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1970-S

Nickels · Jefferson Nickels · 1938–Present
Regular
Weight5 g
Diameter21.21 mm
MintSan Francisco
StrikeCirculation strike
Mintage 238,832,004
EdgePlain
Alignment↑↓ Coin
Composition75% Copper, 25% Nickel
DesignerFelix Schlag
Collector's Key IDCK-1456

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About this coinHistory

San Francisco struck 238,832,004 Jefferson nickels in 1970, the final year of S-mint circulation-strike Jefferson nickel production. Beginning in 1971, San Francisco would produce only proof Jefferson nickels, making the 1970-S the terminal piece of the 1968-1970 circulation-strike revival. 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 1970-S as the closing entry of the brief S-mint circulation revival period.

The transition to proof-only production at San Francisco beginning in 1971 reflected the Mint's decision to specialize branch mint roles: Denver would handle the bulk of circulation nickel production, while San Francisco would focus on proof and commemorative coinage. The arrangement has persisted, with occasional exceptions, to the present day. The 1970-S therefore marks the end of an era in San Francisco Jefferson nickel production.

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) $0.60 $0.70
MS-63 Choice Uncirculated (MS)
Frequently Asked QuestionsFAQ
How much is a 1970-S Jefferson Nickel worth?
In Good condition it runs about $0.05, rising to roughly $0.60–$0.70 in Uncirculated. These are reference values, not an appraisal.
How many 1970-S Jefferson Nickels were minted?
238,832,004 were struck.
What is a 1970-S Jefferson Nickel made of?
75% Copper, 25% Nickel, weighing 5 g.
What is the melt value of a 1970-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 1970-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.