1939 Proof

Philadelphia struck 12,535 proof Jefferson nickels in 1939, a decline from the 1938 inaugural figure but still a substantial proof mintage. The 1939 proof represents the standard main-line issue of the year, distinct from the specific Reverse of 1938 and Reverse of 1940 sub-type designations used by specialists. Most collector references list the 1939 proof as a single entry without splitting it by reverse variety, though advanced specialists track the sub-types separately.

Strike quality is generally strong, with typical early Jefferson proof characteristics: mirror fields, frosted devices, and crisp obverse portrait detail. Cameo contrast is available on coins struck from fresh dies, and Deep Cameo pieces command significant premiums. PR65 through PR67 examples are available through specialist channels, and the 1939 proof is typically acquired early in the process of building a Jefferson nickel proof set.

The 1939 proof was distributed alongside other denominations in the year's proof set, which included the cent, nickel, dime, quarter, half, and silver dollar. Original packaging sets are occasionally available and command premiums over loose individual coins. For collectors pursuing complete proof set preservation, the 1939 nickel is a required entry in original-packaging collections.