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1939-S Reverse of 1940

Nickels · Jefferson Nickels · 1938–Present
Variety
Weight5 g
Diameter21.21 mm
MintSan Francisco
StrikeCirculation strike
Mintage 6,630,000
EdgePlain
Alignment↑↓ Coin
Composition75% Copper, 25% Nickel
DesignerFelix Schlag
Collector's Key IDCK-1349

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About this coinHistory

The 1939-S Reverse of 1940 is the rarer of the two 1939-S sub-types, representing the smaller portion of San Francisco production that used the modified reverse hub. Like the 1939-D Reverse of 1940, the variety is estimated at a few hundred thousand coins and is scarce in all grades. It is a required acquisition for advanced Jefferson nickel collectors building complete reverse variety sets.

Identification requires verifying both the S mintmark and the Reverse of 1940 die configuration. The modified reverse produces sharper step detail and cleaner column definition, making Full Steps designation more achievable than on the original reverse sub-types. Certification from PCGS or NGC provides reliable attribution for collectors pursuing the variety at premium pricing.

Surviving populations are limited. Mint State examples are scarce, and Gem Full Steps pieces command significant premiums over typical strike examples at the same grade. The 1939-S Reverse of 1940 is one of the defining rarities of advanced Jefferson nickel variety collecting and rounds out the challenging group of early reverse sub-types that define the series' first three years.

Price guideReference

Reference data only — not an appraisal.

GradeDescriptionLowHigh
G-4 Good (G)
VG-8 Very Good (VG)
F-12 Fine (F)
VF-20 Very Fine (VF)
EF-40 Extremely Fine (EF)
AU-50 About Uncirculated (AU)
MS-60 Uncirculated (MS)
MS-63 Choice Uncirculated (MS)
Frequently Asked QuestionsFAQ
How many 1939-S Reverse of 1940 Jefferson Nickels were minted?
6,630,000 were struck.
What is a 1939-S Reverse of 1940 Jefferson Nickel made of?
75% Copper, 25% Nickel, weighing 5 g.
What is the melt value of a 1939-S Reverse of 1940 Jefferson Nickel?
Its melt value is its metal content multiplied by the current spot price. See our melt calculator on the metals pages for a live figure.
Is the 1939-S Reverse of 1940 Jefferson Nickel a key date?
It's a more common date overall, though scarcer die varieties may carry a premium — see the varieties list.