1968-S Proof

San Francisco's 1968 proof Jefferson nickel mintage was 3,041,506 coins, the first proof Jefferson nickels struck at San Francisco. The transition of proof production from Philadelphia to San Francisco in 1968 marked the beginning of the modern S-mint proof era that continues to the present day. Traditional proof sets resumed after the 1965-1967 SMS interlude, now carrying the S mintmark that would become synonymous with American proof coinage.

The coin is common by proof standards and available in every grade. Strike quality is typically sharp, with mirror fields, frosted devices, and crisp detail on well-preserved examples. Cameo contrast is available at modest premiums, and Deep Cameo pieces command significantly higher prices at major auctions.

The 1968-S proof represents the beginning of the modern Jefferson nickel proof era. Every subsequent proof Jefferson nickel (through the current year) has been struck at San Francisco with the S mintmark, making the 1968-S the inaugural piece of a continuous sub-series that now spans more than five decades. Collectors building complete Jefferson nickel proof sets acquire the 1968-S as an essential transition piece.