1950 Jefferson Nickel Value Soars To $2,184 In Rare Condition

Whether you’re a seasoned numismatist or just beginning your journey, the 1950 Jefferson nickel is sure to catch your eye. Produced toward the end of World War II during an economic downturn, this coin became a popular choice for collectors. The 1950-D nickel, in particular, has a low mintage, making it especially sought after. If you’re working on completing your Jefferson nickel collection, this coin is essential.

In this guide, we will dive into the value of the 1950 nickel, its unique history, and offer advice on grading your coin. We’ll also explore some minting errors that could enhance your 1950 nickel’s value.

Let’s get started and answer the question: how much is a 1950 nickel worth?

1950 Nickel Value Chart

Mint Mark	Good	Fine	Extremely Fine	Uncirculated
1950-No Mint Mark Nickel Value	$0.10	$0.10	$0.10	$150
1950-D Nickel Value	$5.50	$6.75	$8	$190
1950 Proof Nickel Value	–	–	–	$550

History of the 1950 Nickel

The 1950 nickel is part of the longstanding Jefferson nickel series, which has been in circulation since 1938, replacing the unpopular Buffalo nickel. The Buffalo nickel had faced criticism during its production, leading to numerous calls for its replacement. In 1938, after 25 years, the United States Mint was able to introduce a new design without requiring congressional approval.

In January of 1938, the Mint held a design competition, offering a $1,000 cash prize to the winning artist. The chosen design featured President Thomas Jefferson on the front, and his home, Monticello, on the back. The winner was sculptor Felix Schlag, who based the obverse on Jean-Antoine Houdon’s bust of Jefferson and designed a three-quarter view of Monticello for the reverse. After adjustments to remove certain elements, Schlag’s design was approved for production.

The first Jefferson nickels were struck in October 1938 at the Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco mints. The Mint made improvements in subsequent years, including clarifying the steps on the Monticello building’s design, which became a key feature for collectors.

During World War II, the Mint changed the composition of the nickel due to a shortage of nickel metal, using 56% copper, 35% silver, and 9% manganese starting in 1942. This also marked the first time a “P” mintmark appeared on coins minted at the Philadelphia Mint. The return of the no-mintmark and small mintmark versions occurred in 1946.

In 1950, production at the Denver Mint was limited to just 2,630,030 coins, creating a rare and highly desirable 1950-D nickel. Despite the low mintage, these coins were widely collected and saved, which is why you can still find them today, even in Mint State conditions. Proof coin production resumed at the Philadelphia Mint in 1950 after a brief hiatus.

Given its historical importance, the 1950 nickel is an excellent addition to any Jefferson collection.

Features of the 1950 Nickel

Recognizing the features of the 1950 nickel is essential when grading and determining the value of the coin. It will also help you identify valuable Jefferson nickels worth adding to your collection.

Obverse of the 1950 Nickel

The obverse features a left-facing profile of Thomas Jefferson, with the words “IN GOD WE TRUST” arched along the left rim and “LIBERTY” and “1950” engraved on the right side, separated by a five-pointed star.

Reverse of the 1950 Nickel

The reverse displays Monticello, Jefferson’s Virginia home. The Latin phrase “E PLURIBUS UNUM” is arched at the top along the rim. Below the building is “MONTICELLO” and the coin’s denomination “FIVE CENTS.” At the bottom rim, the inscription reads “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.”

Other Features of the 1950 Nickel

• Diameter: 21.20 millimeters
• Weight: 5.00 grams
• Edge: Plain
• Metal Composition: 75% Copper, 25% Nickel

1950 Nickel Grading

Grading your 1950 Jefferson nickel is key to understanding its value. Pay attention to areas with high contact, such as Jefferson’s portrait and the Monticello, as these areas will show wear first.

Here’s a brief guide to grading your 1950 Jefferson nickel:

• Good (G4-G6): A coin with this grade will show heavy wear, with details softened and most of Jefferson’s features nearly erased. The Monticello may be faint, with weak inscriptions.
• Fine (F12-F15): The coin shows moderate wear, with clearer details of Jefferson’s portrait and Monticello. The Monticello’s architectural details may still be weak, and the steps will be unclear.
• Extremely Fine (XF40-XF45): Slight wear is visible, and most details are sharp, including Jefferson’s hair and coat collar. The Monticello’s features are clearer, though not perfect.
• Uncirculated (MS60-MS70): These coins are in excellent condition, with no signs of wear. Full steps on the Monticello and sharp details across the entire coin are present in gem-quality examples.

1950 Nickel Value Guides

The value of a 1950 nickel depends on its mintmark, rarity, and condition. Below is a breakdown of the value for each variety:

1950 No-Mintmark Nickel

The Philadelphia Mint struck 9,796,000 nickels in 1950, one of the lowest mintages for the period. While circulated examples are common, uncirculated versions in higher grades are more valuable.

1950-D Nickel

With only 2,630,030 minted, the 1950-D nickel is one of the rarest and most desirable of the Jefferson series. Even circulated examples fetch a premium compared to other 1950 nickels.

1950 Proof Nickel

The Philadelphia Mint produced 51,386 proof nickels in 1950, with a high demand causing proof sets to sell out quickly. Most proof examples are easily available, but the rare Deep Cameo examples are highly valuable.

Rare 1950 Nickel Errors

Minting errors can significantly increase the value of a 1950 nickel. Here are some of the most notable errors to look for:

1. Broad Struck Error: This error occurs when the planchet is struck outside the coin collar, causing one side to expand and the design to be partially or completely missing. This error can add $20-$100 to the value.
2. Clipped Planchet Error: A clipped planchet occurs when part of the metal is missing during the cutting process. This error can increase a coin’s value by $30-$150.
3. Die Crack Error: A die crack occurs when the die has a crack that transfers to the coin. Depending on the size and visibility of the crack, this error can add $10-$50 to the coin’s value.
4. Re-Punched Date Error: This error happens when the date is stamped more than once, causing doubling. Strong examples can add $10-$100 to the coin’s value.

Where to Sell Your 1950 Jefferson Nickel?

If you’re looking to sell your 1950 Jefferson nickel, it’s important to know where to find reputable buyers. Consider checking online coin dealers or auction platforms to ensure you get the best value for your coins.