1939-S Reverse of 1938
| Weight | 5 g |
| Diameter | 21.21 mm |
| Mint | San Francisco |
| Strike | Circulation strike |
| Mintage | 6,630,000 |
| Edge | Plain |
| Alignment | ↑↓ Coin |
| Composition | 75% Copper, 25% Nickel |
| Melt value | — |
| Designer | Felix Schlag |
| Collector's Key ID | CK-1348 |
| Last edited |
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Other recorded varieties for 1939-S:
- 1939-S Reverse of 1940 · Reverse of 1940
External references
San Francisco's 1939 Jefferson nickel mintage was 6,630,000 coins across both reverse sub-types, with the Reverse of 1938 accounting for the majority. The 1939-S Reverse of 1938 is scarcer than the Philadelphia issue but more common than the 1939-D varieties, placing it in the mid-semi-key tier of early Jefferson nickel collecting. The coin commands meaningful premiums in all grades, particularly in high Mint State with Full Steps designation.
Strike characteristics are variable. Some 1939-S Reverse of 1938 examples show strong detail, while others display the softer definition typical of the original reverse hub. Specialists building high-grade sets prioritize well-struck examples and pay premiums for Full Steps pieces that meet strict strike criteria. Gem Full Steps 1939-S Reverse of 1938 nickels are genuinely scarce and command four-figure prices.
The 1939-S Reverse of 1938 is one of several early Jefferson nickel challenges that collectors address before tackling the 1950-D key. Along with the 1938-D, 1938-S, 1939-D, and the separate 1939-S Reverse of 1940 variety, it anchors the pre-war Jefferson scarcity tier. Collectors building complete sets treat these early dates as core acquisitions requiring dedicated budget and patience.
Reference data only — not an appraisal.
| Grade | Description | Low | High |
|---|---|---|---|
| G-4 | Good (G) | $0.60 | $0.70 |
| VG-8 | Very Good (VG) | $0.80 | $0.95 |
| F-12 | Fine (F) | $1 | $1.50 |
| VF-20 | Very Fine (VF) | $2.50 | $2.50 |
| EF-40 | Extremely Fine (EF) | $5.50 | $6.50 |
| AU-50 | About Uncirculated (AU) | $8 | $9 |
| MS-60 | Uncirculated (MS) | $16.50 | $19 |
| MS-63 | Choice Uncirculated (MS) | — | — |
How much is a 1939-S Reverse of 1938 Jefferson Nickel worth?
How many 1939-S Reverse of 1938 Jefferson Nickels were minted?
What is a 1939-S Reverse of 1938 Jefferson Nickel made of?
What is the melt value of a 1939-S Reverse of 1938 Jefferson Nickel?
Is the 1939-S Reverse of 1938 Jefferson Nickel a key date?
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