The value of a 1946 Jefferson Nickel (5-cent coin) can vary significantly depending on several factors, primarily its condition and the presence of any rare mint errors.
- Circulated Condition: In circulated condition, a standard 1946 Jefferson Nickel, made from a copper-nickel alloy, typically ranges from $0.10 to $2.
- Uncirculated Condition: Uncirculated examples, depending on their quality and grade, can be worth $5 to $10 or more.
- Condition: The condition is a major determinant of value. Coins without any wear to the surface (Mint State) are highly valued by collectors.
- Mint Mark: The mint mark, located to the right of Monticello on the reverse, indicates where the coin was minted:
– No mint mark: Philadelphia Mint.
– D: Denver Mint.
– S: San Francisco Mint.
– San Francisco Nickels from 1946 are considered less collectible due to their large mintage (over 13 million).
- Errors and Varieties: Rare mint errors or varieties can significantly increase the value of a 1946 Nickel, sometimes commanding hundreds or even thousands of dollars. For example:
– Doubled Die Reverse (FS-801): This variety can be quite valuable.
– Doubled Die Obverse (FS-101): Notable for doubling on the date, especially the “6”.
– D/Inverted D or D/D: Repunched or inverted Denver mint mark.
– Errors on War Nickel Planchets: Some 1946 nickels were accidentally struck on the leftover silver alloy planchets from the War Nickel program. These coins have a grayish tone and can be more valuable.
– Other Potential Errors: Off-center strikes, clipped planchets, die cracks, or cuds.
In conclusion, while a standard 1946 Jefferson Nickel in circulated condition may only be worth slightly more than its face value, collectors are willing to pay a premium for examples in pristine, uncirculated condition or with rare mint errors or varieties. To accurately determine the value of a specific 1946 5-cent coin, it’s essential to assess its condition and examine it closely for any of the mentioned errors or varieties.
How do I know if my 1946 nickel is valuable?
Good point! It’s a 1946D5. Jefferson nickel so essentially the same coin as the previous one except. This one has a few different details on it. So first of all it is a higher grade it’s a mintstate 67. Plus that
What year is the rarest 5 cent coin?
Australia 1972 5 Cent Coin Circulated. This is an honest example of the rarest Australian 5 cent coin issued into circulation.
Why is a 1946 nickel worth so much?
The market for hard-to-find, attractive, high-quality 1946 nickels sustains the metal’s worth. Since 1938, the Buffalo Nickel has been superseded by the Jefferson Nickel five-cent piece. This design is still in production today since it has withstood the test of time.