1979 Jefferson Nickel
Base
About This Coin
The 1979 Jefferson Nickel is a United States nickel from the Jefferson Nickels Original Design 1938-2003 series — 42nd of 66 years in the series. In 1979, coins were struck at the Denver, Philadelphia, and San Francisco Mints with a combined mintage of 796.4 million. This ranks 41st of 66 years by total mintage, above the series median of 617.5 million. The obverse features Thomas Jefferson facing left and the reverse displays Monticello, Thomas Jefferson's Virginia estate. Standard production continued as the Susan B. Anthony dollar was introduced in a different denomination. Struck in 75% copper, 25% nickel, weighing 5 grams, 21.2 mm in diameter, with a plain edge. Collectors have cataloged 6 known die varieties for this date across 4 categories, including atypical die clash, cud, die chip and 1 other types. Across its variants, estimated values range from $0 to $5 depending on mint mark, grade, and strike type. A notable auction result reached $2.5K in PR70 grade at Heritage Auctions. Designed by Felix Schlag.
Value Estimates
Values as of May 2026 — range across all strike types, reflecting typical grades (G-4 through MS-63). Coins in lower or exceptional grades may fall outside this range.
