Price Guide for 1991 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.
-
3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $20.00 – $403.00
-
eBayUncirculated: $1.00 – $114.00
-
PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $2.00 – $3,000.00
-
3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $29.00 – $384.00
-
eBayUncirculated: $1.00 – $949.99
-
PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $2.00 – $2,650.00
-
3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $11.00 – $31.00
-
eBayUncirculated: $0.99 – $270.00
-
PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $1.00 – $50.00
-
3rd Party PriceCirculated: $17.00Uncirculated: $6.00 – $243.00
-
eBayUncirculated: $0.99 – $330.00
-
PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $3.00Uncirculated: $3.00 – $40.00
-
3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $6.00 – $41.00
-
eBayUncirculated: $5.00 – $1,900.00
-
PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $1.00 – $250.00
Design and Specifications of the 1991 Nickel
The 1991 Jefferson Nickel continues the long-standing design introduced in 1938. This year marked the 250th anniversary of Thomas Jefferson’s birth, adding a layer of historical significance to the coin. Despite this milestone, the U.S. Mint did not make any special changes to the nickel’s design for the occasion.
| Weight | 5.0 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 21.21 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 1991 nickels, particularly for circulation strikes. While common in most grades, coins in pristine, uncirculated condition (MS65 and above) can command a premium. The value increases significantly for coins graded MS67 and above, as these are considerably scarcer.
For proof coins, the condition is equally important. Proof coins in PR69 and PR70 grades are highly sought after by collectors who appreciate their flawless surfaces and strong visual appeal.
Mintage: 521,780,000
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 date and mint mark collectors
Mintage: 436,496,000
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 date and mint mark collectors
Mintage: 3,220,733
Rarity Scale: Common for proof issues
Circulation Status: Not Intended for Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Common in grades up to PR69, scarce in PR70
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: Low to Moderate, mainly for inclusion in proof sets
Strike quality is an important factor for 1991 nickels. Well-struck coins with full steps on Monticello’s facade are more desirable and valuable. Luster also plays a role, with coins exhibiting bright, original mint luster being more appealing to collectors.
While not typically known for attractive toning, nicely toned specimens can command a premium if the coloration is natural and aesthetically pleasing. Additionally, error coins, such as off-center strikes or doubled dies (if discovered), could be significantly more valuable than their normal counterparts.
