The 1962 Jefferson nickel is composed of 75% copper and 25% nickel. This specific metal mix has been used for most of its production history. However, during World War II, these nickels temporarily contained silver due to the demand for copper and nickel in the war effort.
Here are some quick facts about the 1962 Jefferson nickel:
- Value: 5 cents ($0.05)
- Weight: 5 grams
- Diameter: 21.21 millimeters
- Edge: Smooth
A Brief History of the Jefferson Nickel
The U.S. Mint introduced the nickel in 1866, with the first design called the Shield nickel. Over time, the design changed, moving from the V nickel (1883-1913) to the Buffalo nickel (1913-1938). The Buffalo nickel, although visually striking, had production issues, leading to the creation of the Jefferson nickel in 1938.
The Mint held a public competition in 1938 to redesign the coin, ultimately selecting a design by Felix Schlag. His winning design features a portrait of Thomas Jefferson on the front (obverse) and Monticello, Jefferson’s Virginia estate, on the back (reverse). Interestingly, Schlag’s initials were left off the nickel until 1966 due to a miscommunication.
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What Does the 1962 Jefferson Nickel Look Like?
On the front of the 1962 nickel, you’ll see Thomas Jefferson facing left, with “IN GOD WE TRUST” above his head, “LIBERTY” behind him, and the year “1962” printed in front. The back of the coin shows Monticello, with inscriptions like “E PLURIBUS UNUM,” “MONTICELLO,” “FIVE CENTS,” and “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.”
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1962 Jefferson Nickel Varieties
There are three main types of 1962 Jefferson nickels:
- 1962-P Jefferson Nickel: Minted in Philadelphia, it has no mint mark and is worth between $0.05 and $10 depending on condition. Over 97 million of these coins were produced.
- 1962-P Jefferson Proof Nickel: Also from Philadelphia, these proof coins (specially made for collectors) are worth more, typically between $0.05 and $15. About 3.2 million were made.
- 1962-D Jefferson Nickel: Struck in Denver, this variety has a “D” mint mark. It’s more valuable, with prices ranging from $0.05 to $89. Over 280 million were minted, making it one of the most abundant, yet high-grade examples can fetch a high price.
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Error Coins
While there are no significant recorded errors for the 1962 Jefferson nickel, mistakes occasionally occur. The most common error is a “doubled die,” where parts of the design appear doubled due to a misstrike. These error coins can be worth more, especially if the doubling is noticeable.