The 1968-S Jefferson Nickel is worth anywhere from $0.05 in circulated condition to over $1,500 in high-grade proof state. While most of these coins found in pocket change are only worth their face value, certain high-quality specimens and rare varieties can fetch a significant premium from numismatists.

History and Mintage of the 1968-S Jefferson Nickel

The 1968-S Jefferson Nickel holds a special place in American coinage history because it marked the return of mint marks to United States coins. From 1965 to 1967, the Mint removed all mint marks to discourage coin hoarding during a national coin shortage. By 1968, the Mint resumed the practice, and the San Francisco Mint (denoted by the “S”) began striking nickels for the first time since 1954.

If you have discovered an old coin and are wondering about its rarity, using a top coin identifier app can help you distinguish between common circulation strikes and valuable proof versions. In 1968, the San Francisco Mint struck about 100 million nickels for general circulation and about 3 million proof coins for collectors.

Because the San Francisco Mint produced both “business strikes” (meant for spending) and “proof strikes” (meant for collectors), it is essential to determine which version you have. Business strikes were often poorly struck with worn-down details, while proof coins feature a mirror-like field and frosted details. You can easily track these differences and price trends using the CoinHix app to stay updated on market shifts.

How to Identify a 1968-S Jefferson Nickel

Identifying the 1968-S Jefferson Nickel is a straightforward process. Look at the obverse (front) of the coin, which features the profile of Thomas Jefferson. On the right side of the coin, just behind Jefferson’s ponytail and below the date, you should see a small “S” mint mark. If you find a “D,” it was minted in Denver; no letter means it was minted in Philadelphia.

Because billions of nickels were produced during the 1960s, condition is the primary factor driving value. Circulated coins—those that have been used to buy groceries or coffee—rarely carry a premium. However, if you find a coin that looks brand new with sharp details on Monticello (the building on the back), you might have something special.

Many people use the CoinHix app to zoom in on the steps of Monticello. In the world of nickel collecting, “Full Steps” (FS) is a designation given to coins where at least five or six steps are clearly visible. While rare for the 1968-S business strike, finding one in this condition could mean a payday of several hundred dollars.

Detailed Price Guide for 1968-S Jefferson Nickels

When assessing the value of your 1968-S Jefferson Nickel, it is important to categorize it by its grade. Professional grading scales run from 1 to 70. Most coins found in change are “Circulated” (Very Good to About Uncirculated), while those stored in sets are “Uncirculated” (Mint State).

Proof coins are graded similarly but prefixed with “PR” or “PF.” For those looking for specific market data, you can view the 1968 Jefferson nickel auction records and price trends to see how the San Francisco strikes compare to Denver and Philadelphia versions.

Condition / Grade	Estimated Value (Business Strike)	Estimated Value (Proof Strike)
Circulated (Good to XF)	$0.05 – $0.15	N/A
Uncirculated (MS63 – MS65)	$1.00 – $15.00	$3.00 – $10.00
Choice Mint State (MS66+)	$50.00 – $250.00	$20.00 – $100.00
Deep Cameo / High Grade	$500.00+ (Extreme Rarity)	$150.00 – $1,500.00

Valuable Errors and Varieties to Look For

While the standard 1968-S Nickel is common, error coins can be worth a small fortune. Error hunters often scan these coins for “Doubled Dies,” where the design was struck twice, leaving a blurred or shadowed appearance on the letters or numbers. Look closely at the words “IN GOD WE TRUST” and the date for any signs of doubling.

Another valuable discovery is a “clipped planchet” or an “off-center strike.” These happen when the metal disc isn’t lined up correctly in the machine. A nickel that is missing a portion of its circular shape or has the image pushed to one side can sell for $20 to $100 depending on the severity.

For a comprehensive list of what makes these coins unique, check out this 1968-S Jefferson Nickel price guide and variety list. Using a high-quality magnifying glass alongside the CoinHix app will help you identify these subtle flaws that the naked eye might miss.

The “Full Steps” Challenge for 1968-S Nickels

Collectors of Jefferson Nickels are obsessed with the “Full Steps” (FS) designation. This refers to the steps leading up to the entrance of Monticello on the reverse. Because the 1968 dies were often worn and the striking pressure was low, it is incredibly rare to find a business strike 1968-S with five or six fully defined steps.

If you happen to find a business strike 1968-S with crisp, clear steps, do not spend it! These are “condition rarities.” An MS65 1968-S with Full Steps is a prize that many serious collectors are missing from their sets. The lack of detailed strikes at the San Francisco Mint during this year makes any well-defined coin a major find for everyday treasure hunters.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is a 1968-S nickel made of silver?
A: No, the 1968-S Jefferson Nickel is composed of 75% copper and 25% nickel. The US stopped using silver in nickels in 1945 after the “War Nickels” era ended.

Q: How can I tell if my 1968-S is a proof coin?
A: Proof coins have a very shiny, mirror-like background and sharp details. They were originally sold in plastic sets to collectors. If your coin looks exceptionally “shiny” compared to others, it is likely a proof.

Q: Where is the mint mark on a 1968-S nickel?
A: The “S” mint mark is located on the obverse (front) of the coin, just to the right of Thomas Jefferson’s bust, near the year 1968.

Q: What is the most expensive 1968-S nickel ever sold?
A: High-grade proof 1968-S nickels in PR69 or PR70 Deep Cameo condition have sold at auctions for over $1,500, while rare business strikes with Full Steps can also reach high valuations.