The 1997-P Special Jefferson Nickel is a unique and notable for its matte finish and low mintage. This special edition coin stands out in the series, which features the enduring design by Felix Schlag.
The coin was included exclusively in the 1997 Botanic Garden Coinage and Currency Set, sold directly to collectors by the U.S. Mint to honor the 150th anniversary of the United States Botanic Garden. Only 25,000 sets were issued, making this one of the most scarce 5 cent coins of the 20th century.
Coins graded by professional services like PCGS and NGC can fetch higher prices.
| Condition | Estimated Value Range |
|---|---|
| MS66 | $100 – $150 |
| MS69 | $200 – $300 |
| MS70 | $300 – $400 |
1939-D
The 1939-D Jefferson Nickel is one of the lowest mintages of the series. Only 3,514,000 coins were minted, making it one of the key dates for nickel collectors. The “D” mint mark is located on the reverse side to the right of Monticello.
1939-D Value Chart
| Condition | Estimated Value Range |
|---|---|
| Good | $10 – $20 |
| Fine | $20 – $40 |
| Extra Fine (XF45) | $40 – $70 |
| About Uncirculated (AU) | $70 – $120 |
| Brilliant Uncirculated (BU) | $120 – $200 |
| MS66 | $200 – $400 |
1949-D D Over S
The 1949-D Jefferson Nickel “D Over S” variety is a fascinating and unique error that features a Denver mintmark (“D”) struck over an underlying San Francisco mintmark (“S”). This creates a distinct over-mintmark visible under magnification.
In the late 1940s, the U.S. Mint sometimes repurposed dies between mints and mintmarks were hand-punched into working dies. Dies initially prepared for the San Francisco Mint were occasionally sent to the Denver Mint. Instead of removing the existing “S” mintmark, the Denver Mint punched a “D” over it, resulting in the “D Over S” error.
There are specific die varieties cataloged for this error. Refer to numismatic resources like the Cherrypickers’ Guide to Rare Die Varieties for detailed images and descriptions. Some coins may exhibit additional die markers or anomalies that can help confirm authenticity.
1943 P Doubled Eye
The 1943 “Doubled Eye” Nickel error is a unique variety from the wartime silver series that is specific to the Philadelphia mint. This error shows noticeable doubling on Thomas Jefferson’s eye on the obverse side, giving the appearance of an extra eye.
1943 P 3 Over 2
Another 35% silver war nickel error coin is the 1943-P “3 Over 2” nickel error occurred when a 1943 date was struck over an earlier 1942 die. This results in a visible number “2” beneath the “3” in the date. T
Typically valued between $50 and $100, depending on wear. In Mint State, prices start around $150 and can reach $400 or more. Examples with Full Steps showing in the picture of Monticello can command even higher values.
1945 P Doubled Die Reverse
The 1945-P Jefferson Nickel Doubled Die Reverse (DDR) is specific to the Philadelphia-minted 1945 nickel. This error displays doubling of the reverse lettering around the words “E PLURIBUS UNUM,” “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” and “MONTICELLO.”
1939 P Double Monticello
The 1939-P “Double Monticello” Nickel shows noticeable doubling on parts of the building. With this error, you’ll see clear, doubled lines on the lettering and parts of the building itself, particularly on Monticello’s steps, doors, and columns.
The worth of these coins ranges from $30 to $80 based on wear and the visibility of the doubling. Mint State and Uncirculated examples start around $100 and can reach $400 or more in higher grades with strong doubling details.
1942-D D Over D
The 1942-D “D Over D” is a popular repunched mintmark (RPM) error where the “D” mintmark was struck more than once
When looking at the mintmark on the reverse, you’ll notice an additional “D” impression that is visible slightly to the side, above, or below the main mintmark.
The most famous is the 1942-D Over Horizontal D (FS-501, RPM-001), but there are multiple other D/D RPM varieties recognized by numismatists.
The 1942-D/D Tilted (RPM-007, RPM-009) shows the repunched mintmark misaligned at an angle.
The 1942-D/D East variety (RPM-002) shows a second “D” was repunched slightly to the east (right).
The 1942-D/D West variety (RPM-003, RPM-008, RPM-010) features a repunched “D” with the secondary impression to the west (left).
A 1942-D “D over D” error coin is worth between $10 and $30, depending on the clarity of the repunched mintmark. In uncirculated grades, values start around $50 and can go up to $150 or more.
The world of Jefferson Nickels is filled with fascinating history and valuable finds. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting, these coins offer a unique glimpse into America’s past and can be a rewarding addition to any collection.
