The 1965 Nickel – A Collector’s Guide
The 1965 Jefferson Nickel might look like just another coin, but it holds unique appeal for collectors. If you’re starting your journey in numismatics or you’re interested in buying or selling this particular coin, this guide provides essential information to get you started. Let’s explore the fascinating world of the 1965 Nickel.
1965 Nickel Detail
- Type: Jefferson Nickel
- Mint Year: 1965
- Mint Mark: None
- Mint Location: Philadelphia
- Market Value: $0.05 to $15+
- Face Value: 5 cents
- Mintage Quantity: 1,753,019,400
- Proof Strikes: 2,360,000
- Edge Type: Smooth
- Composition: 75% Copper, 25% Nickel
- Diameter: 21.2 mm
- Weight: 5 grams
1965 Nickel Value Chart
| Mint Mark | Extremely Fine | MS63 | MS65 | MS67 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1965 (no mark) | $0.15 | $0.25 | $0.50 | $2.50 |
| 1965 SMS | — | $1.50 | $5.00 | $15.00 |
Although most 1965 nickels aren’t particularly rare, coins in higher Mint State conditions can command slightly higher prices. The Special Mint Set (SMS) versions are rarer and more desirable among collectors, often fetching premium prices depending on their condition.
These values are estimates and may change based on demand and market trends. For the most accurate valuation, consider having your coin professionally graded.
1965 Nickel Value and Varieties Guide
Three main varieties of the 1965 nickel were produced, each offering distinct traits and potential values.
1965 (P) Nickel Value
- Type: Jefferson Nickel
- Mint Mark: None
- Mint: Philadelphia
- Condition Value: $0.05–$10 (circulated), $15–$150 (uncirculated)
- Mintage: 1,576,962,000
- Designer: Felix Schlag
This version of the 1965 Nickel features no mint mark and displays Jefferson’s portrait on the front and Monticello on the back. Circulated examples are generally worth their face value, but high-quality uncirculated ones can be worth much more.
1965 Special Mint Set (SMS) Nickel
- Type: Jefferson Nickel
- Mint Mark: None
- Mint: Philadelphia
- Condition Value: $5–$100 (circulated), $25–$1,000+ (uncirculated)
- Mintage: Unknown (limited release)
- Designer: Felix Schlag
The SMS version was created specifically for collectors and is known for its matte-like finish. These coins were not released for general circulation and are more valuable due to their rarity and enhanced strike quality.
History of the 1965 Nickel
The Jefferson Nickel has been in circulation since 1938, with its design crafted by Felix Schlag. The 1965 edition followed a period of change, where mint marks were temporarily removed from all U.S. coins between 1965 and 1967.
The coin shows Thomas Jefferson on the front and Monticello on the back. While Philadelphia struck the majority of 1965 nickels, no mint marks were used that year. These coins weigh 5 grams, have a diameter of 21.21 mm, and are made from a copper-nickel alloy.
While typical circulated examples hold little more than face value, well-preserved and rare varieties—especially SMS coins—can be worth considerably more.
1965 Nickel Grading
Coin grading helps determine a coin’s value by examining its condition. Grades range from Poor (P-1) to Mint State (MS-70). Coins with little to no wear, original luster, and strong details are more desirable.
Collectors often rely on expert coin graders or reference books to evaluate their coins accurately.
List of 1965 Nickel Errors
Some 1965 nickels have minting errors, making them more appealing to collectors:
- Clipped Planchet – Part of the coin is missing due to an incomplete blanking process.
- Off-Center Strike – The design is not properly centered, affecting its symmetry.
- Double Die – Duplication of the design elements, usually visible on the lettering or numbers.
- Die Crack – Raised lines on the coin due to cracks in the die.
- Doubled Die Obverse (DDO) – Doubling seen on the front (Jefferson’s side).
- Doubled Die Reverse (DDR) – Doubling visible on the Monticello side.
- Broadstrike – Struck without a retaining collar, leading to a wider, flatter coin.
Each of these errors may significantly increase the coin’s worth depending on its severity and rarity.
FAQ
What is a 1965 Nickel?
A five-cent coin issued by the U.S. Mint, featuring Thomas Jefferson and Monticello.
What is the current value of a 1965 Nickel?
In circulated condition, values range from $0.10 to $0.20. Uncirculated or rare varieties can be worth much more—up to $1,000 or more.
Why is the 1965 Nickel considered special?
While regular circulation coins were often low in quality, the Mint also produced SMS coins with a proof-like finish and no mint marks, making them highly collectible.
Where is the mint mark located on a 1965 Nickel?
No mint marks were used between 1965 and 1967. Normally, mint marks appear above Monticello or near the date.