1953 Proof Jefferson Nickel
Strike Type
Coin Details
Value Estimates
Values as of May 2026 — estimates reflect typical grades (G-4 through MS-63). Coins in lower or exceptional grades may fall outside this range.
Auction Record
$2,530 PR69 02-23-2014 Great Collections
Description
The 1953 Proof Jefferson Nickel is a proof nickel struck at the Philadelphia Mint, part of the Jefferson Nickels Original Design 1938-2003 series. With a mintage of 128,800, this is an extremely rare issue — ranked 0th of 3 mint variants by mintage, with 0% of production. The obverse features Thomas Jefferson facing left and the reverse displays Monticello, Thomas Jefferson's Virginia estate. Minted during the post-war economic boom, the final era of silver circulating coinage in the United States before the Coinage Act of 1965. As a proof issue, this coin was struck multiple times on specially prepared polished planchets using polished dies, producing mirror-like fields and frosted design elements prized by collectors. Struck at the original U.S. Mint facility, in continuous operation since 1792. Estimated market value is approximately $56. Struck in 75% copper, 25% nickel, weighing 5 grams, 21.2 mm in diameter, with a plain edge. Cataloged as PCGS #4185.
External References
Error Varieties(6)
1953 Doubled Die Obverse WDDO-001
1953 Doubled Die Reverse WDDR-001
1953PR-5DEO-001T Trail Die Obverse
1953PR-5DEO-002T Trail Die Obverse
1953PR-5DER-001T Trail Die Reverse
