Price Guide for 1979 Nickel Variants
This guide presents price ranges for variants from three sources: eBay sales, third-party auctions, and PCGS guides. Values are shown for various conditions, allowing collectors to compare across different market segments. Price estimates may vary between sources, especially for rarer variants.
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $7.00 – $336.00
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eBayUncirculated: $3.25 – $4,500.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $2.00 – $8,250.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $15.00 – $2,115.00
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eBayUncirculated: $7.50 – $800.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $5.00 – $925.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $2.00 – $1,763.00
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eBayUncirculated: $0.01 – $598.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $4.00 – $80.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $1,200.00Uncirculated: $9.00 – $1,898.00
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eBayUncirculated: $0.99 – $205.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $1.00 – $110.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $13.00 – $345.00
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eBayCirculated: $20.00 – $250.00Uncirculated: $0.01 – $319.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $1.00 – $60.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $6.00 – $2,530.00
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eBayUncirculated: $0.99 – $1,278.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $3.00Uncirculated: $3.00 – $300.00
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eBayUncirculated: $15.49
Design and Specifications of the 1979 Nickel
The 1979 Jefferson Nickel continues the design introduced in 1938, featuring the third President of the United States, Thomas Jefferson, on the obverse and his home, Monticello, on the reverse. This year marked the 41st year of the Jefferson Nickel series, which has been a staple of American coinage since replacing the Buffalo Nickel.
| Weight | 5.0 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 21.2 mm |
| Mint Marks | P, D |
| Composition | 75% copper, 25% nickel |
| Obverse Design | Portrait of Thomas Jefferson facing left, designed by Felix Schlag |
| Reverse Design | Monticello, Jefferson's home, designed by Felix Schlag |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
Condition plays a crucial role in the value of 1979 Jefferson Nickels. While circulated examples are generally worth face value, uncirculated coins can command a premium. Coins in MS65 and above are particularly desirable to collectors, with MS67 examples being quite scarce.
For proof coins, cameo and deep cameo contrast between the frosted design elements and mirrored fields can significantly increase value. PR69 and PR70 specimens are highly sought after by collectors seeking perfection.
Mintage: 463,188,000
Rarity Scale: Common
Circulation Status: Widely Circulated
Preservation Rarity: Common in grades up to MS66, scarce in MS67 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: Low, primarily of interest to series collectors
Mintage: 395,811,000
Rarity Scale: Common
Circulation Status: Widely Circulated
Preservation Rarity: Common in grades up to MS66, scarce in MS67 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: Low, primarily of interest to series collectors
Mintage: 3,677,175
Rarity Scale: Common for proofs
Circulation Status: Not Intended for Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Common in grades up to PR69, scarce in PR70
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: Moderate, appealing to proof set collectors
Strike quality is an important factor for 1979 Jefferson Nickels. Well-struck coins with full steps on Monticello’s façade are more valuable. Luster also plays a role, with coins exhibiting strong, original mint luster being more desirable.
Toning can add value if it’s attractive and natural. However, any signs of cleaning or environmental damage can significantly decrease a coin’s worth. For proof coins, deep cameo contrast can add a substantial premium, especially in high grades.
