Jefferson Nickel Errors
Jefferson nickels have been minted since 1938 and contain several key error varieties. The 1939-1964 era is particularly rich in errors, and war nickels (1942-1945) struck in 35% silver add extra collecting interest.
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Scan My CoinKnown Errors
1943-P 3 Over 2 Overdate
The 3 in the date was punched over a 2, showing remnants of the underlying digit.
How to check: Examine the 3 in 1943 under magnification. You should see traces of a 2 beneath it.
$50 - $300Full Steps (FS) Designation
While not an error, nickels showing all 5 or 6 steps on Monticello command premiums. Steps are often weakly struck.
How to check: Examine the steps at the base of Monticello on the reverse. Count the visible, complete, unbroken step lines.
$5 - $500+ for key dates with Full StepsDoubled Die Varieties
Doubling on the date, LIBERTY, MONTICELLO, or E PLURIBUS UNUM lettering.
How to check: Use magnification on date, motto, and reverse lettering. Focus on IN GOD WE TRUST and MONTICELLO.
$10 - $200Off-Center Strike
Design shifted due to improper coin centering during striking.
How to check: Look for the design displaced to one side with blank planchet showing.
$10 - $150Die Cuds and Breaks
Major die breaks at the rim create raised blobs of metal called cuds.
How to check: Run your finger along the rim feeling for any raised bumps or irregular areas.
$10 - $200 for major cudsQuick Checks
- 1942-1945 nickels: Large mint mark above Monticello = war nickel (35% silver)
- Check Monticello steps on the reverse for Full Steps variety
- 1943-P: Look for 3/2 overdate in the date
- All dates: Examine date and LIBERTY for doubled die varieties
- Feel the rim for die cuds or breaks
Frequently Asked Questions
What Jefferson nickel errors are most valuable?
The 1943-P 3/2 overdate ($50-$300), various doubled dies ($10-$200), and Full Steps varieties on key dates ($5-$500) top the list.
What are war nickels?
War nickels (1942-1945) contain 35% silver and have a large mint mark (P, D, or S) above Monticello on the reverse. They are worth $1-$3 for silver content alone.
How do I identify Jefferson nickel errors?
Use magnification on dates and lettering, check Monticello steps, and look for die cracks. Upload photos to ErrorHunt for instant AI analysis of all 67+ error types.
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