1954-D Jefferson Nickel

The 1954-D Jefferson Nickel had a total mintage of over 117 million coins struck at the Denver Mint. This was a huge jump in the number of coins struck compared to the years surrounding this one. This issue date wasn’t known for the best quality craftsmanship. The strike was poor for the 1954-D Jefferson Nickel which is why this coin is difficult to find in any grade above Mint State 66. With the Full Step designation, it is scarce in any grade above MS65 and will command a high price compared to the more common circulated coins of this issue date.

History of the 1954-D Jefferson Nickel

The 1954-D Jefferson Nickel is a coin where cherrypicking is essential due to the poor strike quality on some of the coins. When looking for your ideal example, seek out coins that have a sharp strike, nice details, and great overall eye appeal. It’s possible to build a more affordable Thomas Jefferson Nickel series by looking for coins that offer value for their grade as well as circulated coins if that’s what type of collection you’re after. Felix Schlag won a design contest for the Jefferson Nickel, and his designs are featured on all of the early years. The obverse of the coin depicts a left-facing profile of Thomas Jefferson’s head, and the reverse features his Monticello home. The ‘D’ mintmark can be found on this coin, and the Full Step designation signifies a full strike on the steps leading up to the Monticello.