2019 Jefferson Nickel Value Guide: P, D, S Mint Prices
2019 Jefferson Nickel values range from face value to $700+ for top MS-68FS specimens. Business strikes common; value concentrated in Full Steps designation.
The 2019 Jefferson Nickel is worth $0.05 to $700+ depending on mint mark, grade, and strike quality.
- Circulated: Face value ($0.05)
- Uncirculated (standard MS-63 to MS-67): $1 – $30
- Full Steps designation (MS-67FS to MS-68FS): $40 – $700+
- Proof (2019-S PR-69 to PR-70 DCAM): $13 – $35
Over 99% of 2019 nickels are worth face value; significant premiums exist only for certified Full Steps business strikes and perfect proof specimens.
What's Your 2019 Nickel Worth?
Select your coin's mint mark and condition to get a value estimate.
Focus on choosing the right sales channel to maximize your return.
Expected: ()
2019 Jefferson Nickel: Modern Rarity Through Strike Quality
The 2019 Jefferson Nickel represents a fascinating paradox in modern numismatics: despite a combined business strike mintage exceeding one billion coins, virtually all numismatic value concentrates in a microscopically small population of top-tier specimens. These coins carry the coveted "Full Steps" (FS) designation, confirming exceptional strike quality at the base of Monticello's stairs. For collectors, the 2019 nickel market divides sharply—circulated and standard uncirculated examples trade at or near face value, while certified MS-67FS and higher specimens command premiums reaching into the hundreds of dollars.
The 2019 Jefferson Nickel features the Return to Monticello design introduced in 2006.
This comprehensive guide covers all 2019-dated issues: the Philadelphia (P) and Denver (D) business strikes, and the San Francisco (S) proof strike. We analyze market values across the grade spectrum, explain the Full Steps designation, document known die varieties and mint errors, and provide authentication guidance. Additionally, we examine an important milestone: as of late 2025, the 2019 nickel's intrinsic metal value has surpassed its five-cent face value—a development with long-term implications for the series.
Identifying Your 2019 Jefferson Nickel: Mint Marks and Design Features
The 2019 Jefferson Nickel is part of the "Return to Monticello" design series, which began in 2006 following the completion of the Westward Journey commemorative program. All 2019 nickels share the same fundamental design elements, differentiated only by mint mark and strike type.
Obverse Design
Designed by Jamie Franki, the obverse features a modern, forward-facing portrait of President Thomas Jefferson based on the 1800 Rembrandt Peale life study. The word "LIBERTY" appears to the right of the bust, rendered in a script based on Jefferson's own handwriting—a distinctive feature of this design. The date "2019" is positioned at the lower center. The reverse designer's initials, "FS" for Felix Schlag, appear discreetly below the bust, a position they have occupied since 1966.
Reverse Design
The reverse displays the classic depiction of Monticello, Jefferson's Virginia estate, designed by Felix Schlag. This design originally debuted in 1938 and was restored in 2006. The building's front façade shows five pillars and, critically for grading purposes, a set of steps at the base. The inscriptions "MONTICELLO," "E PLURIBUS UNUM," "FIVE CENTS," and "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" complete the design.
The mint mark (P, D, or S) appears on the obverse, to the right of Jefferson's bust and below the date.
Mint Mark Locations
The mint mark on all 2019 Jefferson Nickels is located on the obverse, to the right of Jefferson's bust and below the date. Three mint marks exist for 2019:
- P — Philadelphia Mint (business strike, 567,854,400 minted)
- D — Denver Mint (business strike, 527,040,000 minted)
- S — San Francisco Mint (proof strike only, 1,061,558 minted)
⚠️ Common Misconception: No 2019-W Nickel Exists
Widespread confusion exists due to the 2019-W Quarter program ("Great American Coin Hunt") and bonus 2019-W Penny included in mint sets. However, no Jefferson Nickel was struck at the West Point Mint in 2019. The first-ever W-mint nickels were issued in 2020 as bonus coins in proof sets. Any offering of a "2019-W Nickel" is an error or misidentification.
Strike Types
Business Strikes (2019-P, 2019-D): Produced for circulation with a single strike and satin finish. These coins exhibit varying strike quality, with only a small percentage achieving the Full Steps designation.
Proof Strikes (2019-S): Specially manufactured for collectors using polished dies and multiple strikes. Proof nickels feature deeply mirrored fields and frosted devices, creating strong visual contrast. The 2019-S was included in both the standard U.S. Mint Proof Set and the Silver Proof Set (though the nickel itself remained cupronickel composition).
2019 Jefferson Nickel Price Guide: Market Values by Mint and Grade
The 2019 Jefferson Nickel market exhibits extreme stratification. Over 99% of the population—all circulated examples and most uncirculated coins—trade at or minimally above face value. Significant premiums emerge only for coins certified by PCGS or NGC in top grades, particularly those carrying the Full Steps (FS) designation for business strikes or Deep Cameo (DCAM) designation for proofs.
2019-P Jefferson Nickel (Business Strike)
Mintage: 567,854,400
With a mintage exceeding half a billion coins, the 2019-P is ubiquitous in circulation. Raw examples in average uncirculated condition retail for $0.99 to $2.00 from dealers—a price reflecting sorting and handling costs rather than numismatic scarcity. The market transforms entirely for Full Steps specimens, where rarity is genuine and demand from registry set collectors is strong.
Grade progression: MS-63 shows scattered marks, MS-67 has minimal contact, MS-68 is virtually flawless.
| Grade | Standard MS Value | MS Full Steps (FS) Value |
|---|---|---|
| AU-50 to MS-62 | $0.10 – $0.20 | $5 – $10 |
| MS-63 | $1 – $3 | $10 – $15 |
| MS-65 | $8 | $20 – $30 |
| MS-66 | $11 | $30 – $45 |
| MS-67 | $20 – $30 | $40 – $60 |
| MS-68 | $50 – $75 | $200 – $350+ |
Auction Record: $201 for MS-68FS (PCGS CoinFacts, May 2019). PCGS population for MS-67FS is 224 coins; MS-68FS examples remain exceedingly rare.
2019-D Jefferson Nickel (Business Strike)
Mintage: 527,040,000
The 2019-D follows the same market pattern as the P-mint. NGC census data reveals that standard (non-FS) strikes are of very high quality: of 468 coins submitted, 94% graded MS-67. This indicates that a standard MS-67 coin is extremely common and holds minimal premium. The rarity—and thus the value—concentrates exclusively in the Full Steps designation. PCGS population data for 2019-D FS is strikingly small: 216 coins in MS-67, 3 coins in MS-67+, and only 3 coins in MS-68. This extreme rarity drives strong auction results.
| Grade | Standard MS Value | MS Full Steps (FS) Value |
|---|---|---|
| AU-50 to MS-62 | $0.10 – $0.20 | $5 – $10 |
| MS-63 | $1 – $3 | $10 – $15 |
| MS-65 | $6 – $8 | $20 – $30 |
| MS-66 | $5 – $9 | $30 – $45 |
| MS-67 | $20 – $30 | $50 – $75 |
| MS-67+ | $30 – $40 | $225 – $300+ |
| MS-68 | $60 | $400 – $700+ |
Auction Record: $237 for MS-67+FS (PCGS CoinFacts, July 2019). The PCGS population for MS-68FS is only 3 coins, making it a top-population rarity.
2019-S Jefferson Nickel (Clad Proof)
Mintage: 1,061,558
The 2019-S Proof Nickel was not sold individually but was included in the 2019 U.S. Mint Proof Set and the 2019 U.S. Mint Silver Proof Set. It is critical to note that the nickel included in the Silver Proof Set retained the standard 75% copper / 25% nickel cupronickel composition—there is no 2019-S Silver Jefferson Nickel. As a modern proof with a mintage exceeding one million, raw examples carry minimal premiums. Value depends on achieving perfect grades (PR-69 or PR-70) with the Deep Cameo (DCAM) or Ultra Cameo (UC) designation.
Proof coins feature deeply mirrored fields and frosted devices, creating strong contrast.
| Grade | Standard Proof (PR) | Deep Cameo (DCAM/UC) |
|---|---|---|
| PR-68 | $5 – $8 | $8 – $12 |
| PR-69 | $8 – $12 | $13 – $20 |
| PR-70 | $15 – $20 | $18 – $35 |
The supply of top-grade 2019-S proofs is high. PR-69 DCAM examples retail for as low as $13, and perfect PR-70 DCAM specimens sell for $18 to $35. Raw proofs in original U.S. Mint packaging trade for under $2.
Grading the 2019 Jefferson Nickel: Understanding Full Steps and Condition
Grading 2019 Jefferson Nickels involves assessing surface preservation, luster quality, and—most critically for business strikes—strike completeness. The "Full Steps" (FS) designation is the single most important value driver, transforming common high-grade coins into rarities worth hundreds of dollars.
The Full Steps Designation: Definition and Rarity
"Full Steps" is a special designation applied by PCGS and NGC to business strike Jefferson Nickels that exhibit exceptional strike quality. It is not used for proofs, as proof strikes receive multiple blows and are expected to have complete steps by default. The designation confirms that the coin was produced by fresh, perfectly aligned dies and struck with full pressure.
Full Steps (FS) coins show five complete, uninterrupted steps at the base of Monticello—a rare strike quality.
PCGS Full Steps Criteria: PCGS uses a binary "FS" designation, requiring that five separate steps at the base of Monticello's stairs are clearly visible and distinct. Any weakness, blending, or interruption caused by a weak strike, die wear, or a contact mark disqualifies the coin.
NGC Full Steps Criteria: NGC offers two designations: "5FS" for coins with five full, uninterrupted steps, and "6FS" for coins with six (the maximum possible) full steps. This system differentiates between exceptional and perfect strikes.
The rarity of 2019 Full Steps nickels stems from high-speed, high-volume production. Modern minting prioritizes quantity over quality, resulting in prevalent strike softness. The few perfectly struck examples become rare technical-grade specimens, and demand from registry set collectors (who compete for the highest-graded sets) creates massive price premiums.
Check Jefferson's cheek and eyebrow on the obverse, and Monticello's pillars and steps on the reverse.
Standard Mint State Grading (Non-FS Coins)
For coins without the Full Steps designation, grading focuses on surface quality and luster. Key diagnostic areas include:
- Obverse: Jefferson's cheek, eyebrow, and the fields surrounding the portrait. Look for contact marks, hairlines, or disruptions to the original luster.
- Reverse: The pillars of Monticello, the roof, and the open fields. Strike weakness at the steps is common and accepted for non-FS coins, but the surfaces must be clean.
MS-63 to MS-64: Noticeable contact marks on high points, but no major distractions. Luster may be slightly diminished.
MS-65 to MS-66 (Gem): Minimal contact marks, strong original luster. Marks are small and located away from focal areas.
MS-67 to MS-68 (Superb Gem): Virtually mark-free surfaces with full, vibrant luster. At MS-68, only a single trivial mark may be present under magnification.
Proof Grading (2019-S)
Proof nickels are graded on the quality of their mirrored fields and frosted devices. Modern proofs are expected to have complete steps as a matter of production.
PR-68: Minimal contact marks or haze on fields. Deep Cameo contrast is standard.
PR-69: Virtually flawless fields and devices, with only microscopic imperfections under magnification.
PR-70: Absolute perfection. No flaws visible even under 5x magnification. Fields are completely pristine.
💡 Grading Tip
When submitting 2019 nickels for grading, only send coins with a realistic chance of FS designation (for business strikes) or PR-69/70 (for proofs). Standard MS-65 and MS-66 coins without Full Steps carry minimal premiums insufficient to cover grading fees.
Die Varieties: Minor Doubled Die Reverse (DDR) Attributions
No major, widely collected die varieties are known for the 2019 Jefferson Nickel series. However, several minor Doubled Die Reverse (DDR) varieties have been documented by specialists and cataloged in the Wexler attribution system.
Known 2019-P DDR Varieties
Multiple minor DDR varieties exist for the 2019-P nickel, designated as WDDR-007, WDDR-008, WDDR-037, and WDDR-056. All known examples are classified as Class VIII (Tilted Hub Doubling), a type of doubling that results from slight die misalignment during the hubbing process.
Identification Diagnostics
Unlike dramatic doubled dies such as the famous 1955 DDO Lincoln Cent, the 2019-P DDR varieties are subtle and require 5x to 10x magnification to confirm. The primary diagnostic is a slight extra line, bar, or shelf, most commonly observed "below the upper door frame on the center door above the steps" of Monticello. Positive identification is confirmed using die markers—specific die scratches, gouges, or dots unique to that die pairing. For example, WDDR-007 is identified by a curved die gouge to the right of Jefferson's nose on the obverse.
Market Value and Collectibility
These minor varieties are not listed in major PCGS or NGC price guides and do not command significant premiums at major auctions. They are primarily of interest to dedicated variety specialists. In raw, uncirculated condition, these varieties typically trade for $1 to $10. A certified, high-grade example (e.g., MS-67 FS) might command a speculative premium of $50 to $100 to a dedicated variety collector, but this is not supported by public auction data.
ℹ️ Collector Note
If you believe you have found a 2019-P DDR variety, confirmation requires comparison with documented examples and identification of specific die markers. Online variety databases and specialist forums are the best resources for attribution assistance.
Mint Errors: Types, Identification, and Market Values
No unique or famous major errors are specifically associated with the 2019 nickel mintage. However, as with any coin series with a mintage in the billions, all common types of minting errors exist and can be found by diligent searchers. Error coin values depend heavily on three factors: severity (more dramatic errors command higher prices), condition (uncirculated errors are worth substantially more than circulated), and date/mint mark visibility (errors are most desirable when the date and mint mark remain fully legible).
Off-center strikes, clipped planchets, and broadstrikes are the most frequently encountered errors.
Off-Center Strikes
Off-center strikes occur when the planchet is not properly aligned with the dies during the striking process, resulting in a partial design impression. The coin is "off-center" by a certain percentage.
- 10-20% Off-Center (Date Legible): $15 – $30
- 30-60% Off-Center (Date Legible): $40 – $100
Errors with the date and mint mark fully visible are most desirable. Off-center strikes exceeding 60% or lacking a visible date typically bring lower premiums.
Broadstrikes
A broadstrike occurs when the coin is struck outside the retaining collar that normally imparts the reeded edge. The result is a coin with an expanded diameter, a flat and spread-out design, and a plain (smooth) edge. Broadstrike 2019 nickels in uncirculated condition typically sell for $20 to $50.
Clipped Planchets
Clipped planchet errors occur when the planchet-cutting process overlaps, resulting in a planchet missing a curved or ragged portion. The struck coin appears "incomplete." Values range from $10 to $25 for uncirculated examples, with larger clips commanding higher prices.
Lamination Errors
Lamination errors occur when a fragment or "peel" of metal flakes off the surface of the coin, often due to impurities or improper alloy mixing. These errors are generally valued at $5 to $15 in uncirculated condition.
Brockages (Rare)
A brockage occurs when a coin has a "mirror" incuse (sunken) image of the design on one side, caused by a previously struck coin adhering to the die. Brockages are dramatic and highly collectible. An MS-66 example of a modern Jefferson Nickel brockage can sell for $150 to $1,800+, depending on clarity and condition.
Wrong Planchet Errors (Extremely Rare)
Wrong planchet errors occur when a coin is struck on a planchet intended for a different denomination. For example, a 2019-P nickel design struck on a copper cent planchet (1.9 grams instead of 5.0 grams) would be a major error. Such errors are exceedingly rare and can command $1,500 to $3,000+ at auction.
| Error Type | Severity / Identification | Value (Unc.) |
|---|---|---|
| Off-Center Strike | 10-20% (Date legible) | $15 – $30 |
| Off-Center Strike | 30-60% (Date legible) | $40 – $100 |
| Broadstrike | Out-of-collar, plain edge | $20 – $50 |
| Clipped Planchet | Curved or ragged clip | $10 – $25 |
| Lamination Error | Metal peel/flake | $5 – $15 |
| Brockage | Mirror incuse image | $150 – $1,800+ |
| Wrong Planchet | Struck on cent planchet | $1,500 – $3,000+ |
Authentication and Problem Coin Detection
Counterfeiting of 2019 business strike nickels is not a significant concern due to their negligible base value. However, collectors should remain vigilant when purchasing certified high-grade coins, particularly 2019-S proofs or claimed Full Steps specimens.
The most likely authenticity concern is an "added mint mark," where an 'S' is affixed to a 2019-P or 2019-D coin to create a fraudulent proof. Genuine 2019-S proofs are only struck as proofs and exhibit deeply mirrored fields and frosted devices—characteristics impossible to replicate by altering a business strike. High-quality counterfeit proofs are typically identified by mushy details, incorrect mint mark style, or a lack of proper die polish lines characteristic of genuine proofs. When in doubt, purchase only certified coins from PCGS or NGC.
Cleaned coins show hairlines, unnatural luster, and dull appearance—avoid these problem coins.
The more common authentication challenge involves identifying cleaned, polished, or damaged coins. Any coin that has been cleaned, polished, or suffered physical damage (scratched, bent, corroded) is considered a "problem coin." Top-tier grading services will not assign a numeric grade to such coins, instead returning them in a "Details" holder with a notation such as "UNC Details - Cleaned." Problem coins are generally avoided by serious collectors and have no predictable numismatic value, often reverting to just above face value.
Visual Cues for Cleaned Cupronickel Coins:
- Hairlines: The most common sign of improper cleaning. These are fine, parallel scratches across the coin's fields and devices, visible under magnification, caused by wiping with an abrasive cloth or polish.
- Unnatural Luster: A cleaned coin will have a dull, lifeless, or "processed" shine. The original "cartwheel" luster—a visual effect caused by microscopic flow lines from the strike—is destroyed by polishing.
- Residue and Toning: Look for a hazy, dull appearance, or chalky polish residue built up around the edges of letters and the date. Unnatural, splotchy purple or blue toning can also indicate a chemical dip.
When purchasing raw (uncertified) 2019 nickels for potential Full Steps designation, examine the steps at the base of Monticello under magnification. Genuine FS coins should show five distinct, uninterrupted steps with sharp separation. Coins with weak strikes or contact marks in this area will not qualify, regardless of overall grade.
Preservation and Storage Best Practices
Modern cupronickel coins like the 2019 Jefferson Nickel are chemically stable and resistant to environmental corrosion when properly stored. The primary preservation goal is preventing physical damage—contact marks, scratches, and fingerprints—that can significantly reduce grade and value.
Business Strikes (2019-P, 2019-D): Uncirculated 2019 nickels should be stored in inert, archival-quality 2x2 Mylar flips or acid-free coin tubes. Avoid PVC-containing flips, as PVC can cause a green, corrosive residue over time. Handle coins only by their edges, and never touch the obverse or reverse surfaces with bare fingers—oils from skin can cause permanent toning or spotting. For coins being considered for professional grading, store them in a clean, stable environment with low humidity (30-50% relative humidity is ideal) to prevent toning.
Proof Strikes (2019-S): Proof nickels must be preserved in their original, unblemished U.S. Mint capsules. The deeply mirrored fields are extremely delicate and susceptible to microscopic hairlines, fingerprints, and environmental toning. Never remove a proof coin from its capsule unless absolutely necessary. If handling is required, use cotton gloves and handle only by the edge. Store proof coins in their original government packaging or in padded coin albums designed for encapsulated coins.
⚠️ Critical Warning
Never clean or polish a coin. Cleaning destroys original surfaces and luster, rendering the coin a "problem coin" with no numismatic value. Even gentle wiping can cause hairlines. If a coin appears dirty or tarnished, leave it as-is or consult a professional conservator. In numismatics, original surfaces—even if toned or imperfect—are always preferable to cleaned surfaces.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is my 2019 Jefferson Nickel worth?
Most 2019 nickels are worth face value ($0.05). Circulated coins and standard uncirculated examples carry no premium. Significant value emerges only for certified coins in top grades: MS-67FS to MS-68FS business strikes can be worth $40 to $700+, while PR-69 to PR-70 DCAM proofs sell for $13 to $35. The vast majority of 2019 nickels you find in pocket change or coin rolls are worth exactly five cents.
How do I identify the mint mark on my 2019 nickel?
The mint mark is located on the obverse (front), to the right of Jefferson's bust and below the date. Look for a small letter: "P" for Philadelphia, "D" for Denver, or "S" for San Francisco (proof only). Use magnification if necessary. If no mint mark is visible, verify you're looking in the correct location—all 2019 nickels have mint marks.
What does "Full Steps" mean on a Jefferson Nickel?
"Full Steps" (FS) is a special designation applied by PCGS and NGC to business strike Jefferson Nickels that exhibit exceptional strike quality. It requires that five (or six, for NGC's 6FS) separate, complete, uninterrupted steps are visible at the base of Monticello on the reverse. Weak strikes, die wear, or contact marks on the steps disqualify a coin. Full Steps coins are rare and command substantial premiums—often 5x to 20x the value of non-FS coins in the same grade.
Is there a 2019-W Jefferson Nickel?
No. No Jefferson Nickel was struck at the West Point Mint in 2019. Confusion arises from the 2019-W Quarter program ("Great American Coin Hunt") and the bonus 2019-W Penny included in U.S. Mint sets. The first-ever W-mint Jefferson Nickels were issued in 2020 as bonus coins in proof sets. Any offering or listing of a "2019-W Nickel" is an error, misidentification, or potential fraud.
Should I get my 2019 nickel professionally graded?
Professional grading is only worthwhile for coins with realistic potential for top grades. For business strikes, this means coins that appear to have Full Steps and are in at least MS-66 condition. For proofs, only submit coins with pristine, untouched fields that could achieve PR-69 or PR-70. Grading fees typically range from $20 to $50 per coin, so the coin's potential value must justify the cost. Standard circulated or lightly uncirculated 2019 nickels should not be submitted for grading.
How do I properly store and handle my 2019 nickels?
Store business strike nickels in inert 2x2 Mylar flips or acid-free tubes. Store proof nickels in their original U.S. Mint capsules. Always handle coins by the edges only, never touching the obverse or reverse surfaces. Avoid PVC-containing holders. Store in a stable environment with 30-50% relative humidity. Never clean, polish, or wipe coins—this destroys original surfaces and value.
What is the melt value of a 2019 nickel?
As of late 2025, the intrinsic metal value of a 2019 Jefferson Nickel is approximately $0.06, based on its composition of 75% copper and 25% nickel. This represents a 21% premium over the coin's $0.05 face value. However, melting U.S. coins is illegal, and refining costs would exceed this small premium. The melt value is primarily an economic curiosity and a long-term factor to monitor as commodity prices fluctuate.
Are there any valuable errors or varieties for 2019 nickels?
Several minor doubled die reverse (DDR) varieties exist for the 2019-P nickel, cataloged in the Wexler system as WDDR-007, WDDR-008, WDDR-037, and WDDR-056. These are subtle, require magnification to confirm, and carry minimal premiums ($1-$100) primarily among specialists. Common mint errors like off-center strikes, clipped planchets, and broadstrikes can be found and are worth $5 to $100+ depending on severity and condition. Major errors like brockages and wrong planchet strikes are rare but can command $150 to $3,000+.
Research Methodology and Market Data Sources
This analysis compiles data from authoritative numismatic sources including PCGS CoinFacts population reports and auction archives, NGC Price Guide and census data, commodity market pricing from Money Metals and KITCO, U.S. Mint official mintage figures and press releases, and verified retail pricing from APMEX, eBay certified sales, and specialized dealers. Auction records cited include specific dates, grades, and sources to ensure transparency.
Price ranges reflect actual market transactions from 2019 through late 2025. Values for modern coins fluctuate based on precious metal spot prices, collector demand, and registry set competition. The 2019 Jefferson Nickel market is particularly volatile at high grades due to low populations and strong competition among advanced collectors. Prices listed represent typical market values; exceptional eye appeal, pedigree, or first-strike designations can command premiums above the stated ranges.
Readers are encouraged to consult current auction archives, dealer inventories, and grading service population reports for the most up-to-date market information. This guide was last updated in November 2025.
