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1951-D

Nickels · Jefferson Nickels · 1938–Present
Regular
Weight5 g
Diameter21.21 mm
MintDenver
StrikeCirculation strike
Mintage 20,460,000
EdgePlain
Alignment↑↓ Coin
Composition75% Copper, 25% Nickel
DesignerFelix Schlag
Collector's Key IDCK-1396

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About this coinHistory

Denver struck 20,460,000 Jefferson nickels in 1951, a moderate production that places the 1951-D in the mid-range scarcity category. The coin is common in all grades and readily available in Mint State. Strike characteristics are generally strong, and Full Steps examples exist in adequate numbers for specialist demand at modest premiums.

Collectors building complete Jefferson nickel sets acquire the 1951-D without difficulty. The coin is typical of early-1950s Denver Jefferson production. For high-grade specialists, finding sharp Full Steps examples is straightforward through major dealer inventories, though premium pricing applies for the best-struck pieces.

The 1951-D is among the standard Denver Jefferson nickels of the Korean War period. Denver continued its routine production schedule for Jefferson nickels through the early 1950s, maintaining steady output while the country's attention was focused on international conflict and domestic political tensions.

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) $3 $3
MS-63 Choice Uncirculated (MS)
Frequently Asked QuestionsFAQ
How much is a 1951-D Jefferson Nickel worth?
In Uncirculated condition it runs about $3. These are reference values, not an appraisal.
How many 1951-D Jefferson Nickels were minted?
20,460,000 were struck.
What is a 1951-D Jefferson Nickel made of?
75% Copper, 25% Nickel, weighing 5 g.
What is the melt value of a 1951-D 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 1951-D Jefferson Nickel a key date?
It's a more common date overall, though scarcer die varieties may carry a premium — see the varieties list.