1979 Jefferson Nickel Value: P, D, and S Mint Guide
1979 Jefferson Nickel values range from face value to $4,500. Learn about Full Steps rarities, Type 2 proofs, and error coins worth hundreds.
The 1979 Jefferson Nickel is worth $0.05 to $4,500.
- Circulated (P or D): $0.05 – $0.50 (face value)
- Uncirculated standard: $1 – $450
- Full Steps designation: $7 – $4,500
- Type 2 Proof PR-70 DCAM: $200 – $2,530+
The 1979 nickel's value is driven by technical perfection: Full Steps designation on business strikes (fewer than 100 known for Philadelphia) and the scarce Type 2 "Clear S" proof variety in top grades.
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1979 Jefferson Nickel: A Market of Extremes
The 1979 Jefferson Nickel represents a fascinating paradox in modern numismatics. With over 789 million business strike coins produced at Philadelphia and Denver, the vast majority remain worth only their face value of five cents. Yet a microscopic fraction of these same coins—defined by technical perfection in their strike—command thousands of dollars from Registry Set collectors.
The 1979 Jefferson Nickel features Felix Schlag's designs of Thomas Jefferson and Monticello.
The value spectrum for 1979 nickels ranges from $0.05 for common circulated examples to $4,500 for the finest Full Steps business strikes, and up to $2,530 for perfect Type 2 proof specimens. This guide covers identification of valuable varieties, price ranges across all grades and mint marks, grading diagnostics including the critical Full Steps designation, authentication of problem coins, and the market for mint errors.
Identifying Your 1979 Jefferson Nickel
All 1979 Jefferson Nickels feature Felix Schlag's designs introduced in 1938. The obverse displays a left-facing profile of Thomas Jefferson with "LIBERTY" above, "IN GOD WE TRUST" to the left, and the date "1979" below the portrait. The reverse depicts Monticello, Jefferson's Virginia estate, with "MONTICELLO" inscribed below the building, "E PLURIBUS UNUM" above, "FIVE CENTS" at the bottom, and "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" around the rim.
Mint Mark Locations
The mint mark appears on the obverse, to the right of Jefferson's portrait, below the date. Three mint configurations exist for 1979:
The D mint mark appears to the right of Jefferson's portrait, below the date.
- 1979 (Philadelphia): No mint mark. This is the standard configuration for the highest-mintage issue (463,188,000 coins). Despite online claims, a "1979 nickel without a mint mark" is not rare—it is the most common variant.
- 1979-D (Denver): A "D" mint mark indicates Denver Mint production (325,867,672 coins).
- 1979-S (San Francisco): An "S" mint mark identifies proof coins struck for collectors at San Francisco (3,677,175 total).
Type 1 vs. Type 2 Proof Variety
The 1979-S proof exhibits a critical die variety that significantly impacts value. Late in 1979, the San Francisco Mint replaced a worn mint mark punch with a new, sharp one, creating two distinct types:
Type 1 'Filled S' (left) appears blob-like and indistinct; Type 2 'Clear S' (right) shows crisp, bulb-shaped definition.
- Type 1 "Filled S": The worn punch created an indistinct "S" with inner spaces appearing filled or blob-like. This is the common type, representing approximately 80-85% of the proof mintage.
- Type 2 "Clear S": The new punch produced a crisp, well-defined "S" with distinct bulb-shaped ends and clear inner spaces. This scarcer type represents an estimated 15-20% of production and commands significant premiums in top grades.
This same die punch replacement occurred with the 1979-S Susan B. Anthony Dollar, creating parallel Type 1/Type 2 varieties across multiple denominations and increasing collector interest.
Business Strike vs. Proof Distinction
Business strikes (P and D) were produced for circulation using a single strike on standard planchets. Proof coins (S) were struck multiple times on specially polished planchets, creating mirror-like fields and frosted devices. Proofs were never intended for circulation and were sold exclusively to collectors in proof sets.
1979 Jefferson Nickel Price Guide
The 1979 Jefferson Nickel market is sharply bifurcated. Standard business strikes in circulated or lower Mint State grades are worth face value to modest premiums. Value concentrates in two specific areas: Full Steps-designated business strikes (exceptionally rare for 1979) and Type 2 proof coins in perfect PR-70 DCAM grade. All values reflect problem-free, straight-graded coins certified by PCGS or NGC.
1979-P (No Mint Mark) Business Strike
Mintage: 463,188,000. This high-mintage Philadelphia issue is extremely common in all grades up to MS-65. PCGS notes it is "not scarce by any means" in standard grades.
| Grade | Value |
|---|---|
| G-4 to VF-20 | $0.05 – $0.20 |
| AU-50 to AU-58 | $0.20 – $0.50 |
| MS-60 to MS-62 | $1.00 – $2.00 |
| MS-63 | $5.00 |
| MS-65 | $30.00 |
| MS-66 | $55.00 |
| MS-67 | $115.00 – $158.00 |
💡 Collector Insight
The jump in value from MS-65 ($30) to MS-67 ($115-$158) reflects the scarcity of coins with minimal contact marks in this high-mintage issue.
1979-P (No Mint Mark) Full Steps Designation
This is the true collectible among 1979 Philadelphia nickels. PCGS estimates fewer than 100 total examples have been certified with Full Steps, with the finest known being MS-66 FS. PCGS specialist Jaime Hernandez notes it is "a very difficult date...to find with Full Steps details," reflecting poor striking quality at the Philadelphia Mint in 1979.
Full Steps (FS) designation requires at least five complete, separated steps visible on Monticello.
| Grade | Value |
|---|---|
| MS-61 FS | $7.00 |
| MS-63 FS | $15.00 |
| MS-65 FS | $225.00 |
| MS-66 FS | $2,115.00 |
Auction Record:$2,115 for MS-66 FS (Heritage Auctions, January 2016). No MS-67 FS examples have been certified by PCGS.
1979-D Business Strike
Mintage: 325,867,672. Similar to the Philadelphia issue, the 1979-D is extremely common in circulated and standard Mint State grades.
| Grade | Value |
|---|---|
| G-4 to VF-20 | $0.05 – $0.20 |
| AU-50 to AU-58 | $0.20 – $0.50 |
| MS-61 | $2.00 |
| MS-63 | $5.00 |
| MS-65 | $12.00 |
| MS-66 | $35.00 – $60.00 |
| MS-67 | $345.00 – $450.00 |
1979-D Full Steps Designation
The 1979-D with Full Steps represents one of the key modern Jefferson Nickel rarities. PCGS estimates fewer than 100 known examples in MS-66 FS. A significant market milestone occurred when the first MS-67 FS specimen appeared, shattering previous price records.
Grade progression from MS-63 (minor marks) to MS-66 (few marks) to MS-67 (virtually mark-free).
| Grade | Value |
|---|---|
| MS-61 FS | $3.00 |
| MS-63 FS | $6.00 |
| MS-65 FS | $24.00 |
| MS-66 FS | $282.00 |
| MS-67 FS | $4,500.00 |
Auction Record:$4,500 for MS-67 FS (eBay auction, November 2022). This single top-population coin defines the pinnacle of the 1979 business strike market.
1979-S Type 1 (Filled S) Proof
This is the common proof type, representing approximately 80-85% of the total proof mintage. Values are modest except in perfect PR-70 DCAM grade.
| Grade & Designation | Value |
|---|---|
| PR-69 (Standard/CAM) | $4.00 – $10.00 |
| PR-69 DCAM / UCAM | $9.00 – $25.00 |
| PR-70 DCAM / UCAM | $40.00 – $192.00 |
Auction Record:$1,763 for PR-70 DCAM (2013 auction).
1979-S Type 2 (Clear S) Proof
The scarce Type 2 variety, estimated at 15-20% of proof production, commands significant premiums in top grades. The combination of variety scarcity and perfect technical grade creates five-figure valuations.
| Grade & Designation | Value |
|---|---|
| PR-69 (Standard/CAM) | $5.00 – $15.00 |
| PR-69 DCAM / UCAM | $14.00 – $25.00 |
| PR-70 DCAM / UCAM | $200.00 – $2,530.00+ |
Auction Record:$2,530 for PR-70 DCAM Type 2 (PCGS CoinFacts, 2008 auction).
⚠️ The "70-Cliff" Phenomenon
Notice the exponential value increase from PR-69 DCAM to PR-70 DCAM for both proof types. This "70-cliff" reflects Registry Set competition where collectors pay extreme premiums for absolute technical perfection.
Grading the 1979 Jefferson Nickel
The 1979 Jefferson Nickel's value is highly sensitive to grade, particularly for Full Steps-designated business strikes and top-grade proofs. Understanding grade distinctions is essential for accurate valuation.
Circulated coins (left) show heavy wear on high points; Mint State coins (right) retain full luster.
Circulated Grades (G-4 through AU-58)
Circulated 1979 nickels show varying degrees of wear from commerce. In Good-4 (G-4), Jefferson's portrait is heavily worn with minimal detail in hair and cheek. The date remains visible but weak. On the reverse, Monticello's architectural details are worn smooth. In About Uncirculated (AU-50 to AU-58), light wear appears on the highest points—Jefferson's cheekbone and hair above the ear—but most design details remain sharp. Traces of original mint luster may survive in protected areas.
Mint State Grades (MS-60 through MS-70)
Mint State coins show no wear from circulation but are differentiated by contact marks, luster quality, and strike sharpness. MS-60 to MS-62 coins display numerous bag marks and contact marks, particularly on Jefferson's cheek and Monticello's columns. Luster may be diminished or uneven. MS-63 coins show fewer and smaller marks, with moderate eye appeal. MS-65 examples have minimal contact marks visible only under magnification, strong luster, and good overall eye appeal. MS-66 and MS-67 coins are nearly flawless with exceptional luster and virtually no distracting marks. MS-67 represents the practical ceiling for business strikes without Full Steps designation.
The Full Steps Designation
The Full Steps (FS) designation is the critical value driver for 1979 business strikes. PCGS assigns FS to Mint State Jefferson Nickels when at least five complete and separated steps are visible on the Monticello portico on the reverse. Any interruption, joining, or fusing of the steps caused by weak strike, contact marks, or planchet flaws disqualifies the coin. NGC uses a tiered system with 5FS (five full steps) or 6FS (six full steps) designations. The extreme rarity of FS-designated 1979 nickels—fewer than 100 known for both Philadelphia and Denver—indicates widespread striking problems at both mints in 1979. For detailed information on Full Steps standards, see APMEX's guide to Full Steps designation.
Proof Grades (PR-60 through PR-70)
Proof coins are graded on a similar 60-70 scale but with different criteria. All proofs should show complete strike details including full steps. Grading focuses on surface preservation and the quality of the cameo contrast. PR-69 proofs may have one or two minor imperfections such as tiny contact marks or hairlines. PR-70 represents absolute technical perfection with no imperfections visible even under 5x magnification. The Deep Cameo (DCAM) or Ultra Cameo (UCAM) designation indicates maximum frosted-on-mirror contrast between devices and fields, commanding the highest premiums.
💡 Strike vs. Preservation
For 1979 nickels, distinguish between strike quality (how well the dies impressed the design) and surface preservation (condition after leaving the mint). A coin may be MS-66 in preservation but lack Full Steps due to weak strike. Conversely, a coin with Full Steps may have enough contact marks to grade only MS-64 FS.
Die Varieties Worth Collecting
Beyond the major Type 1/Type 2 proof distinction, the 1979 Jefferson Nickel has one documented minor business strike variety and numerous misattributed "varieties" that collectors should understand.
1979-S Type 2 "Clear S" Proof
This is the premier variety for the year. Late in 1979, the San Francisco Mint replaced its worn "S" mint mark punch with a new, sharp punch. The new punch created a crisp, well-defined "S" with distinct bulb-shaped ends and clear inner spaces. This Type 2 variety represents an estimated 15-20% of the total proof mintage and commands significant premiums, particularly in PR-70 DCAM grade where specimens have sold for over $2,500.
Attribution diagnostics: Examine the "S" mint mark under magnification. Type 1 shows a blob-like, indistinct "S" with filled inner spaces. Type 2 displays sharp definition with clean, open spaces and bulb-shaped serif ends. The difference is readily apparent when comparing certified examples side by side.
1979-D RPM-001 (D/D Southeast)
This is a documented Repunched Mint Mark (RPM) variety listed in The Jefferson Nickel RPM Book and recognized by CONECA. The variety shows a minor secondary "D" to the southeast of the primary mint mark, visible under magnification. Variety Vista identifies this as "D/D Southeast."
Attribution diagnostics: Under 10x magnification or higher, examine the "D" mint mark for evidence of a secondary, fainter "D" impression slightly southeast of the primary mark. The doubling is subtle and may appear as a slight shadow or notch extending from the primary letter.
Market value: This is a minor variety not listed in primary PCGS or NGC price guides. Values are minimal, typically $5 to $35 for raw, uncertified examples, driven primarily by specialist collectors on online platforms.
Misattributed "Varieties" to Avoid
Numerous online listings claim valuable "DDO" (Doubled Die Obverse) or "DDR" (Doubled Die Reverse) varieties for 1979. While CONECA and Variety Vista maintain listings for minor doubled die varieties (see Variety Vista DDR listings), there are no major, widely collected doubled die varieties for this year comparable to famous examples like the 1939 FS-801 DDR.
Most claimed "doubled dies" are actually worthless machine doubling (also called mechanical doubling or shelf doubling), which is not a true die variety. Machine doubling occurs when a coin shifts slightly during striking, creating a flat, shelf-like doubling without the raised, rounded doubling characteristic of true hub doubling. Collectors should not pay premiums for any such coin unless it is certified by a major third-party grading service (PCGS, NGC, or ANACS) with a specific variety attribution number.
⚠️ The "Filled D" Confusion
The 1979-S "Filled S" is a die variety caused by a worn mint mark punch. The 1979-D "Filled D" is a common struck-through-grease error where debris filled the "D" in the die. The "Filled D" error is extremely common and carries no significant numismatic value despite speculative online listings.
Collectible Mint Errors
Genuine, dramatic mint errors are collectible and carry premiums over face value. Error values depend heavily on the type, severity, and eye appeal. All values listed are for certified, problem-free examples.
Off-center strikes show partial design with visible blank planchet area; value depends on percentage and date visibility.
Wrong Planchet Errors
The most valuable errors occur when a 1979 nickel design is struck on a planchet intended for a different denomination. The classic wrong planchet error for this year is a 1979 nickel struck on a 3.1-gram copper cent planchet. The resulting coin appears copper-colored instead of silver-colored and weighs significantly less than the standard 5.0 grams. These dramatic errors typically sell for $175 to $300 when certified.
Off-Center Strikes
Off-center strikes occur when the planchet is not properly centered between the dies during striking. Minor off-center strikes (10-20% off-center) sell for $5 to $30. Major off-center strikes (40-90% off-center) with the full date visible command $50 to $125 or more. The key to value is (1) the percentage off-center and (2) whether the date and mint mark remain fully visible on the struck portion.
Double Strikes and Brockages
Double strike errors occur when a coin is struck twice, often with rotation between strikes creating an overlapping design. A brockage is a special type of error showing a mirrored, incuse (sunken) image on one side, created when a coin sticks to a die and acts as a die itself for subsequent strikes. Values range from $65 to $300 or more depending on severity and eye appeal. A documented example is a 1979-D with a 65% off-center double strike graded MS-65, representing a significant error.
Clipped Planchets
Clipped planchet errors show a missing portion of the coin, either curved (from overlapping planchet blanks) or straight (from the edge of the metal strip). These errors are relatively common and typically sell for $35 to $50 for certified examples with good eye appeal.
Lamination Errors
Lamination errors occur when a piece of the planchet's metal flakes or peels off, either before or after striking. These can appear as missing metal patches or as loose flakes still partially attached. Minor lamination errors sell for $10 to $25.
💡 Error Certification Matters
Error coin values assume certification by a reputable third-party grading service specializing in errors (PCGS, NGC, or ANACS). Raw, uncertified errors typically sell for 30-50% of certified values due to authentication concerns.
Authentication and Problem Coin Detection
For 1979 Jefferson Nickels, authentication focuses less on detecting counterfeits—which are not economically viable for this denomination—and more on identifying problem coins that have been cleaned, damaged, or otherwise altered. All numismatic values in this guide apply only to problem-free, straight-graded coins.
The most common issue destroying numismatic value is cleaning. A cleaned coin loses its original cartwheel luster, the distinctive pattern of light that flows radially across an uncirculated coin's surface as it is rotated. Abrasive cleaning or polishing leaves fine, parallel scratches called hairlines across the coin's surface, readily visible under magnification. The coin may appear unnaturally bright or "too shiny" with an artificial gleam, or conversely may have a dull, lifeless surface texture where the metal has been etched by chemicals. Any coin showing these characteristics is considered damaged by serious collectors and grading services and has no collectible numismatic value beyond its face or melt value.
Cleaned coins show hairlines, unnatural brightness, and loss of original luster.
Beyond cleaning, watch for environmental damage such as corrosion spots or dark patches, mechanical damage including rim dings and edge nicks, and post-mint alterations such as artificial toning or attempts to enhance wear patterns. The copper-nickel alloy of the 1979 nickel is generally durable and not prone to the toning issues seen with silver coins, but exposure to harsh chemicals or improper storage can still cause surface problems.
When to seek professional certification: Any 1979 nickel that appears to be MS-65 or higher should be submitted to PCGS or NGC for authentication and grading, particularly if you suspect it might qualify for Full Steps designation. For proof coins, certification is essential for PR-69 or PR-70 grades and mandatory for establishing Type 1 versus Type 2 attribution. Valuable mint errors should always be certified, as authentication of genuine errors versus post-mint damage requires expert analysis. For detailed grading standards, consult PCGS Grading Standards.
Proper Preservation and Storage
The 75% copper, 25% nickel alloy used in 1979 Jefferson Nickels is highly durable and not prone to the toning or corrosion issues commonly seen with copper or silver coins. However, proper storage remains crucial for maintaining condition and value.
Any high-value coin—Full Steps-designated business strikes, Type 2 proofs, or coins graded MS-66/PR-69 or higher—should remain encapsulated in its PCGS or NGC holder. These sonically-sealed slabs provide optimal protection against environmental damage and handling. Never attempt to remove a coin from its certified holder, as doing so voids the guarantee and exposes the coin to potential damage.
For uncertified Mint State coins or raw proof coins, use inert, archival-safe holders. Acceptable options include 2x2 Mylar flips (ensure they are "non-PVC" Mylar, not vinyl), individual acrylic capsules sized for nickels (21mm), or archival coin albums with inert pages. Critically, avoid all holders containing PVC (polyvinyl chloride). PVC breaks down over time and releases chemicals that cause green, sticky residue on coin surfaces—damage that permanently destroys numismatic value.
Store coins in a stable environment away from temperature extremes, high humidity, and direct light exposure. Handle coins only by their edges, never touching the obverse or reverse surfaces with bare fingers, as skin oils contain acids and salts that can cause spotting over time. For extended storage, consider placing holders in airtight containers with silica gel packets to control moisture.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is my 1979 Jefferson Nickel worth?
Standard circulated 1979 nickels from Philadelphia or Denver are worth face value ($0.05) to about $0.50. Uncirculated examples without Full Steps designation range from $1 to $450 depending on grade and mint. The key to significant value is the Full Steps designation (up to $4,500 for 1979-D MS-67 FS) or, for proofs, the Type 2 "Clear S" variety in perfect PR-70 DCAM grade (up to $2,530). Without these special attributes, most 1979 nickels have minimal collector value.
How do I identify the mint mark on my 1979 nickel?
Look on the obverse (front) of the coin, to the right of Jefferson's portrait, just below the date. If you see a "D," the coin was struck at Denver. If you see an "S," it's a proof coin from San Francisco. If there is no mint mark at all, the coin was struck at Philadelphia. The absence of a mint mark does not make a 1979 nickel rare—it's actually the most common variant with 463 million produced.
What's the difference between Type 1 and Type 2 1979-S proofs?
Type 1 proofs have a "Filled S" mint mark that appears indistinct and blob-like due to a worn die punch. Type 2 proofs have a "Clear S" mint mark with crisp, well-defined edges and distinct bulb-shaped ends, created when the mint replaced the worn punch with a new one late in 1979. Type 2 is the scarcer variety (estimated 15-20% of mintage) and commands significant premiums, especially in PR-70 DCAM grade where specimens sell for over $2,500 compared to under $200 for Type 1.
What does "Full Steps" mean and why is it valuable?
Full Steps (FS) refers to the steps of Monticello visible on the reverse. PCGS requires at least five complete, uninterrupted steps to assign the FS designation. Only coins graded MS-60 or higher can receive this designation. Full Steps is exceptionally rare for 1979 because both mints had poor striking quality that year—fewer than 100 examples are known for each mint. This rarity drives values up to $2,115 for 1979-P MS-66 FS and $4,500 for 1979-D MS-67 FS. For more details on Full Steps standards, see APMEX's Full Steps guide.
Should I get my 1979 nickel professionally graded?
Professional grading is worthwhile only for coins with significant potential value. Submit your coin if: (1) it appears to be MS-65 or higher and might qualify for Full Steps designation, (2) it's a proof coin that appears to be PR-69 or PR-70 quality (especially Type 2), or (3) it has a dramatic, genuine mint error. Grading costs $20-$50 per coin depending on service level, so the coin's potential value must justify the expense. Standard circulated or low-grade Mint State coins are not worth certifying.
How should I store and handle my nickel collection?
Handle nickels only by their edges to avoid fingerprints and skin oils that can cause spotting. Store certified coins in their original PCGS or NGC holders. For raw coins, use archival-safe holders such as non-PVC Mylar 2x2 flips or acrylic capsules. Never use holders containing PVC (polyvinyl chloride), which breaks down and damages coin surfaces. Store coins in a stable environment away from extreme temperatures, high humidity, and direct light. The copper-nickel alloy is durable but still benefits from proper storage to prevent environmental damage.
Are "no mint mark" 1979 nickels valuable?
No. Despite claims in some online videos and forums, a 1979 Jefferson Nickel without a mint mark is not rare or valuable. The "no mint mark" coin is the Philadelphia Mint issue, which had the highest mintage of the year at 463,188,000 coins. This is the standard, common variant. The "P" mint mark was not used on Jefferson Nickels until 1980, so the absence of a mint mark is normal and expected for 1979 Philadelphia coins. These are worth face value unless they have Full Steps designation or are in exceptional uncirculated grades.
Price Guide Methodology
All values in this guide are compiled from multiple authoritative numismatic sources including NGC Price Guide, PCGS CoinFacts, Gainesville Coins retail data, and documented auction results from Heritage Auctions and other major auction houses. Price ranges reflect actual market activity for problem-free, straight-graded coins certified by PCGS, NGC, or ANACS. Auction records are cited with dates and sources where available.
Coin values fluctuate based on precious metal prices, collector demand, and Registry Set competition. The extreme premiums for Full Steps-designated business strikes and PR-70 proofs reflect competition among high-end collectors building PCGS Registry Sets. Values listed here represent market conditions as of publication and should be verified against current market data when buying or selling. For the most current information on specific varieties and grades, consult PCGS CoinFacts and Variety Vista.
This guide is provided for educational purposes. Coin values represent estimates based on documented sales. Actual prices realized may vary based on individual coin quality, market conditions, and venue. The author and publisher are not responsible for any financial decisions made based on this information.
