Price Guide for 1988 Nickel Variants
This guide presents price ranges for 1988 Nickel variants from three sources: eBay sales, third-party auctions, and PCGS guides. Values are shown for various conditions, allowing collectors to compare across different market segments. Price estimates may vary between sources, especially for rarer variants.
1988-D Nickel, FS (Regular Strike)
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $6.00 - $588.00
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eBayUncirculated: $2.00 - $3,500.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $2.00 - $3,500.00
1988-P Nickel (Regular Strike)
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $184.00Uncirculated: $11.00 - $69.00
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eBayUncirculated: $2.41 - $3,450.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $1.00 - $60.00
1988-D Nickel (Regular Strike)
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $6.00 - $1,610.00
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eBayUncirculated: $4.20 - $228.85
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $1.00 - $250.00
1988-P Nickel, FS (Regular Strike)
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $6.00 - $360.00
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eBayUncirculated: $2.25 - $255.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $2.00 - $3,500.00
1988-S Nickel, DCAM (Proof)
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $6.00 - $823.00
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eBayUncirculated: $0.76 - $384.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $3.00Uncirculated: $3.00 - $70.00
Design and Specifications of the 1988 Nickel
The 1988 Jefferson Nickel continues the long-standing design introduced in 1938. This year marked the 50th anniversary of the Jefferson Nickel, although no special commemorative versions were issued for circulation. The coin reflects the ongoing tribute to Thomas Jefferson, the third President of the United States, and his historic home, Monticello.
| Weight | 5.0 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 21.21 mm |
| Mint Marks | P, D |
| Composition | 75% copper, 25% nickel |
| Obverse Design | Portrait of Thomas Jefferson facing left, designed by Felix Schlag |
| Reverse Design | Monticello, Jefferson's home, designed by Felix Schlag |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
Condition plays a crucial role in the value of 1988 Nickels. While circulated examples are extremely common and typically worth only face value, uncirculated coins in high grades (MS65 and above) can command a premium. The coin's condition is assessed based on factors such as:
- Strike quality: Well-struck coins with full details are more desirable.
- Luster: Coins with original mint luster are valued higher.
- Surface preservation: Absence of marks, scratches, or other imperfections increases value.
- Toning: Natural, attractive toning can enhance appeal to some collectors.
For proof coins, cameo and deep cameo contrast between frosted devices and mirrored fields can significantly increase value, especially in high grades.
Mintage: 769,814,780
Rarity Scale: Common
Circulation Status: Widely Circulated
Preservation Rarity: Common in most grades, but scarce in gem (MS65+) condition
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: Low, primarily of interest to date collectors
Mintage: 663,771,960
Rarity Scale: Common
Circulation Status: Widely Circulated
Preservation Rarity: Common in most grades, but scarce in gem (MS65+) condition
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: Low, primarily of interest to date collectors
Mintage: 3,262,948
Rarity Scale: Common for proof coins
Circulation Status: Not Intended for Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Common in most grades, but scarce in perfect (PR70) condition
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: Low to Moderate, mainly for proof set collectors
While the 1988 Nickel is generally common, certain factors can influence its value:
1. Full Steps: Coins showing complete steps on Monticello are more valuable.
2. Die Varieties: Although no major varieties are known, any discovered could be of interest.
3. Mint State Grades: MS67 and above are scarce and valuable.
4. Proof Grades: PR70 examples, especially with deep cameo contrast, command a premium.
Historical significance as the 50th anniversary of the Jefferson Nickel design may add slight interest for some collectors, but does not significantly impact value for most examples.
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