The value of a 1959 Jefferson nickel depends primarily on its condition and mint mark. While most circulated examples are worth slightly above face value (perhaps 6-10 cents), uncirculated specimens, especially those with a “D” mint mark (Denver), can command significantly higher prices, potentially reaching several dollars or more for examples graded in mint state by a professional numismatic service. The 1959 nickel itself is part of a long-running series featuring Thomas Jefferson on the obverse and Monticello on the reverse.
Understanding the factors that influence the value of these coins, such as condition, mint mark, and market demand, is crucial for collectors. Numismatics, the study of currency, offers valuable insights into historical trends, manufacturing processes, and the economic climate of specific eras. For example, the relative scarcity of high-grade 1959-D nickels contributes to their higher value compared to more common Philadelphia mint specimens. This knowledge empowers collectors to make informed decisions and appreciate the historical significance embedded within these seemingly ordinary coins.
This article will explore the nuances of 1959 nickel valuation in detail, covering topics like grading standards, identifying mint marks, and understanding market fluctuations. Further sections will delve into the history of the Jefferson nickel, providing context for its design and production, and offer guidance on proper storage and preservation techniques to maintain a collection’s value.
1. Condition
Condition significantly impacts a 1959 nickel’s value. A coin’s journey through circulation inevitably leaves marks: scratches, abrasions, and wear on the raised design elements. The Sheldon Coin Grading Scale, a widely accepted standard, categorizes coins from “Poor” (P-1) to “Mint State” (MS-70), offering a nuanced assessment of preservation. A circulated 1959 nickel exhibiting heavy wear might grade “Good” or “Very Good,” relegating its value to near face value. However, an uncirculated example, preserved with minimal handling since its minting, could achieve a much higher grade, such as MS-63 or above, significantly increasing its worth. For instance, a 1959-D nickel graded MS-65 might be worth several dollars or more, demonstrating how condition dramatically influences value.
Collectors prize pristine surfaces, sharp details, and original luster. Even minor imperfections, such as bag marks (small nicks or scratches from contact with other coins) or toning (changes in color due to environmental factors), can impact a coin’s grade and subsequent value. While some toning is considered aesthetically pleasing, excessive or unnatural discoloration can detract from desirability. Understanding the nuances of grading allows collectors to assess a coin’s condition accurately, providing a framework for determining fair market value. This knowledge is crucial when buying or selling, ensuring informed decisions and avoiding potential pitfalls.
Therefore, condition acts as a cornerstone of numismatic evaluation, directly correlating with a 1959 nickel’s worth. Recognizing the importance of preservation reinforces the need for proper storage and handling techniques. Protective holders, such as Mylar flips or certified coin slabs, safeguard against further damage, maintaining a coin’s condition and preserving its value over time. This careful attention to condition ensures that these historical artifacts remain tangible links to the past, their stories preserved not only in their design but also in their physical integrity.
2. Mint mark
The mint mark on a 1959 nickel signifies its production facility, a seemingly minor detail that holds significant weight in determining its value. These small letters, or their absence, provide a geographical context, linking the coin to a specific branch of the United States Mint. This identifier plays a crucial role in assessing rarity and desirability, directly influencing the coin’s market value.
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Absence of a Mint Mark
A 1959 nickel without a mint mark indicates its origin as the Philadelphia Mint. Typically, Philadelphia mint nickels are the most common, resulting in lower numismatic value compared to those from other mints. A circulated, mint mark-less 1959 nickel will likely be worth close to face value.
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“D” Mint Mark
The “D” mint mark denotes production at the Denver Mint. 1959-D nickels are generally scarcer than their Philadelphia counterparts, particularly in higher grades. This relative scarcity translates to a premium in value. An uncirculated 1959-D nickel in gem condition could be worth several dollars or considerably more, depending on the specific grade.
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Proof Coins
While not a mint mark in the traditional sense, 1959 proof coins, struck with specialized dies for collectors, carry their own distinction. These coins, produced at the Philadelphia Mint and lacking a mint mark, exhibit exceptional sharpness and finish. Their intended purpose for collection rather than circulation, combined with their limited mintage, often results in significantly higher values than regular issue coins.
The mint mark, therefore, serves as a crucial identifier, distinguishing between common and rare variations of the 1959 nickel. This seemingly small detail unlocks a deeper understanding of the coin’s history and production, providing a crucial link between its physical attributes and its value within the numismatic market. Identifying the mint mark allows collectors to accurately assess a 1959 nickel’s rarity and desirability, offering a foundation for informed valuation and strategic collecting practices. Coupled with an assessment of condition, the mint mark offers a powerful tool for understanding a 1959 nickel’s place within the broader numismatic landscape.
3. Market Demand
Market demand significantly influences the value of collectible items, including the 1959 nickel. While factors like condition and mint mark establish a baseline value, collector interest ultimately dictates the price a buyer is willing to pay. Fluctuations in demand, driven by trends, new discoveries, or broader economic conditions, can cause significant shifts in a coin’s market value over time. Understanding these dynamics is essential for collectors seeking to navigate the numismatic market effectively.
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Collector Trends
Current trends within the numismatic community directly affect demand. A surge in popularity for Jefferson nickels, perhaps fueled by a renewed interest in mid-20th-century coinage, could drive up prices across the board, including those for the 1959 series. Conversely, a shift in focus towards other denominations or historical periods could dampen demand and subsequently lower values.
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Rarity and Key Dates
Certain dates within a coin series, often due to lower mintage figures or unique historical context, become key dates highly sought after by collectors. While 1959 is not generally considered a key date for Jefferson nickels, the 1959-D, due to its lower mintage compared to the Philadelphia issue, often commands a premium. Increased demand for these scarcer variants can significantly inflate their value.
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Economic Conditions
Broader economic conditions, such as recessions or periods of economic growth, can influence the collectibles market. During economic downturns, discretionary spending may decrease, impacting demand and potentially lowering prices. Conversely, economic prosperity can lead to increased investment in collectibles, driving up demand and values.
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Availability and Auctions
The availability of specific coins on the market also plays a role. A sudden influx of high-grade 1959 nickels into the market could temporarily depress prices, while a scarcity of desirable examples might drive competitive bidding in auctions, leading to higher realized prices. Monitoring auction results and dealer inventories provides insights into current market trends and value fluctuations.
Therefore, market demand acts as a dynamic force, constantly shaping the value of a 1959 nickel. While inherent numismatic factors provide a foundation, the interplay of collector interest, economic trends, and market availability ultimately determines what a buyer is willing to pay. Recognizing these influences empowers collectors to make informed decisions, understand price fluctuations, and appreciate the dynamic nature of the numismatic market.
4. Grading Service
Professional grading services play a pivotal role in determining the value of a 1959 nickel, especially for uncirculated or high-grade examples. These services, such as Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) and Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC), provide expert and impartial assessments of a coin’s condition, encapsulating it in a tamper-evident holder with a designated grade. This process adds a layer of authenticity and standardization, significantly impacting market value. An ungraded uncirculated 1959-D nickel might be subject to skepticism regarding its true condition, potentially limiting its value. However, the same coin, graded MS-65 by PCGS, gains credibility and desirability, often commanding a substantially higher price. This price difference reflects the confidence instilled by professional grading, assuring potential buyers of the coin’s quality and authenticity.
The grading process involves meticulous examination by trained numismatists who evaluate the coin’s surfaces, strike quality, and overall preservation. The assigned grade, based on the 70-point Sheldon scale, provides a standardized language for communicating a coin’s condition, facilitating transparent transactions within the numismatic market. For example, a 1959 nickel graded MS-63 by NGC signifies a higher level of preservation than one graded AU-58, directly impacting their respective values. The grading service’s reputation for accuracy and consistency further reinforces the value proposition. Collectors often prefer certified coins, recognizing the added assurance of professional authentication and grading, which minimizes the risk of purchasing counterfeit or overgraded coins.
Therefore, utilizing a reputable grading service offers substantial benefits for collectors and investors. The assigned grade not only provides a clear indication of a coin’s condition but also enhances its marketability and liquidity. This standardization fosters trust within the numismatic community, facilitating smoother transactions and allowing for more accurate price comparisons. While grading fees represent an upfront cost, the potential increase in value for high-grade coins, coupled with the added security and peace of mind, often makes professional grading a worthwhile investment, particularly for rare or valuable specimens like high-grade 1959-D nickels.
5. Metal Composition
The metal composition of a 1959 Jefferson nickel plays a fundamental role in its intrinsic value. Composed of 75% copper and 25% nickel, these coins possess a metallic worth directly tied to the market prices of these constituent metals. This inherent value provides a baseline, especially for circulated or lower-grade examples. When the combined value of the copper and nickel content exceeds the face value of five cents, it establishes a minimum worth for the coin, often referred to as its “melt value.” This becomes particularly relevant when metal prices rise, potentially making even common-date nickels worth more than their face value for their metal content alone. Historically, there have been periods where rising metal prices have led to increased interest in melting down coins for their metal content, demonstrating the tangible connection between metal composition and numismatic value.
However, for numismatically significant 1959 nickels, such as high-grade or rare mint mark varieties, the value derived from rarity and condition far surpasses the melt value. For instance, an uncirculated 1959-D nickel graded MS-65 would command a price significantly higher than the value of its metal content, reflecting its numismatic premium. Nonetheless, understanding the metal composition remains crucial, providing a fundamental understanding of a coin’s intrinsic worth. This knowledge becomes particularly relevant in assessing damaged or heavily worn examples where numismatic value is diminished. Even in such cases, the metal composition provides a lower limit to the coin’s value, ensuring it retains worth beyond its face value in the context of fluctuating metal markets.
In summary, the metal composition of a 1959 nickel forms the basis of its intrinsic value. While numismatic premiums often drive the prices of desirable specimens, the metal content provides a crucial foundation, particularly for circulated or lower-grade examples. Recognizing this connection allows for a more comprehensive understanding of a coin’s worth, acknowledging both its numismatic and intrinsic metallic value. This dual perspective provides a nuanced approach to valuation, encompassing both the historical significance and the inherent material worth of the 1959 Jefferson nickel.
6. Historical Context
The historical context surrounding the 1959 Jefferson nickel contributes to its numismatic value, providing a narrative that extends beyond its metallic composition. Understanding the economic, political, and social climate of 1959 offers valuable insights into the coin’s production, circulation, and ultimate desirability among collectors. This historical backdrop enriches the numismatic appreciation, connecting the coin to a specific moment in time.
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Post-War Economic Expansion
The late 1950s marked a period of post-war economic expansion in the United States. This prosperity influenced coin production, with relatively high mintage figures for the 1959 nickel reflecting robust economic activity. While not exceptionally rare, understanding this context helps collectors appreciate the coin’s place within a larger economic narrative. The relatively stable economic climate likely contributed to the widespread circulation and availability of 1959 nickels across the country.
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The Cold War Era
The 1959 nickel emerged during the Cold War, a period of geopolitical tension between the United States and the Soviet Union. While not directly reflected in the coin’s design, this era’s anxieties and societal undercurrents indirectly shaped the environment in which the coin circulated. This historical backdrop adds another layer of depth to the coin’s story, connecting it to a significant period in global history. The relative stability of the nickel’s design, unchanged since 1938, perhaps reflects a desire for continuity and familiarity during a time of global uncertainty.
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Transition in Coinage
The 1959 nickel represents a period of relative stability in United States coinage. The Jefferson nickel design, introduced in 1938, remained unchanged, signifying a period of continuity. Understanding this context helps collectors appreciate the 1959 nickel as a representative example of mid-20th-century American coinage, bridging the gap between earlier designs and later changes in numismatic trends and production techniques.
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The Rise of Coin Collecting
The mid-20th century witnessed a growing interest in coin collecting as a hobby. This increased awareness of numismatics likely contributed to the preservation of uncirculated examples of the 1959 nickel, enhancing their rarity and value today. Recognizing this burgeoning collector culture provides insights into the reasons behind the survival of high-grade specimens, linking the coin’s value to the foresight of early collectors who recognized its potential numismatic significance.
Therefore, examining the 1959 nickel within its historical context enriches the numismatic experience. Connecting the coin to the economic, political, and social climate of its era provides a deeper understanding of its production, circulation, and the factors contributing to its desirability among collectors. This historical perspective adds layers of meaning beyond the coin’s inherent metallic value, transforming it from a simple piece of currency into a tangible artifact representing a specific moment in American history. By understanding this context, collectors can appreciate the 1959 nickel not just as a coin, but as a window into the past.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section addresses common inquiries regarding the value and characteristics of 1959 Jefferson nickels.
Question 1: Are all 1959 nickels valuable?
Most circulated 1959 nickels are worth slightly above face value due to their copper and nickel content. Significant value is typically associated with uncirculated, high-grade examples, especially those bearing a “D” mint mark.
Question 2: How can one determine the mint mark on a 1959 nickel?
The mint mark is located on the reverse side of the coin, to the right of Monticello. A “D” signifies the Denver Mint; the absence of a mint mark indicates the Philadelphia Mint. Proof coins, struck specifically for collectors, also lack a mint mark.
Question 3: Does cleaning a 1959 nickel increase its value?
Cleaning a coin almost always diminishes its value. The natural patina and surface preservation are crucial factors in numismatic assessment. Professional grading services penalize cleaned coins, significantly impacting their market worth.
Question 4: Where can one sell a valuable 1959 nickel?
Reputable coin dealers, online auction platforms specializing in numismatics, and coin shows offer avenues for selling valuable coins. Consulting with a professional numismatist is recommended to obtain an accurate appraisal before selling.
Question 5: What is the significance of the 1959-D nickel?
The 1959-D nickel, struck at the Denver Mint, is generally considered scarcer than the Philadelphia issue, particularly in higher grades. This relative rarity contributes to its increased numismatic value compared to the more common mint mark-less 1959 nickel.
Question 6: How should 1959 nickels be stored for preservation?
Non-PVC coin holders, such as Mylar flips or archival-quality coin albums, provide safe storage solutions. Avoid direct contact with other coins or abrasive surfaces. Maintaining a stable environment, free from excessive humidity and temperature fluctuations, helps preserve a coin’s condition and prevents long-term damage.
Understanding these frequently asked questions provides a foundation for assessing the value and historical significance of 1959 Jefferson nickels. Further research and consultation with numismatic experts can enhance one’s knowledge and facilitate informed collecting practices.
For those interested in delving deeper into the world of numismatics, resources like the “Red Book” (A Guide Book of United States Coins) and online numismatic forums offer extensive information and community engagement.
Tips for Determining a 1959 Nickel’s Value
These practical tips offer guidance for assessing and maximizing the potential value of a 1959 Jefferson nickel.
Tip 1: Examine the Coin Closely
Careful visual inspection under magnification reveals crucial details about a coin’s condition. Look for signs of wear, scratches, bag marks, and any unusual characteristics that might impact its grade. Note the sharpness of the details, especially on Jefferson’s hair and the Monticello building.
Tip 2: Identify the Mint Mark
Locate and identify the mint mark, if present, on the reverse of the coin. The presence or absence of a “D” mint mark significantly influences value, as Denver mint nickels from 1959 are generally scarcer.
Tip 3: Avoid Cleaning Coins
Resist the temptation to clean a 1959 nickel, even if it appears tarnished. Cleaning often damages the delicate surfaces, diminishing its value. Natural patina is generally preferred by collectors.
Tip 4: Consult Reputable Grading Services
For potentially valuable specimens, especially uncirculated examples, professional grading by services like PCGS or NGC provides an objective assessment of condition and authenticity, maximizing potential value.
Tip 5: Research Current Market Values
Regularly consult numismatic publications, online auction platforms, and dealer listings to understand current market trends and pricing for 1959 nickels. This knowledge helps determine fair market value and identify potential investment opportunities.
Tip 6: Store Coins Properly
Utilize appropriate storage methods, such as non-PVC coin holders, to protect 1959 nickels from environmental damage and preserve their condition. Proper storage safeguards long-term value.
Tip 7: Seek Expert Advice
When in doubt, consult experienced numismatists or reputable coin dealers for guidance on authentication, grading, and valuation. Professional opinions provide valuable insights for informed decision-making.
By following these tips, individuals can gain a deeper understanding of the factors influencing a 1959 nickel’s value and make informed choices regarding their collection or investment strategy. Careful examination, proper handling, and ongoing research contribute significantly to preserving and maximizing numismatic potential.
This information equips individuals to approach the numismatic market with confidence, whether buying, selling, or simply appreciating the historical significance of these coins.
How Much Is a 1959 Nickel Worth? – Conclusion
Determining the value of a 1959 nickel requires a multifaceted approach, encompassing factors beyond face value. Condition, mint mark, and market demand play crucial roles. While circulated examples hold minimal value beyond their metal content, uncirculated, high-grade specimens, particularly those with a “D” mint mark, can command substantial premiums. Professional grading services provide standardized assessments, enhancing market value and facilitating transparent transactions. Understanding the historical context, metal composition, and proper storage techniques further contributes to a comprehensive appreciation of these coins.
The seemingly simple question of a 1959 nickel’s worth opens a doorway into the complexities of numismatics. Beyond mere monetary value lies a rich tapestry of history, economics, and meticulous preservation. Engaging with these nuances transforms the 1959 nickel from a common coin into a tangible artifact, connecting collectors to a specific moment in American history. Further exploration of numismatic principles empowers informed collecting practices, fostering an appreciation for the historical significance embedded within these seemingly ordinary coins.
