Rare Monticello Jefferson
(1953, 1955-D, 1960, 1961, 1964-D, 1965, 1973-D, 1975, 1980-P & 2000-P Value Guide)
Most people see a nickel and think 5 cents.
Collectors see hidden history, rarity, and life-changing value 😲
Some Monticello Jefferson nickels—coins many people still overlook—have sold for $50,000… $150,000… even over $1,000,000 at auction.
In this detailed guide, you’ll discover:
- ✅ Which Jefferson nickels are worth thousands to millions
- ✅ How to identify mint marks & no-mint varieties
- ✅ Why grading and condition matter so much
- ✅ What to do if you think you own one
Let’s break it down step by step 👇
🏛️ The History of the Monticello Jefferson Nickel
Introduced in 1938, the Jefferson nickel replaced the Buffalo nickel and was designed by Felix Schlag.
- Obverse: Thomas Jefferson facing left
- Reverse: Monticello, Jefferson’s historic Virginia home
- Minted from 1938–2004
While millions were produced, very few survived in top condition, which is why elite examples command massive prices today.
⭐ 1953 Jefferson Nickel (No Mint Mark) — Worth Up to $85,000
- Minted at: Philadelphia (no mint mark)
- Historical era: Post–World War II America
💰 Value by Grade:
- MS60–MS63: $5,000 – $7,000
- MS64–MS65: $15,000 – $40,000
- MS66+: $65,000 – $85,000
🔍 High-grade examples with sharp Monticello details are extremely rare.
🪙 1955-D Jefferson Nickel — From $50 to $180,000
Two very different value paths:
🔹 Very Fine Condition
- Typical value: $50 – $100
- Popular with entry-level collectors
🔹 Uncirculated / Certified Examples
- Exceptional specimens have reached $180,000
- Scarcity in high grades drives value 🚀
💎 1960 Jefferson Nickel (No Mint Mark) — Up to $250,000+
One of the most coveted Jefferson nickels ever.
- Key feature: Full Steps on Monticello
- Minted at: Philadelphia
💥 PCGS & NGC MS65+ Full Steps coins can exceed $250,000
🔥 1961 Jefferson Nickel (No Mint Mark) — Around $150,000
- Very good uncirculated examples are rare
- Strong collector demand
- Philadelphia Mint issue
💰 Typical high-grade value: $150,000+
🏆 1964-D Jefferson Nickel — Worth Up to $65,000
- Last year of classic copper-nickel composition
- Denver Mint (D mint mark)
Value Breakdown:
- MS60–MS63: $500 – $5,000
- MS64–MS65: $10,000 – $30,000
- MS66+: $50,000 – $65,000
⚡ 1965 Jefferson Nickel (No Mint Mark) — Up to $1,000,000
Yes, really 😱
- Very Fine condition: $7,000+
- Extra Fine / Uncirculated: $800,000 – $1,000,000
Why so valuable?
- Heavy circulation year
- Very few pristine survivors
- Extreme collector competition
🧊 1973-D Jefferson Nickel — Worth $150,000+
- Denver Mint issue
- Look for Full Steps
- Uncirculated condition is critical
💰 Top examples exceed $150,000
💠 1975 Jefferson Nickel (No Mint Mark) — Over $50,000
- Philadelphia Mint
- MS67 Full Steps coins can reach $60,000+
- Weak strikes make sharp examples rare
🔴 1980-P Jefferson Nickel (Red Toning) — Up to $80,000
- Unique red / copper-toned coloration
- Philadelphia Mint
Value Range:
- Typical collector examples: $2,000
- Rare red-toned specimens: $70,000 – $80,000
⚫ 2000-P Jefferson Nickel (Black Color Shade) — Up to $150,000
- Rare black or dark-gray toning
- Environmental oxidation increases desirability
💰 Auction prices:
- Common: $1,000 – $2,500
- Black-shade gems: $15,000 – $150,000
🧠 Why Grading Matters (PCGS & NGC)
Professional grading can mean the difference between:
- ❌ $100
- ✅ $100,000+
Grading services use a 1–70 scale:
- MS60–63: noticeable marks
- MS64–65: strong eye appeal
- MS66–70: elite, auction-level coins
📌 Never clean your coin — it can destroy value instantly.
✅ What To Do If You Think You Have One
1️⃣ Handle only by the edges
2️⃣ Store in a protective holder
3️⃣ Check mint mark & date carefully
4️⃣ Submit to PCGS or NGC
5️⃣ Sell via certified auction houses for max value
🪙 Final Thoughts
The Monticello Jefferson nickel is far more than pocket change.
It’s history.
It’s rarity.
It’s opportunity.
One overlooked nickel could be worth more than a new car—or even a house 🏠💰
Before you spend it… check it carefully.
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