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1972

Nickels · Jefferson Nickels · 1938–Present
Regular
Weight5 g
Diameter21.21 mm
MintPhiladelphia
StrikeCirculation strike
Mintage 202,036,000
EdgePlain
Alignment↑↓ Coin
Composition75% Copper, 25% Nickel
DesignerFelix Schlag
Collector's Key IDCK-1462

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About this coinHistory

Philadelphia struck 202,036,000 Jefferson nickels in 1972, continuing the no-mintmark Philadelphia production that would persist until 1980. 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.

1972 was a year of major political events. President Nixon made his historic trip to China in February, opening diplomatic relations and reshaping Cold War dynamics. The Watergate break-in occurred in June, though the full scandal would not unfold until 1973-1974. Nixon won re-election in November in a landslide over George McGovern. The Jefferson nickels struck that year circulated through one of the most politically consequential years of the decade, changing hands in routine transactions while the events that would topple the Nixon presidency were beginning to unfold.

Collectors building complete Jefferson nickel sets acquire the 1972 without difficulty. The coin is a straightforward acquisition beyond the standard preferences for well-struck Full Steps examples.

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 1972 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 1972 Jefferson Nickels were minted?
202,036,000 were struck.
What is a 1972 Jefferson Nickel made of?
75% Copper, 25% Nickel, weighing 5 g.
What is the melt value of a 1972 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 1972 Jefferson Nickel a key date?
It's a more common date overall, though scarcer die varieties may carry a premium — see the varieties list.