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1961 Proof

Nickels · Jefferson Nickels · 1938–Present
Regular Proof
Weight5 g
Diameter21.21 mm
MintPhiladelphia
StrikeProof
Mintage 3,028,244
EdgePlain
Alignment↑↓ Coin
Composition75% Copper, 25% Nickel
DesignerFelix Schlag
Collector's Key IDCK-1431

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About this coinHistory

Philadelphia struck 3,028,244 proof Jefferson nickels in 1961, crossing the three-million mark and continuing the explosive growth of proof set sales in the early 1960s. The coin is abundant by proof standards and available in every grade. Strike quality is typically sharp, with Cameo contrast available at modest premiums.

The 1961 proof mintage reflects the peak growth period of proof set collecting as a mainstream hobby. With more than three million proof nickels struck in a single year, the Mint was meeting enormous collector demand that reflected the broader expansion of coin collecting during the 1960s. Proof set sales would continue climbing through the mid-1960s before the Special Mint Set transition in 1965.

Collectors building complete Jefferson nickel proof sets acquire the 1961 as a straightforward early-1960s entry. Deep Cameo examples command meaningful premiums and are particularly prized for their strong device frosting against deep mirror fields.

Price guideReference

Reference data only — not an appraisal.

GradeDescriptionLowHigh
PR-63 Proof (PR)
Frequently Asked QuestionsFAQ
How many 1961 Proof Jefferson Nickels were minted?
3,028,244 were struck.
What is a 1961 Proof Jefferson Nickel made of?
75% Copper, 25% Nickel, weighing 5 g.
What is the melt value of a 1961 Proof 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 1961 Proof Jefferson Nickel a key date?
It's a more common date overall, though scarcer die varieties may carry a premium — see the varieties list.