Price Guide for 2002 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: $25.00
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eBayUncirculated: $2.96 – $159.95
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $1.00 – $40.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $23.00 – $199.75
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eBayCirculated: $2.00 – $4.00Uncirculated: $2.99 – $77.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $1.00 – $36.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $9.00 – $115.00
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eBayUncirculated: $1.36 – $102.50
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $2.00 – $3,500.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $4.00 – $144.00
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eBayUncirculated: $3.26 – $1,187.49
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $2.00 – $3,350.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $6.00 – $1,880.00
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eBayUncirculated: $0.86 – $69.99
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $3.00Uncirculated: $3.00 – $30.00
Design and Specifications of the 2002 Nickel
The 2002 Jefferson Nickel continues the long-standing design that has been in use since 1938. This year marks the 64th year of the Jefferson Nickel series, which began as a replacement for the Buffalo Nickel. The coin depicts Thomas Jefferson, the third President of the United States, on the obverse and his home, Monticello, on the reverse.
In 2002, the United States was still recovering from the events of September 11, 2001, and the economy was in a period of transition. The nickel, despite its low face value, remained an important part of everyday commerce.
| Weight | 5.00 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 21.21 mm |
| Mint Marks | P, D |
| Composition | 75% copper, 25% nickel |
| Obverse Design | Portrait of Thomas Jefferson, 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 determining the value of 2002 Nickels. While these coins are common in circulated grades, they become increasingly scarce in higher mint state conditions. Coins graded MS65 or higher can command significant premiums over their face value.
Key factors affecting condition include:
– Strike quality: Well-struck coins with full details are more desirable.
– Luster: Coins with original mint luster are highly prized.
– Surface preservation: Absence of marks, scratches, or other imperfections increases value.
Mintage: 732,800,000
Rarity Scale: Common
Circulation Status: Widely Circulated
Preservation Rarity: Common in most grades, but scarce in gem (MS65+) condition
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: Low, primarily of interest to series collectors
Mintage: 635,400,000
Rarity Scale: Common
Circulation Status: Widely Circulated
Preservation Rarity: Common in most grades, but scarce in gem (MS65+) condition
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: Low, primarily of interest to series collectors
While the 2002 Nickel is generally common, certain factors can increase its value:
1. Full Steps: Coins showing complete steps on Monticello are rare and valuable.
2. Cameo contrast on proofs: Though not listed in mintage, any proof nickels from this year with strong cameo or deep cameo contrast would be more valuable.
3. Error coins: Any significant mint errors, such as off-center strikes or die cracks, could increase value.
4. Toning: Natural, attractive toning can enhance appeal to collectors.
The coin’s historical significance as part of the long-running Jefferson series adds to its numismatic interest, even if its monetary value remains modest for most examples.
