1947 Nickel
The 1947 Nickel, part of the Jefferson Nickel series, features Thomas Jefferson on the obverse and his Monticello home on the reverse. Made from a copper-nickel alloy, it does not contain silver. In circulated condition, the 1947 Nickel typically holds a value of $0.05. However, uncirculated or mint-condition examples can be worth $1 to $3, with rare mint errors increasing the value for collectors.
The 1947 Jefferson Nickel had a total mintage of exactly 95 million coins struck at the Philadelphia Mint. This is one of the more common coins in the series. It only becomes scarce in Mint State 66 or higher. The Full Step varieties in higher grades are even more difficult to find. It’s believed that less than a dozen examples are in existence. While it is difficult to find higher grades, it’s not impossible, and considering the cost of many of the higher Mint State and Full Step grades in the series, the 1947 Thomas Jefferson Nickel is much more affordable in the highest grades.
AUCTION RECORD: $10,000
Image source: PCGS
History of the 1947 Jefferson Nickel
The 1947 Jefferson Nickel is a plentiful and accessible coin to find, both in existence and cost. It’s worth the effort to cherrypick and find a well-struck coin with attractive surfaces and excellent toning. Felix Schlag designed the original Jefferson Nickel and was chosen from a design competition. The obverse of these early Jefferson Nickels features a left-facing profile of Thomas Jefferson’s face, and the reverse showcases his Monticello home. The Philadelphia minted coins typically don’t have a mint mark, as is the case with this coin, and only the war nickels between 1942 and 1945 had the P mint mark.
1947 Nickel Value
The value of a 1947 Nickel ranges from $0.05 in circulated condition to $1 to $3 in uncirculated condition. Factors such as mint mark, coin grade, and the presence of rare mint errors can increase its value. Well-preserved examples or those with unique characteristics are particularly sought after by collectors.
The 1947 Jefferson Nickel value ranges between $250 and upwards of $4,000 for the highest Mint State and Full Step versions of the coin. This is relatively inexpensive compared to many of the other coins in the series, making it a great coin for collectors looking to build a collection on a budget. The Jefferson Nickel series is still in production today, although the designs have changed somewhat over the years.
Type of coin: Nickel
Year: 1947 Jefferson Nickel
Jefferson Nickel Mint Mark: Philadelphia
Total mintage: 95,000,000
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 1947 Nickel worth?
A 1947 Nickel is generally worth $0.05 in circulated condition. In uncirculated condition, its value can range from $1 to $3, depending on its quality and any unique characteristics.
2. What is the value of a 1947 P Nickel?
A 1947 P Nickel (minted in Philadelphia) typically holds a value of $0.05 in circulated condition. In uncirculated condition, its value can range from $1 to $3 or more.
3. What is the value of a 1947 D Nickel?
A 1947 D Nickel (minted in Denver) is valued at about $0.05 in circulated condition, with uncirculated examples ranging from $1 to $5, depending on their condition.
4. What is the value of a 1947 S Nickel?
A 1947 S Nickel (minted in San Francisco) generally has a value of $0.05 in circulated condition. In uncirculated condition, it can be worth between $2 to $6, with higher values for coins in better condition.
5. What factors affect the value of a 1947 Nickel?
The value of a 1947 Nickel is determined by its condition (circulated or uncirculated), mint mark, and any errors or unique features. Coins in uncirculated condition or those with rare mint errors are more valuable.
6. Does the 1947 Nickel contain silver?
No, the 1947 Nickel is made from a copper-nickel alloy and does not contain silver. Its value is based on its collectible worth, not any intrinsic metal content.
7. Where is the mint mark on a 1947 Nickel?
The mint mark on a 1947 Nickel is located on the reverse side, to the right of Monticello. Philadelphia Mint coins do not have a mint mark, while coins from Denver ("D") and San Francisco ("S") will have their respective marks.
8. Are 1947 Nickels rare?
The 1947 Nickel is not considered rare due to its large mintage, but coins in uncirculated condition or those with mint errors can be valuable to collectors.
9. How do I determine the grade of a 1947 Nickel?
The grade of a 1947 Nickel is based on its wear and preservation. Coins with minimal wear and high detail are considered uncirculated and can command higher values. You can consult a coin grading guide or have a professional appraise the coin.
Learn more about: 1964 nickel, 1963 nickel, 1961 nickel, 1958 nickel, 1954 nickel, 1949 nickel, 1948 nickel, 1946 nickel.