1957 Jefferson Nickel Value Guide

The 1957 Jefferson Nickel is a staple of mid-century American numismatics, representing the post-war return to the standard copper-nickel composition. Designed by Felix Schlag, this coin is highly collectible for its depiction of Monticello and its role in the long-running series that replaced the Buffalo Nickel in 1938.

What affects the value of 1957 Jefferson Nickel?

• The presence of a 'Full Steps' designation on Monticello significantly increases value among professional graders.
• Overall strike quality and the absence of contact marks or 'bag marks' from the minting process.
• The specific mint of origin, with Philadelphia (no mint mark) and Denver ('D') having different mintage totals.
• The degree of original mint luster remaining on the surface of the copper-nickel alloy.

How to Identify 1957 Jefferson Nickel?

• Verify the 1957 date located on the obverse to the right of Thomas Jefferson's profile.
• Check for the 'D' mint mark on the reverse, located to the right of Monticello, indicating the Denver mint.
• Confirm the metallic composition is the standard 75% copper and 25% nickel, as silver was only used from 1942 to 1945.
• Look for the designer's initials 'FS' which may appear on later strikes but are often faint on 1957 circulation issues.

History of 1957 Jefferson Nickel

The Jefferson Nickel was introduced in 1938, replacing the Buffalo Nickel. Designed by Felix Schlag, it features Thomas Jefferson on the obverse and his home, Monticello, on the reverse. During World War II, from 1942 to 1945, the composition was changed to 56% copper, 35% silver, and 9% manganese to conserve nickel for the war effort, indicated by a large mint mark above Monticello. After the war, the original copper-nickel composition was restored.