It’s important to pay attention to the condition of your coin because it plays a big role in determining the value of a 1964 copper nickel coin. Collectible coins are the ones that are in excellent condition, with all the details still sharp and intact.
Here’s a simple guide to help you figure out the value of your coin: Start by identifying the year (1964) and checking for the mintmark, which is usually found on the reverse side below the Monticello building. Mintmarks include “D” for Denver, “S” for San Francisco, and the absence of a mintmark for Philadelphia.
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1964 Copper Nickel Coin Valuation Guide:
Step 1: Identifying Date and Mintmark Variety: The value of vintage nickels is determined by their date and mint variety. Make sure to confirm the specific variety of your nickel.
Step 2: Assessing Condition Grade: Examine your coin’s condition by comparing it to images of different grades. Recognize the quality that is in demand, as it is often awarded a premium value.
Step 3: Noteworthy Qualities: Special qualities add value to old coins. Vintage Jefferson nickels are collected in various ways, leading to different levels of demand and ultimately influencing their overall worth.
Condition of Coin Date | Good | Fine | Extremely Fine | Mint State
1964 | $0.05 | $0.05 | $0.43 1964 D | $0.05 | $0.05 | $0.05 | $0.43
Collectors assemble vintage Jefferson nickel collections based on the combination of date and mint variety. While both varieties of 1964 nickels hold similar values, having both is essential to completing a collection.
The condition of the coin plays a crucial role in determining the premium value, considering the large numbers minted. Today’s collectors seek top-condition examples from this minting.
To accurately identify your 1964 variety and assess its collectability, follow a few necessary steps.
Step 1: Identify the Date and Mintmark Variety
Recognizing Varieties of 1964 Jefferson Nickel
In 1964, two mints collectively produced a substantial 2.8 billion nickels. The production extended into the following year to meet the high demand caused by a coin shortage in the U.S. during that time.
Due to the exceptionally large number of original mintages, the two mint varieties (Philadelphia and Denver) of 1964 nickels are abundantly available today. It is crucial to identify and collect both varieties separately for a complete and accurate collection.
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1964-D Jefferson Nickel “D” Mintmark on Reverse: Indicates Denver Mint Production
The 1964-D Jefferson Nickel was primarily manufactured by the Denver Mint, releasing a record-breaking 1.8 billion coins into circulation. Given the substantial quantity available, the determining factor for the coin’s value is its condition.
To identify Denver-minted nickels, look for the small “D” mintmark on the reverse side, situated to the right of Monticello.
This distinctive mark indicates the Denver mint variety.
1964 Jefferson Nickel No Mintmark on Reverse: Indicates Philadelphia Mint Production
1964 Copper Nickel Coin, lacking a mintmark on the reverse side, signifies that it was struck by the Philadelphia Mint. With a production exceeding 1 billion coins, Philadelphia established a record for its output.
These coins are commonly found in the vintage-era Jefferson series, providing collectors with numerous options to choose from when assembling a 1964 copper nickel coin set.
The primary considerations for collectors are the coin’s condition and aesthetic appeal. Premium values are assigned to top-grade examples that surpass face value.
Notably, Philadelphia did not include mintmarks on the coins produced in 1964. To identify Philadelphia mint variety nickels from this year, observe the empty space between the rim and the right side of Monticello on the reverse side.
Step 2: | Assess Condition to Determine Grade
The Value of a 1964 Jefferson Nickel is Defined by Its Mint State or Circulated Condition
The grading process carefully evaluates the surface quality of coins, distinguishing between Mint State and circulated conditions.
Experts scrutinize major and minor differences in the extent of wear, comparing them to reference images that represent various grades.
By inspecting key points of the design, the grading process determines the remaining quality of the surface and helps gauge the progression of wear on the coin.
Mint State Grade for 1964 Copper Nickel Coin
A 1964 Jefferson Nickel in Mint State grade is characterized by the absence of wear on the surface.
It retains its original minted condition, with all the intricate details visible and, crucially, the surface covered in the distinctive texture of luster.
To determine the preservation quality, focus on the surface of Jefferson’s face and observe the presence of luster.
In Mint State grade, high and low relief areas defining the cheek and mouth should exhibit consistent texture, shine, and color tone. The absence of wear and the retention of the original metal texture confirm the mint state grade.
The texture of luster is swiftly lost when a coin is in circulation, resulting in a smooth and dulled surface.
Take note of Jefferson’s hair and the large area of the collar and shoulder, ensuring they reflect a similar shine as his face. A coin in Mint State grade exhibits complete luster without any signs of wear.
Extremely Fine Grade for 1964 Copper Nickel Coin
An Extremely Fine grade for a 1964 Jefferson Nickel is characterized by trace amounts of wear lightly scattered on high areas.
At this stage, most of the luster has been removed, and there is a slight change in color and dullness on the high points of the coin.
In this grade, Jefferson’s cheek below the eye exhibits a smooth texture due to wear, resulting in the development of a flat area that removes the rounded contour of the cheek.
Areas around his mouth and chin show raised areas beginning to flatten and display smoothness.
Overall, the crisp details of the hair strands remain slightly visible, confirming the Extremely Fine grade. Minor wear has affected the contours of the collar, with a separation just becoming visible at the shoulder and coat.
Low Grade Examples of 1964 Copper Nickel Coin
In low-grade condition, 1964 Jefferson Nickels exhibit visual signs of moderate to heavy wear, resulting in a smooth surface across most of the design. The coin lacks fine detail and falls below the Extremely Fine grade.
Facial features show large areas of flatness, with a once high-profile cheek now reduced and connected to the eyebrow and jaw in one flat area. Jefferson’s hair appears smooth with no fine strands visible.
The tall collar exhibits visible wear, appearing flat in areas, and the line separating the shoulder is missing across the center area. On the reverse side, heavy wear is evident, with Monticello appearing faint across the front, and the small details of the windows being very faint. Overall, the pleasing eye appeal of a well-detailed coin is absent in low-grade Jefferson nickels.
Step 3: Special Qualities Enhancing the Value of 1964 Jefferson Nickels
Collecting Vintage Jefferson Nickels
Many collectors are drawn to the allure of vintage Jefferson nickels, considering them an intriguing series to gather. An exploration into the coinage of that era reveals several engaging themes that make for a captivating collection.
1938 Jefferson Nickels Collection: The vintage era, spanning from 1938 to 1964, presents a fascinating theme within the evolving Jefferson design. Within this exclusive vintage timeframe, many collectors are driven to pursue a comprehensive date and mint set.
Achieving a set of all 71 nickels in mint state grade stands as a rewarding challenge, showcasing these coins in their pristine, as-minted condition.
Exploring Special Themes in Vintage Jefferson Nickels
Within the vintage era of Jefferson nickels, a standout theme revolves around the silver issues from 1942 to 1945.
These particular years witnessed a unique addition of silver to the metal composition of Jefferson nickels, creating a distinct coin within the entire U.S. coinage. Owning a set of these “silver nickels” holds not only historical significance but also considerable value for collectors.
Another popular approach to collecting U.S. nickels is through a type of collection. This involves creating a set that includes an example of each design of nickel, showcasing the evolution of nickel coinage from its inception to the present day.
The set typically includes representatives from the Shield, Liberty, Buffalo, and Jefferson series. Choosing “first year of issue” pieces, such as the 1938 Jefferson nickel, adds an extra layer of appeal by displaying the initial designs that are consistently in demand.
Certain years stand out due to their unique traits. A focused collection of 1942-dated nickels includes:
- 1942 Philadelphia | Copper Nickel Alloy
- 1942 Denver | Copper Nickel Alloy
- 1942 Philadelphia | Silver Alloy
- 1942 San Francisco | Silver Alloy
Interestingly, Philadelphia stands out as the only mint striking both copper nickel and silver varieties in the same year.
Some collectors specialize in a particular mint, and within the Jefferson series, the San Francisco mint enjoys popularity. A specialty set of San Francisco Jefferson nickels may include the “first year of issue” (1938), known for its low mintage.
Additionally, five of the top ten lowest mintage nickels of the series were struck at the San Francisco mint. The inclusion of San Francisco-minted silver issues from 1942 to 1945 adds a unique and appealing dimension to the collection.
The popularity of collecting Jefferson nickels is rooted in their strong historical value. Collectors have the flexibility to explore various themes and approaches to collecting, catering to both newcomers and seasoned enthusiasts.
The vintage era of Jefferson nickels offers affordability for new collectors, while presenting challenges that captivate advanced collectors.