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1952-S

Nickels · Jefferson Nickels · 1938–Present
Regular
Weight5 g
Diameter21.21 mm
MintSan Francisco
StrikeCirculation strike
Mintage 20,572,000
EdgePlain
Alignment↑↓ Coin
Composition75% Copper, 25% Nickel
DesignerFelix Schlag
Collector's Key IDCK-1401

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About this coinHistory

San Francisco struck 20,572,000 Jefferson nickels in 1952, a moderate production that places the 1952-S in the mid-range scarcity category. The coin is common in circulated grades and available in Mint State through major dealer inventories. Strike characteristics are variable, and Full Steps examples command meaningful premiums for well-struck pieces.

The 1952-S represents one of the better-produced San Francisco Jefferson nickels of the early 1950s. Strike quality is generally improved over some earlier San Francisco issues, and Full Steps designation is more achievable on 1952-S coins than on coins from adjacent years. Collectors prioritizing strike quality find the 1952-S somewhat easier than other San Francisco dates of the period.

Collectors building complete Jefferson nickel sets acquire the 1952-S without extraordinary difficulty. The coin is typical of early-1950s San Francisco Jefferson production and serves as a routine entry in date sets while offering opportunities for specialist Full Steps collecting.

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) $1 $1.50
MS-63 Choice Uncirculated (MS)
Frequently Asked QuestionsFAQ
How much is a 1952-S Jefferson Nickel worth?
In Uncirculated condition it runs about $1–$1.50. These are reference values, not an appraisal.
How many 1952-S Jefferson Nickels were minted?
20,572,000 were struck.
What is a 1952-S Jefferson Nickel made of?
75% Copper, 25% Nickel, weighing 5 g.
What is the melt value of a 1952-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 1952-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.