Finding a 1964 Jefferson Nickel in your change might feel ordinary—but what if that small five-cent coin could be worth up to $32,000? That’s exactly what’s happening in today’s rare coin market. Collectors are paying big money for specific varieties and hidden rarities from 1964, turning a simple nickel into a surprising treasure. Here’s why this coin is exploding in value and how you can check if you have a jackpot in your pocket.
What Makes the 1964 Jefferson Nickel Special?
The Jefferson Nickel was introduced in 1938, replacing the Buffalo Nickel. It features Thomas Jefferson on the obverse and his home, Monticello, on the reverse.
In 1964, the U.S. Mint produced these coins in massive numbers using a copper-nickel alloy (not silver). Due to a national coin shortage, both the Philadelphia and Denver mints struck nearly 3 billion nickels combined.
The 1964 Minting Rush
A Massive Production Year
In 1964, demand for coins skyrocketed due to expanding vending machines and population growth. To catch up, the Mint:
- Produced 1+ billion nickels in Philadelphia
- Produced 1.8+ billion in Denver
- Continued stamping “1964” into early 1965
This huge output created plenty of common coins—but also some extremely rare varieties now worth serious money.
Why the 1964 Jefferson Nickel Is Valuable Today
The Mystery of the 1964 SMS Nickel
The biggest reason for the value boom is the discovery of the ultra-rare 1964 Special Mint Set (SMS) nickels. These coins feature:
- Sharp, squared-off edges
- Satin-like surfaces
- Exceptional strike details
Only around 20–50 examples are believed to exist, making them incredibly valuable. At recent auctions, 1964 SMS nickels in top condition have sold for $10,000 to over $32,000.
Full Steps = Big Money
Another valuable variety is the “Full Steps” (FS) nickel.
On the Monticello building, the stairs need to be:
- Crisp
- Unbroken
- Fully defined
If your 1964 nickel shows complete steps, it can jump from pocket change to hundreds of dollars—sometimes more in high grades.
How to Identify a Valuable 1964 Nickel
Want to check your own coins? Look for:
- Full, sharp steps on Monticello
- Smooth, satin-like luster (SMS traits)
- Lack of wear and scratches
- Mint mark “D” (Denver), which has more valuable Full Steps examples
Use a magnifying glass or coin loupe for best results.
Where to Search
- Old piggy banks
- Coin jars
- Bank rolls
- Estate sales or flea markets
Certification by PCGS or NGC can dramatically increase resale value.
1964 Nickel Value Chart
Here’s a quick value breakdown:
| Type | Condition | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|
| Common Circulated | Worn | $0.05 |
| Philadelphia MS65 | Uncirculated | $5–$20 |
| Denver Full Steps MS65 | Sharp Strike | $100–$500 |
| 1964 SMS MS68 | Ultra Rare | $7,500–$32,900 |
Quick Expert Tips
- Store coins in albums or sleeves—not loose jars.
- Look for mint errors like double dies or off-center strikes.
- Join collector communities like CoinTalk or Reddit Coins.
- Grade high-quality coins early to maximize value.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is every 1964 nickel valuable?
No. Most are only worth face value. Only Full Steps and SMS varieties are valuable.
How can I tell if my nickel is a 1964 SMS?
Look for satin surfaces, sharp rims, and superior detail. If in doubt, send it for professional grading.
Where can I sell a rare 1964 nickel?
eBay is good for fast sales, while Heritage Auctions or Stack’s Bowers bring the highest prices.
Are 1964 nickel errors worth money?
Yes. Some errors can bring $50 to $1,000 depending on rarity and clarity.
Does the 1964 nickel contain silver?
No. It is made of copper-nickel, unlike wartime nickels (1942–1945).
Conclusion
The 1964 Jefferson Nickel proves that real treasures can hide in everyday change. With ultra-rare SMS coins and valuable Full Steps varieties hitting record prices, now is the perfect time to check your coin stash. Grab a loupe, inspect those nickels, and you might discover a small coin worth a life-changing reward.