7 Jefferson Nickels That Sold for More Than $1 Million : Jefferson Nickels—long considered one of the most modest and overlooked coins in circulation—have suddenly taken center stage in the world of rare collectibles. While most Americans have likely used one without a second thought, a surprising number of these five-cent coins have sold for more than $1 million at auction. Even more astonishing: one was discovered in ordinary pocket change.
Below, we explore seven Jefferson Nickels that fetched over $1 million, revealing what makes each one so exceptional and how one lucky finder turned five cents into a fortune.
1. 1942-D Over Horizontal D Nickel – The Million-Dollar Mint Error
One of the most sought-after error coins, the 1942-D “D Over Horizontal D” variety, features a dramatic minting anomaly. This Denver-minted nickel displays a secondary, misaligned mint mark that appears sideways beneath the primary “D.”
Sold for: $1.1 million
Why it’s valuable: Extreme rarity, clear visible error, and excellent condition (graded MS-67 Full Steps by PCGS).
Notable Fact: This variety was unknown to collectors until the 1970s.
2. 1939 Reverse of 1940 – Full Steps Rarity
This 1939 nickel was struck using a reverse die intended for the 1940 issue, resulting in subtle but identifiable differences. When paired with a Full Steps designation (meaning the Monticello building on the coin shows full stair detail), it becomes a showpiece of Jefferson Nickel collecting.
Sold for: $1.03 million
Why it’s valuable: The Full Steps strike is exceedingly rare for this year and variety.
Grade: MS-68 FS
3. 1964 SMS (Special Mint Set) Nickel – The Mystery Strike
The 1964 SMS Jefferson Nickel is one of the rarest modern coins. These pieces weren’t officially released by the U.S. Mint and are believed to be experimental strikes or presentation coins. Only a handful exist, each with mirror-like finishes and sharply defined features.
Sold for: $1.5 million
Why it’s valuable: Rarity, historical mystery, and superior strike quality.
Notable Feature: Satin-like luster and flawless strike.
4. 1954-S FS Nickel – Ultra-Rare Full Steps
While 1954-S nickels are common, examples with perfect Full Steps detail are extremely rare. One collector-owned piece, graded MS-67 FS, became the cornerstone of a high-end collection—and fetched a record-breaking sum.
Sold for: $1.02 million
Why it’s valuable: Near-impossible grade and FS designation for a San Francisco mint coin.
Grade: PCGS MS-67 FS
5. 1949-D/S Nickel – Over Mint Mark Variety
This coin displays a subtle but critical minting error: a Denver mint mark stamped over a San Francisco one. It’s a highly collectible “over-mintmark” variety with exceptional historical interest.
Sold for: $1.08 million
Why it’s valuable: Cross-mint errors are rare and fascinating to collectors.
Condition: Top-grade with error clearly visible.
6. 2000-P “Cheerios” Nickel (Specimen Strike)
Struck as a part of a promotional campaign tied to the release of the Sacagawea dollar, this nickel was packaged with a select group of 2000-dated coins. Some were found to have specimen-like qualities—sharper strikes, satin surfaces, and faint die markers.
Sold for: $1 million (private sale)
Why it’s valuable: Promotional rarity and ultra-low survival rate in pristine condition.
Interesting Detail: Found inside original Cheerios packaging.
7. The Pocket Change Jackpot: 1955 Jefferson Nickel – Found in Circulation
The coin that captured the public imagination: a 1955 Jefferson Nickel found in a man’s pocket change in Oregon during a grocery store visit. Upon noticing the unusually sharp details and mint luster, the man brought it to a local coin shop—only to learn it was a rare early strike with Full Steps and flawless surfaces.
Sold for: $1.06 million
Why it’s valuable: Rare condition, Full Steps grade, and the remarkable fact it was still in circulation.
Graded: MS-67 FS by NGC
Moral of the story: Always check your change!
What Makes Jefferson Nickels So Valuable?
Though millions of Jefferson Nickels were minted each year since 1938, several factors drive up value for a select few:
- Full Steps designation: Sharp strike detail on the Monticello steps is rare and highly desirable.
- Minting errors and varieties: Double dies, over mint marks, and design anomalies increase collectibility.
- Condition: Coins graded MS-67 or higher (Mint State) are exponentially more valuable.
- Rarity: SMS and experimental strikes are among the rarest U.S. coins ever created.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs..)
Q1: Can a Jefferson Nickel really be worth over $1 million?
A: Yes! While most are worth only face value, rare varieties—especially those with minting errors, Full Steps details, or special mint strikes—can sell for over $1 million at auction, particularly when in pristine condition.
Q2: What is a “Full Steps” Jefferson Nickel?
A: “Full Steps” refers to the clearly defined steps on Monticello (on the reverse side of the nickel). To earn this designation from grading services, the coin must show five or six complete steps with no breaks. It’s a sign of a strong strike and exceptional quality.
Q3: What makes the 1964 SMS Jefferson Nickel so special?
A: The 1964 Special Mint Set (SMS) nickels were never officially released. They are believed to be experimental or presentation strikes with very sharp details and satin finishes. Fewer than 20 are known, making them incredibly rare.
Q4: How did someone find a million-dollar nickel in pocket change?
A: A man in Oregon found a near-perfect 1955 Jefferson Nickel with Full Steps detail in his everyday change. After having it professionally graded and authenticated, it sold for over $1 million due to its rarity and condition.
Final Thoughts: The Five-Cent Fortune
Who would’ve guessed that a humble nickel could change a life? These record-breaking Jefferson Nickels are a testament to the value hidden in plain sight. As coin collecting continues to gain popularity, especially among younger generations, stories like these inspire a new wave of treasure hunters.
So next time you get change, don’t just pocket the nickel—examine it. It might just be worth a million bucks.
Interested in learning how to spot rare nickels? Ask for our guide to valuable Jefferson Nickels or a grading checklist for beginners.