending on its grade.
3. What makes a 1946 Nickel valuable?
The 1946 Nickel’s value is influenced by its condition, with uncirculated or mint-state coins generally being worth more. Coins with rare mint errors or exceptional eye appeal can also command higher prices.
4. How do I determine the value of my 1946 Nickel?
To determine the value of your 1946 Nickel, assess its condition (circulated vs. uncirculated), and look for any mint errors. Coins in higher grades or with unique features are more valuable.
5. Where is the mintmark on a 1946 Nickel?
The mintmark on a 1946 Nickel is located to the right of Monticello on the reverse side. It will be a "P" (Philadelphia), "D" (Denver), or "S" (San Francisco). Philadelphia Mint coins typically do not have a mintmark.
6. Are 1946 Nickels rare?
The 1946 Nickel is not considered rare. It is a common issue from the post-WWII era. However, higher-quality or error coins may be more valuable to collectors.
7. How much is a 1946 D Nickel worth?
A 1946 D Nickel, minted in Denver, usually ranges from $0.10 to $2 in circulated condition. In uncirculated condition, it can be worth $5 to $10 or more, depending on its grade.
8. How much is a 1946 S Nickel worth?
A 1946 S Nickel, minted in San Francisco, typically values between $0.10 and $2 in circulated condition. Uncirculated examples can be worth $5 to $10 or more, depending on their condition.
Learn more about: 1964 nickel, 1963 nickel, 1962 nickel, 1961 nickel, 1958 nickel, 1954 nickel, 1949 nickel, 1948 nickel, 1947 nickel, 1946 nickel.