1940 Proof

Philadelphia struck 14,158 proof Jefferson nickels in 1940, an increase from 1939 and reflecting growing collector demand for proof sets as the economy recovered. The standard 1940 proof used the Reverse of 1940 hub configuration that had become standard for circulation production as well. Strike quality is typically sharp, with mirror fields, frosted devices, and crisp detail on well-preserved examples.

Cameo designation commands meaningful premiums for 1940 proofs with strong device frosting against the mirror fields. Deep Cameo examples are scarcer and command proportionally higher prices at major auctions. PR65 through PR67 examples are available through specialist channels, and the 1940 proof is typically acquired as a straightforward entry in complete Jefferson nickel proof set building.

The 1940 proof was distributed in the year's standard proof set alongside the other denominations. Original packaging sets are occasionally available at premiums over loose individual coins, and collectors pursuing complete set preservation can sometimes acquire the 1940 nickel still in original Mint packaging with the rest of the year's proof coins.