1938-S 5C Jefferson Nickel
The 1938-S Jefferson Nickel represents a significant coin for collectors, primarily for its historical context and its position as the first year of the Jefferson Nickel series. Struck at the San Francisco Mint, it features a depiction of Thomas Jefferson on the obverse, designed by Felix Schlag. This particular mint mark, the 'S', denotes its production in San Francisco, making it a subject of interest among numismatists.
Rarity and Mintage
The 1938-S Jefferson Nickel boasts a relatively low mintage compared to its Philadelphia counterpart. Specifically, the San Francisco Mint produced 4,105,000 coins in this year, making it a comparatively scarce entry in the early Jefferson Nickel series. Its mintage suggests a level of rarity that captivates collectors, particularly those interested in early U.S. coins and those focused on completing a Jefferson Nickel collection.
Historical Significance
The coin emerged during a transition from its predecessor, the Buffalo Nickel, which had been in circulation since 1913. The change to the Jefferson Nickel series introduced a new era of U.S. coinage, reflecting a more modern economic landscape. From a numismatic perspective, the 1938-S 5C signified a move towards coins that more prominently honored national historical figures, aligning with a broader societal move to celebrate American heritage through currency.
Values and Market Performance
The 1938-S Jefferson Nickel enjoys a robust collector market, with its value influenced by factors such as condition and demand. As of the latest reports and sales data, high-grade examples, particularly those in Mint State or with Full Steps designation, capture significant premiums.
PCGS Graded Coins: As per recent extensive sales records, coins graded MS65 can command prices around $40-$60, depending on the current market dynamics and collector interest. When reaching MS66 or higher, values can soar above the $100 mark due to the superior eye appeal and scarcity of high-grade specimens.
Notable Auction Results: A notable sale featured a 1938-S Jefferson Nickel in MS67 with Full Steps, fetching impressive sums at auctions, illustrating the desirability of such high-quality pieces among serious collectors.
Coin Details
Mint: San Francisco
Mintage: 4,105,000
PCGS Number: 4007
Insights from CoinFacts
Coin enthusiasts regard the 1938-S as one with intriguing historical and market dynamics, often examining the die variations and minting nuances that affect grading. From a numismatic viewpoint, interest centers around the precision of strike and the preservation of details that are crucial for collectors aiming to add high-grade examples to their collections. In conclusion, the 1938-S Jefferson Nickel is a beloved piece among coin collectors, enriched by its historical context, relative scarcity, and the enduring appeal of early-series coins. Its values, influenced by condition and market conditions, continue to reflect both its numismatic merit and the broader collector demand for early Jefferson Nickels.
