1939 Jefferson Nickel: The Story Behind a Rare Coin and Other Highly Valuable Coins One such coin, the 1939 Jefferson Nickel, has sold for an astounding $350,000 at auction. This highly sought-after coin captivates collectors due to its rarity and distinct features. Additionally, three other rare coins could be hiding in your pocket today and are worth millions.
1939 Jefferson Nickel: History and Features
First introduced in 1938, the Jefferson Nickel features a portrait of President Thomas Jefferson on the obverse and his residence, Monticello, on the reverse. However, the 1939 edition stands out due to specific minting errors that significantly enhance its value.
Key Variations of the 1939 Jefferson Nickel
| Type | Description |
|---|---|
| 1939 Double Monticello | A rare minting error where the Monticello image appears doubled, making it highly attractive to collectors. |
| 1939 ‘Reverse of 1940’ | Features the reverse design of the 1940 nickel, making it unique and valuable. |
| 1939 ‘Full Steps’ | Coins with fully defined Monticello steps are considered premium collectibles. |
If this coin is well-preserved and features any of these rare attributes, it could be worth up to $350,000.
Three Other Rare and Valuable Coins
Besides the 1939 Jefferson Nickel, the following coins are also incredibly rare and worth substantial amounts:
1. 1893-S Morgan Silver Dollar
One of the rarest and most valuable coins in U.S. history, the 1893-S Morgan Silver Dollar is a true collector’s gem.
Characteristics:
- Mint Mark: “S” indicating it was minted in San Francisco.
- Design: Lady Liberty on the obverse, an eagle clutching arrows and an olive branch on the reverse.
- Composition: 90% silver, 10% copper.
With a limited mintage of only 100,000 coins, its rarity has driven auction prices as high as $2 million.
2. 1913 Liberty Head Nickel
This coin is surrounded by mystery and controversy, with only five known examples in existence.
Features:
- Design: Lady Liberty on the front, Roman numeral “V” (five) on the back.
- History: Illegally minted after production had switched to the Buffalo Nickel in 1913.
In 2018, one of these coins sold for an incredible $3.7 million at auction, making it one of the most expensive U.S. coins ever.
3. 1943 Copper Penny
During World War II, the U.S. Mint produced pennies primarily from steel due to a copper shortage. However, a few copper pennies were mistakenly struck, making them highly valuable today.
Features:
- Composition: Unlike the standard steel pennies, these rare versions were struck in copper.
- Identification: Copper pennies have a distinct color and are non-magnetic, unlike their steel counterparts.
A 1943 copper penny has fetched up to $840,000 at auction.
How to Identify Rare Coins
If you want to determine whether you own a rare and valuable coin, follow these steps:
- Check for minting errors – Look for doubling, missing letters, or unusual design features.
- Pay attention to dates and mint marks – Certain years and mints produce rarer coins.
- Examine the coin’s condition – Coins in pristine condition hold greater value.
- Use a magnifying glass – Tiny details can indicate rare features.
Conclusion
Coin collecting is not just an enjoyable hobby but also a gateway to history and potential fortune. The thrill of discovering a rare coin and understanding its historical importance makes it all the more exciting. Whether it’s the 1939 Jefferson Nickel, the 1893-S Morgan Silver Dollar, the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel, or the 1943 Copper Penny, these coins hold immense value.
If you’re a collector or interested in numismatics, take a closer look at your collection—who knows, you might have a hidden treasure worth millions!
FAQs
What makes the 1939 Jefferson Nickel valuable?
Unique errors such as Double Monticello, Reverse of 1940, and Full Steps significantly increase its worth.
How can I tell if I have a 1943 Copper Penny?
Check its color (copper instead of steel) and test if it’s magnetic (copper pennies are non-magnetic).
Why is the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel so rare?
Only five were illegally minted, making it one of the most valuable U.S. coins.
Where can I sell rare coins?
Reputable auction houses like Heritage Auctions and Stack’s Bowers, coin dealers, or online marketplaces like eBay.
What tools do I need to inspect rare coins?
A magnifying glass, a scale for weighing, and reference books or grading guides can help assess rarity and condition.