Have you ever wondered if that old nickel in your change jar could be worth more than five cents? When it comes to the 1955 Jefferson nickel, you might be surprised at what you discover. Let's embark on a numismatic journey to explore the fascinating world of this particular coin and uncover its potential worth.
The History and Significance of the 1955 Jefferson Nickel
The Jefferson nickel, first minted in 1938, holds a special place in American coinage. Designed by Felix Schlag, the coin features a profile of Thomas Jefferson on the obverse and his iconic home, Monticello, on the reverse. The year 1955 was particularly significant for this series, as it marked the tail end of what many collectors consider the "classic" period of Jefferson nickels.
Design Elements of the 1955 Nickel
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Obverse:
- Thomas Jefferson's profile facing left
- "IN GOD WE TRUST" to the left of Jefferson
- "LIBERTY" and the date "1955" to the right, separated by a star
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Reverse:
- Monticello, Jefferson's Virginia home
- "E PLURIBUS UNUM" above the building
- "FIVE CENTS" and "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" below
Minting Statistics and Specifications
Understanding the minting details is crucial for appreciating the 1955 nickel's value. Here's a breakdown of the production numbers:
| Mint Location | Mintage | Mint Mark |
|---|---|---|
| Philadelphia | 7,888,000 | None |
| Denver | 74,464,100 | D |
| Proof (Phila) | 378,200 | None |
Technical Specifications:
- Composition: 75% copper, 25% nickel
- Weight: 5.0 grams
- Diameter: 21.2 mm
- Thickness: 1.95 mm
- Edge: Plain
Factors Influencing the Value of a 1955 Nickel
Several key factors determine a 1955 nickel's worth:
- Mint Mark: Denver (D) or no mint mark (Philadelphia)
- Condition: Circulated vs. uncirculated
- Grading: Professional grading scale from Poor (P-1) to Perfect Mint State (MS-70)
- Full Steps: Presence of clear steps on Monticello
- Errors and Varieties: Specific minting errors can significantly increase value
Comprehensive 1955 Nickel Value Guide
1955 No Mint Mark (Philadelphia)
| Condition | Value Range |
|---|---|
| Circulated | $0.05 to $1 |
| Uncirculated (MS-60 to MS-63) | $2 to $10 |
| Choice Uncirculated (MS-64 to 65) | $15 to $30 |
| Gem Uncirculated (MS-66+) | $40 to $100+ |
1955-D (Denver)
| Condition | Value Range |
|---|---|
| Circulated | $0.05 to $1 |
| Uncirculated (MS-60 to MS-63) | $2 to $8 |
| Choice Uncirculated (MS-64 to 65) | $12 to $25 |
| Gem Uncirculated (MS-66+) | $75 to $200+ |
1955 Proof
| Grade | Value Range |
|---|---|
| Proof-60 to 63 | $10 to $20 |
| Proof-64 to 65 | $25 to $40 |
| Proof-66+ | $50 to $200+ |
The "Full Steps" Premium: A Game Changer
One of the most exciting aspects of collecting 1955 nickels is the potential for "Full Steps" specimens. This designation refers to the clarity and completeness of the steps leading up to Monticello on the reverse.
What Constitutes "Full Steps"?
- Five or six clearly defined steps visible on Monticello
- Indicates a high-quality strike and minimal wear
Full Steps Value Increase:
| Grade | Potential Value |
|---|---|
| MS-65 Full Steps | $500 to $1,000+ |
| MS-66 Full Steps | $2,000 to $5,000+ |
| MS-67 Full Steps | $10,000+ |
According to the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS), an MS-67 Full Steps 1955 nickel sold for an astounding $18,800 in a 2006 auction, demonstrating the immense premium placed on top-quality specimens.
Notable 1955 Nickel Errors and Varieties
1. 1955-D Over S
- Description: D mint mark struck over an S (San Francisco) mint mark
- Value: $50 to $500+, depending on condition
- Rarity: Approximately 1 in 20,000 1955-D nickels
2. Double Die Errors
- Description: Doubling of design elements due to misaligned die strikes
- Value: $20 to $100+, depending on prominence and condition
- Areas to Check: Look for doubling in the lettering, particularly on "LIBERTY" and the date
3. Off-Center Strikes
- Description: Design not centered on the planchet
- Value: $10 to $100+, depending on severity and whether the date is visible
- Collectibility: Off-center strikes of 5-10% can be found with some searching, while more dramatic examples are quite rare
How to Identify a Valuable 1955 Nickel
- Check the mint mark: Look for a "D" below Monticello for Denver-minted coins
- Examine condition: Use a 10x magnifying glass to assess wear and luster
- Inspect Monticello steps: Count the visible steps; full steps are key
- Look for errors: Check for doubling, off-center strikes, or unusual features
- Consider professional grading: For potentially high-value coins, professional grading can provide authentication and precise valuation
Tips for Collecting 1955 Nickels
- Focus on quality: Higher-grade coins generally hold and increase value better
- Hunt for Full Steps: These coins command significant premiums
- Learn about varieties: Familiarize yourself with known errors and varieties
- Build a complete set: Aim for Philadelphia, Denver, and proof versions
- Properly store your coins: Use archival-quality holders to preserve condition
Where to Find 1955 Nickels
- Local coin shops
- Online marketplaces (eBay, Heritage Auctions, etc.)
- Coin shows and conventions
- Bank rolls (though finding high-grade specimens is unlikely)
- Estate sales and auctions
The Future of 1955 Nickel Collecting
As we look to the future, several trends suggest that the 1955 nickel may continue to be a coin of interest for collectors:
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Increasing Scarcity: As time passes, fewer high-grade specimens remain in circulation, potentially driving up values for well-preserved examples.
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Growing Interest in Vintage US Coins: There's a resurgence of interest in mid-20th century coinage among younger collectors, which could boost demand for 1955 nickels.
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Full Steps Premium: The premium for Full Steps examples continues to grow, making these coins particularly attractive to serious collectors.
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Error Coin Popularity: With more collectors focusing on error coins, varieties like the 1955-D Over S may see increased attention and value.
Conclusion: Is the 1955 Nickel Worth Collecting?
While not the rarest date in the Jefferson nickel series, the 1955 nickel offers a compelling opportunity for collectors at all levels. From the thrill of hunting for Full Steps examples to the potential of discovering valuable errors, these coins provide both accessibility and the possibility of significant rewards.
For the patient collector willing to search through rolls or attend coin shows, building a set of 1955 nickels can be a rewarding and potentially profitable endeavor. Remember, condition is key, and the thrill of the hunt is often as valuable as the coins themselves.
Whether you're a seasoned numismatist or just starting your coin collecting journey, the 1955 Jefferson nickel is a piece of American history worth exploring. It serves as a tangible connection to the past and a potentially valuable addition to any collection. So, the next time you come across a 1955 nickel, take a closer look – you might just be holding a small treasure in your hand.
