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1949-S

Nickels · Jefferson Nickels · 1938–Present
Regular
Weight5 g
Diameter21.21 mm
MintSan Francisco
StrikeCirculation strike
Mintage 9,716,000
EdgePlain
Alignment↑↓ Coin
Composition75% Copper, 25% Nickel
DesignerFelix Schlag
Collector's Key IDCK-1390

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About this coinHistory

San Francisco struck 9,716,000 Jefferson nickels in 1949, a moderate production that places the 1949-S in the mid-range scarcity category. The coin is available in all circulated grades and accessible in Mint State through specialist channels at modest premiums. Strike characteristics are variable, and Full Steps examples command meaningful premiums for well-struck pieces.

The 1949-S is among the later San Francisco Jefferson nickels produced in meaningful circulation-strike quantity. After 1950, San Francisco's output would decline significantly as the Mint concentrated circulation production at Philadelphia and Denver. The 1949-S therefore marks a transitional moment in San Francisco's role within the Jefferson nickel series.

Collectors building complete Jefferson nickel sets acquire the 1949-S without extraordinary difficulty. For high-grade specialists, the coin presents the typical San Francisco challenges of variable strike quality that make Full Steps designation meaningful when achieved. Gem Full Steps examples command premium prices over typical strikes at the same grade.

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) $2.50 $2.50
MS-63 Choice Uncirculated (MS)
Frequently Asked QuestionsFAQ
How much is a 1949-S Jefferson Nickel worth?
In Uncirculated condition it runs about $2.50. These are reference values, not an appraisal.
How many 1949-S Jefferson Nickels were minted?
9,716,000 were struck.
What is a 1949-S Jefferson Nickel made of?
75% Copper, 25% Nickel, weighing 5 g.
What is the melt value of a 1949-S 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 1949-S Jefferson Nickel a key date?
It's a more common date overall, though scarcer die varieties may carry a premium — see the varieties list.