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1968-S

Nickels · Jefferson Nickels · 1938–Present
Regular
Weight5 g
Diameter21.21 mm
MintSan Francisco
StrikeCirculation strike
Mintage 100,396,004
EdgePlain
Alignment↑↓ Coin
Composition75% Copper, 25% Nickel
DesignerFelix Schlag
Collector's Key IDCK-1450

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About this coinHistory

San Francisco struck 100,396,004 Jefferson nickels in 1968, the first circulation-strike Jefferson nickels produced at San Francisco since 1954. The 14-year gap in S-mint Jefferson production ended as the Mint resumed branch mint nickel production at both Denver and San Francisco following the coin shortage resolution.

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. The 1968-S is the first entry in a brief San Francisco circulation-strike revival that would continue through 1970.

San Francisco's 1968 return to circulation-strike Jefferson production was short-lived. The facility would strike circulating Jefferson nickels through 1970 before transitioning permanently to proof-only production starting in 1971. The 1968-S, 1969-S, and 1970-S are therefore a distinctive three-year sub-group within the Jefferson nickel series representing the brief San Francisco circulation-strike revival.

Price guideReference

Reference data only — not an appraisal.

GradeDescriptionLowHigh
G-4 Good (G) $0.05 $0.05
VG-8 Very Good (VG) $0.05 $0.05
F-12 Fine (F) $0.05 $0.05
VF-20 Very Fine (VF) $0.05 $0.05
EF-40 Extremely Fine (EF) $0.05 $0.05
AU-50 About Uncirculated (AU) $0.05 $0.05
MS-60 Uncirculated (MS) $0.20 $0.25
MS-63 Choice Uncirculated (MS)
Frequently Asked QuestionsFAQ
How much is a 1968-S Jefferson Nickel worth?
In Good condition it runs about $0.05, rising to roughly $0.20–$0.25 in Uncirculated. These are reference values, not an appraisal.
How many 1968-S Jefferson Nickels were minted?
100,396,004 were struck.
What is a 1968-S Jefferson Nickel made of?
75% Copper, 25% Nickel, weighing 5 g.
What is the melt value of a 1968-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 1968-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.