1965 SMS Jefferson Nickel
Strike Type
Coin Details
Auction Record
$7,050 SP67 01-09-2013 Heritage Auctions
Description
The 1965 SMS Jefferson Nickel is a Special Mint Set (SMS) nickel struck at the Philadelphia Mint, part of the Jefferson Nickels Original Design 1938-2003 series. With a mintage of 2.4 million, this is an extremely rare issue — the scarcer of two mint variants, with 2% of total production. The obverse features Thomas Jefferson facing left and the reverse displays Monticello, Thomas Jefferson's Virginia estate. Struck after the transition from silver to clad coinage, as the Mint adapted to modern production methods and record-breaking mintages. This Special Mint Set (SMS) coin was produced from 1965 to 1967 as a substitute for proof coins during the transition from silver to clad coinage, featuring a distinctive satin-like finish between business strike and proof quality. Struck at the original U.S. Mint facility, in continuous operation since 1792. Auction record: $7,050 SP67 01-09-2013 Heritage Auctions. Struck in 75% copper, 25% nickel, weighing 5 grams, 21.2 mm in diameter, with a plain edge. Cataloged as PCGS #94197.
