1948 Jefferson Nickel
The 1948 Nickel, part of the Jefferson Nickel series, features a portrait of Thomas Jefferson on the obverse and his Monticello estate on the reverse. Made from a copper-nickel alloy, it does not contain silver. In circulated condition, a 1948 Nickel typically holds a value of $0.05. However, uncirculated examples can be worth $1 to $5 or more, with rare mint errors increasing the value for collectors.
The 1948 Jefferson Nickel has a total mintage of over 89 million coins struck at the Philadelphia Mint. This coin is a relatively common coin in the series, especially in circulated grades up to about Mint State 65. Above Mint State 65, it becomes much more difficult to find and obtain. The Full Step versions of this coin are difficult to find across all grades, and especially in Mint State 66 or higher. It will likely command a premium in the highest grades, although the 1948 Thomas Jefferson Nickel is still much more affordable in higher grades than some of the other coins in the series.
AUCTION RECORD: $1,650 • MS67
Image Source:PCGS
History of the 1948 Jefferson Nickel
The 1948 Jefferson Nickel is a beautiful coin that is worth the effort to cherrypick for a coin with great overall eye appeal and a good price. It should be very affordable in lower Mint State and circulated grades making it possible to build a collection at minimal cost, but still offering excellent variety for serious collectors. Felix Schlag won a design contest for the design of the Jefferson Nickel, and his originals featured Thomas Jefferson on the obverse of the coin with his Monticello home on the reverse. The Full Step versions featured a fully struck staircase on the Monticello home and typically command higher prices. The Jefferson Nickel is still in production today although the designs have changed somewhat over the years.
1948 Nickel Value
As of 2024, The value of a 1948 Nickel ranges from $0.05 in circulated condition to $1 to $5 in uncirculated condition. Factors such as mint mark, coin grade, and the presence of rare mint errors can significantly increase its value for collectors, especially well-preserved or error coins.
The 1948 Jefferson Nickel value ranges from around $1,600 to upwards of $3,700 for the highest grades of the coin in Mint State and Full Step. This is an attractive coin that shouldn’t cause too much difficulty to find in most grades up to about Mint State 65. It’s been located in higher grades, but collectors should be prepared to spend a bit more for the higher grades. The 1948 Jefferson Nickel would make an accessible and attractive addition to any Jefferson Nickel series collection.
Type of coin: Nickel
Year: 1948 Jefferson Nickel
Jefferson Nickel Mint Mark: Philadelphia
Total mintage: 89,348,000
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 1948 Nickel worth?
A 1948 Nickel is generally worth $0.05 in circulated condition. In uncirculated condition, its value can range from $1 to $5, depending on the grade, mint mark, and any rare errors.
2. What is the value of a 1948 P Nickel?
A 1948 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 1948 D Nickel?
A 1948 D Nickel (minted in Denver) is worth about $0.05 in circulated condition. Uncirculated examples may be valued between $2 and $5 or higher, depending on the coin's quality and rarity.
4. What is the value of a 1948 S Nickel?
A 1948 S Nickel (minted in San Francisco) generally has a value of $0.05 in circulated condition. Uncirculated examples can be worth between $3 and $6 or more, with higher premiums for well-preserved coins or those with rare characteristics.
5. What factors affect the value of a 1948 Nickel?
The value of a 1948 Nickel is determined by its condition, mint mark, and the presence of any mint errors. Coins in higher grades (better condition) or those with rare features can fetch a premium from collectors.
6. Does the 1948 Nickel contain silver?
No, the 1948 Nickel is made from a copper-nickel alloy and does not contain silver. Its value is based on its collectible worth rather than any intrinsic metal content.
7. Where is the mint mark on a 1948 Nickel?
The mint mark on a 1948 Nickel is located to the right of Monticello on the reverse side of the coin. Coins from Philadelphia have no mint mark, while Denver ("D") and San Francisco ("S") minted coins will show their respective mint marks.
8. Are 1948 Nickels rare?
1948 Nickels are not considered rare due to their large mintage. However, uncirculated coins, those in high grades, or examples with mint errors can be valuable to collectors.
9. How can I determine the grade of my 1948 Nickel?
The grade of a 1948 Nickel is determined by its condition, with factors like wear and surface quality. A professional coin grader or a coin grading guide can help assess its value, especially if it's in uncirculated condition.