1949 Jefferson Nickel

The 1949 Jefferson Nickel had a total mintage of over 60 million coins struck at the Philadelphia Mint. This year of issue from the Philadelphia Mint across all U.S. coins was known for being some of the worst craftsmanship to come out of the mint between 1940 and 1964. Due to this fact, the 1949 Jefferson Nickel is one of the most difficult to find in any grade at or above Mint State 66. If found in MS66 or higher, it would command a premium. Cherrypicking is highly advised with this issue date, and it would be well worth the effort and price tag to find a well-struck coin. 

 

History of the 1949 Thomas Jefferson Nickel

The 1949 Jefferson Nickel will likely be difficult to find well-struck with attractive surfaces. Some do exist, so it’s worth the effort to hunt for them if that’s what you seek for your collection. Felix Schlag designed the original Jefferson Nickel after winning a design contest. His coin features a left-facing Thomas Jefferson on the obverse, and Jefferson’s Monticello home on the reverse. There is no mint mark for Philadelphia minted coins at this time except for the war nickels a few years prior. The Jefferson Nickel is still in production today, although the designs have changed somewhat over the years. 

 

1949 Jefferson Nickel Value

The 1949 Jefferson Nickel value ranges from around $1,100 to upwards of $6,300 for the highest Mint State and Full Step grades of the coin available, which appears to max out around Mint State and Full Step 66. It’s possible to build an affordable Jefferson Nickel series collection by seeking out circulated or lower grade coins that often go for well below $100. The 1949 Jefferson Nickel could make an accessible addition to any nickel series collection. 

 

Type of coin: Nickel

Year: 1949 Jefferson Nickel

Jefferson Nickel Mint Mark: Philadelphia

Total mintage: 60,652,000

Metal content: 75% Copper, 25% Nickel

Face value: 5 Cents

Weight: 5.00 grams

Edge: Plain

Designer: Felix Schlag

Diameter: 21.20 millimeters