Most people think nickels are worth just five cents, but one rare version of the 1939 Jefferson Nickel is worth a jaw-dropping $350,000. Yes, it’s still possible to find this coin in circulation or inside old piggy banks. This article will help you understand what makes this coin special, how to identify it, and how to possibly sell it.
Why Are Some Jefferson Nickels Worth So Much?
Not all old coins are valuable. A coin becomes rare and expensive due to:
- Limited production (low mintage)
- Minting errors
- Unique design features
- Collector demand
The 1939 Jefferson Nickel with Full Steps is one such coin — it has all of these qualities.
What Is the 1939 Jefferson Nickel?
The Jefferson Nickel series began in 1938 and continues today. The 1939 edition is not automatically valuable, but a specific version of it is extremely rare and sought after by coin collectors.
The Valuable Version: 1939-D Jefferson Nickel with Full Steps
What to Look For:
- Mint Mark: Look for the “D” (Denver) mint mark on the reverse side.
- Full Steps Detail: Check the base of Monticello (Jefferson’s home). If the steps are fully visible and separated clearly, it’s called a Full Steps (FS) coin.
- Condition: The coin should be in uncirculated or mint condition for the highest value.
This specific coin — the 1939-D with Full Steps — is extremely hard to find because most coins from this mint year didn’t have full step details.
Why Is the 1939-D Full Steps Nickel So Valuable?
Here’s why it’s worth so much:
- Low Mintage: Only a few were struck with sharp Full Steps.
- Sharp Design: Most coins from that year had weak or blurry designs. Sharp ones are rare.
- Collector Demand: Coin collectors will pay a high price for top-grade Full Steps versions.
One perfect example of this coin in MS-68 Full Steps grade sold for over $350,000 at auction!
How to Identify a 1939-D Full Steps Jefferson Nickel
Step-by-Step Guide:
Step 1: Check the Year
Look for 1939 on the front of the coin.
Step 2: Flip the Coin
Find the mint mark “D” on the back, near the right of Monticello.
Step 3: Examine the Steps
Use a magnifying glass. If you see 5 or 6 complete, sharp steps with no damage or blur, you may have a Full Steps coin.
Step 4: Check the Condition
Coins in Mint State (MS-65 or higher) are the most valuable.
Comparison Table: Common vs. Rare 1939 Jefferson Nickel
| Feature | Common 1939 Nickel | 1939-D Full Steps Nickel |
|---|---|---|
| Mint Mark | No mint or “S” | “D” (Denver) |
| Steps on Monticello | Blurry or flat | Sharp, 5–6 full steps |
| Condition | Circulated | Uncirculated (MS-65+) |
| Estimated Value | ₹5–₹50 | Up to ₹2.9 Crore ($350K) |
| Rarity | Common | Extremely Rare |
Where Can You Sell a Rare 1939 Nickel?
If you believe you own this rare coin, here’s where to go:
- Certified Coin Dealers
- Numismatic Auctions (e.g., Heritage Auctions)
- eBay (with certification)
- Coin Shows and Expos
- Online Coin Communities and Forums
Important: Always get the coin graded and certified by PCGS or NGC before selling. It boosts credibility and value.
Tips to Avoid Getting Scammed
- Never clean the coin — it lowers the value.
- Get multiple appraisals.
- Avoid shady online buyers with no credentials.
- Use certified grading agencies only.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Is every 1939 Jefferson Nickel valuable?
No. Only the 1939-D Full Steps version in high-grade condition is extremely valuable.
Q2: How do I know if my coin is “Full Steps”?
Use a magnifying glass to look at Monticello’s base. If 5 or 6 steps are clearly visible and not worn down, it’s likely Full Steps.
Q3: Can I find this coin in my pocket change?
It’s very rare but not impossible. Most are found in old collections or inherited coin jars.
Q4: How do I get my coin certified?
Submit it to PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service) or NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Company) for professional grading.
Q5: What does “MS-65” mean?
It means “Mint State” with a score of 65 out of 70 — very well-preserved condition. Higher grades = higher value.
Conclusion: A 5-Cent Coin Worth ₹2.9 Crore?
Yes, it’s true — a 1939 Jefferson Nickel, if it’s the right type and in perfect condition, could be worth up to $350,000 (over ₹2.9 crore). Most of these coins are overlooked or lying in old drawers, waiting to be discovered. So check your change, your piggy banks, and your family’s old coin stash — you might already own a piece of treasure.