Price Guide for 2008 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: $17.00 – $940.00
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eBayUncirculated: $1.25 – $210.50
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $4.00 – $1,150.00
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eBayUncirculated: $4.59 – $20.50
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $3.00 – $8.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $19.00 – $29.00
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eBayUncirculated: $6.00 – $2,995.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $3.00 – $1,000.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $17.00 – $305.50
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eBayUncirculated: $3.01 – $382.77
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $4.00 – $250.00
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eBayUncirculated: $0.99 – $69.95
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $3.00 – $6.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $17.00Uncirculated: $8.00 – $86.00
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eBayUncirculated: $0.06 – $250.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $1.00 – $25.00
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eBayUncirculated: $2.80 – $89.95
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $2.00 – $50.00
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eBayUncirculated: $4.25 – $46.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $2.00 – $32.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $12.00 – $36.00
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eBayUncirculated: $6.50 – $66.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $3.00 – $1,850.00
Design and Specifications of the 2008 Nickel
The 2008 Nickel marked a significant return to tradition in the Jefferson Nickel series. After four years of the Westward Journey Nickel Series (2004-2007), which featured changing reverse designs, the Monticello design was reinstated on the reverse. This coin also retained the new forward-facing portrait of Jefferson introduced in 2006, creating a blend of modern and classic elements in American coinage.
| Weight | 5.0 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 21.21 mm |
| Mint Marks | P, D, S |
| Composition | 75% copper, 25% nickel |
| Obverse Design | Portrait of Thomas Jefferson facing forward, designed by Jamie Franki |
| Reverse Design | Return to Monticello design, featuring Jefferson's home, designed by Felix Schlag |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
The condition of 2008 Nickels significantly impacts their value, especially for circulation strikes. Coins in uncirculated condition (MS60 and above) command a premium, with those grading MS65 or higher being particularly desirable. For circulation strikes, full steps on Monticello’s facade are highly sought after and can dramatically increase value.
Proof coins are valued based on their cameo contrast and absence of imperfections. Deep Cameo proofs with flawless surfaces (PR70 DCAM) are the most valuable in this series.
Mintage: 279,840,000
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: 345,600,000
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: 2,577,941
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 crucial for 2008 Nickels, particularly for the Monticello steps on the reverse. Coins with sharp, well-defined steps are more valuable. Luster also plays a significant role, with coins displaying bright, satiny, or frosty luster being more desirable.
While not typically known for toning, some 2008 Nickels may develop attractive toning over time, which can enhance their appeal to collectors. However, any signs of cleaning or environmental damage can significantly reduce a coin’s value, regardless of its grade.
