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The 1964-D Jefferson Nickel is worth anywhere from $0.05 in circulated condition to over $6,000 for rare specimens in pristine condition. While most of these coins found in pocket change are only worth their face value, certain mint errors and high-grade “Full Steps” designations can make them quite valuable to collectors.
| Condition / Grade | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| Circulated (Average Wear) | $0.05 – $0.10 |
| Uncirculated (Mint State 60-63) | $1.00 – $5.00 |
| Gem Quality (Mint State 65+) | $15.00 – $50.00 |
| Full Steps (FS) Designation | $100 – $6,000+ |
Why the 1964-D Jefferson Nickel is Unique
The year 1964 was a transitional period for the United States Mint. While silver was being phased out of dimes and quarters, the nickel maintained its 75% copper and 25% nickel composition. However, 1964 saw a massive production surge. To identify if you have a “D” mint mark coin, simply look at the reverse (back) of the coin.
If you find a small “D” located to the right of Monticello, it means your coin was produced at the Denver Mint. Because over 1.7 billion of these coins were struck in Denver that year, they are incredibly common today. If you are unsure about the specifics of your find, using a top coin identifier app can help you distinguish between common business strikes and rare varieties.
Most people using the CoinKnow app discover that their 1964-D nickels are “pocket change” quality. However, the sheer volume of production led to many worn-out dies, which in turn created some of the most famous and sought-after errors in the Jefferson series.
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Grading the 1964-D Jefferson Nickel and Its Impact on Price
When determining the 1964-D Jefferson Nickel value, the “grade” or physical condition is the most important factor. Collectors use a 70-point scale to determine quality. A coin that has been rattled around in a vending machine for 50 years will rarely be worth more than five cents.
However, a coin that was tucked away in a piggy bank or an original mint roll and looks “brand new” is a different story. These are called Mint State (MS) coins. Investors often look for 1964-D Jefferson Nickel MS prices to see if their high-quality specimen is worth the cost of professional grading.
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| Grade Label | Description | Market Value |
|---|---|---|
| Good (G4) | Heavily worn; outlines are visible but flat. | $0.05 |
| Fine (F12) | Moderate wear; some detail in hair and pillars. | $0.10 |
| Extremely Fine (EF45) | Light wear on high points; sharp details. | $0.25 |
| Mint State (MS65) | Strong luster; very few marks or scratches. | $15 – $30 |
The “Full Steps” Holy Grail for Denver Nickels
For serious Jefferson Nickel collectors, the phrase “Full Steps” (FS) is the key to high valuations. On the reverse of the coin sits Monticello, Thomas Jefferson’s historic home. At the base of the building is a set of stairs. On most 1964-D nickels, these stairs are a blurry smudge because the dies were overused.
A “Full Steps” 1964-D Nickel is one where five or six steps are clearly visible and separated by distinct lines. Because it is so rare to find a 1964-D with a sharp strike, an MS65 Full Steps coin can sell for $200, while an MS67 Full Steps version can fetch thousands of dollars at auction.
Your Old Coin Could Be Valuable!
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Before getting too excited, remember that even a tiny scratch across the stairs disqualifies the coin from the FS designation. You can use CoinKnow to zoom in on your coin’s reverse and compare it to known FS examples. Detailed data on 1964-D nickel value trends suggests that these high-grade coins are becoming increasingly popular among registry set collectors.
Valuable Errors and Varieties to Look For
Because the 1964-D production was so rushed, many “error” coins escaped the mint. These are the treasures that everyday Americans can find in their change. One of the most common but interesting types is the “Repunched Mint Mark” (RPM). This occurred when the “D” was punched into the die twice, resulting in a slightly doubled appearance.
Other notable errors include “Die Cracks,” where the metal of the die physically broke, leaving raised lines on the coin’s surface. While minor die cracks only add a few dollars to the value, a major “Cud” (a large blob of metal near the rim) can make the coin worth $50 or more to specialized collectors.
Your Old Coin Could Be Valuable!
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| Error Type | Rarity | Potential Value |
|---|---|---|
| Repunched Mint Mark (D over D) | Moderate | $5 – $20 |
| Off-Center Strike (10%+) | Rare | $25 – $100 |
| Struck on a Penny Planchet | Very Rare | $300 – $800 |
Why You Should Keep Your 1964-D Nickels
You might be wondering if it is even worth keeping a coin that is usually only worth five cents. From a strictly financial standpoint, most 1964-D nickels are not “investments.” However, they represent a unique moment in US history. This was the last year the mint mark was placed on the reverse for a several-year period, as mint marks were removed from 1965 to 1967 to discourage hoarding.
Furthermore, as older coins are pulled from circulation and melted or lost, even common dates like the 1964-D begin to slowly rise in value in high grades. By using CoinKnow, you can keep a digital inventory of your coins and track if the market for 1960s coinage begins to heat up.
If you happen to find a roll of 1964-D nickels in an attic or a safe, don’t just spend them! Unopened rolls can sell for $5 to $10, which is significantly higher than their $2 face value. Collectors are always looking for “unsearched” rolls in hopes of finding that elusive Full Steps gem that could be worth a small fortune.
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How to Identify and Store Your Nickels
To accurately assess your 1964-D Jefferson Nickel, you need good lighting and a magnifying glass (or a high-quality smartphone camera). Look first at the date and the “D” mint mark. Then, flip the coin over and check the “steps” on Monticello. If you see any shine or “luster” remaining on the coin, it is likely an uncirculated piece and should be handled with care.
Never clean your coins! This is the number one mistake made by beginners. Cleaning a coin with polish or even soap and water can microscopic scratches that permanently destroy its numismatic value. A cleaned MS65 coin can drop in value to the price of a common circulated coin instantly.
Instead, store your 1964-D nickels in “flips” (cardboard and plastic holders) or plastic tubes. This prevents the coins from rubbing against each other and preserves the delicate steps on the reverse. Proper storage ensures that if you ever decide to sell, you receive the maximum possible 1964-D Jefferson Nickel price.
FAQ
Q: Is the 1964-D Nickel made of silver?
A: No. Unlike dimes, quarters, and half dollars from 1964, the Jefferson Nickel was never made of silver (except for the “War Nickels” minted from 1942-1945). The 1964-D is made of a cupro-nickel alloy (75% copper and 25% nickel).
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Q: Where is the mint mark on a 1964-D Jefferson Nickel?
A: The “D” mint mark is located on the reverse side of the coin. Look to the right of the building (Monticello), between the building and the rim, near the base of the pillar.
Q: Why are there so many 1964 nickels?
A: The US Mint produced billions of nickels in 1964 to combat a national coin shortage. In fact, they continued to strike coins with the “1964” date well into 1965 and 1966 to discourage collectors from hoarding them.
Q: How can I tell if my 1964-D nickel is a “Full Steps” coin?
A: Look at the stairs at the base of Monticello on the back of the coin. If you can count 5 or 6 distinct, horizontal lines with no interruptions from scratches or weak striking, you may have a Full Steps (FS) coin. These require professional grading to confirm.