1957 Nickel Worth: Key Factors and Price Guide

Would you like to create a collection that comprises non-mainstream (somewhat unpopular) relics of the past? Indeed, this might not sound appealing at first, but believe us – it is worth it. Treasures in disguise can shoot harder, but the most vital part is to spot them on time. 

One of the coins that might be hidden behind its greater, more powerful issues is the 1957 Jefferson nickel. But how much does it cost in 2025? How to identify this coin, and what factors determine its value both in the short and long term?

A Quick History of the 1957 Nickel

Since its introduction in 1938, the Jefferson nickel series has long been a symbol of true American coinage. The 1957 nickel is an inconspicuous but vital part of this series. The design, developed by Felix Schlag, honors Thomas Jefferson, one of the nation's Founding Fathers. This was a great replacement for the preceding Buffalo nickel that featured a Native American chief on the obverse and an American bison on the reverse side. 

Unlike earlier coins made of silver or other precious metals, the 1957 US nickel was a practically useful coin that exceeded the limitations and costs of precious metals and emphasized its utility. Besides, it was about consistency and production standards. Although one may not notice any significant redesigns or overhauls that year, minor deviations like die errors, special designations, mint marks, and higher grades might increase the coin's appeal and reveal its stronger sides in the end.

What about the appearance of the nickel 1957? How should we identify it with the naked eye? 

Coins do not lie, as they should be created on the basis of standards that define the whole series from the very beginning until its dawn. However, if all the coins were the same, how could some be more valuable? 

Key Factors That Influence the Value

Now that we know the background and characteristics of the coin, let us turn to the 1957 nickel value. Obviously enough, prices do vary according to the type of the coin, its mint marks, imperfections, designations, and whatnot. So, these are the primary elements collectors look at when determining the value of a 1957 nickel.

Mint Marks and Mintage Figures

The 1957 nickel was minted at two locations:

• Philadelphia Mint: 1957 Nickel No Mint Mark, 39,655,952 pieces (regular + proof versions).

• Denver Mint: 1957 D Nickel, 136,828,900 pieces.

As one may notice, the Philadelphia Mint produced significantly fewer units of currency than the one located in Denver. This is exactly why some exceptional instances from Philadelphia may cost more. 

1957 Nickel Errors

Errors cannot but affect the value for good. To be more precise, errors represent instances that have never been meant to be perfect, but new, fresh, exclusive. These usually include coins struck on a different planchet (e.g., struck on a cent planchet, doubled die sides, off-center strikes, RPMs (repunched mint marks), and even more.

Proof Coins

The 1957 proof nickels represent the more exquisite side of numismatics, as this issue was released especially for collectors and those who appreciate coins in general. As such, they have a mirror-like finish and fine features since they were minted with the use of polished dies and planchets.

Mintage of 1957 Proof Nickels: Approximately 1,247,952 pieces (Philadelphia).

Designations

Besides, each series has its own designations that refer to some specific features of the coin. These abbreviations are always put in the name of the coin to make it easier for collectors to quickly scan the appearance. Anyway, the value of a 1957 nickel is increased by the following designations:

• FS (Full Steps): Refers to coins with fully visible steps on Monticello’s staircase on the reverse. This requires exceptional strike quality, which is why collectors opt for this variation in particular.

• PR (Proof): Indicates a proof coin with a high level of production quality.

• Cameo and Deep Cameo: Proof coins with frosted designs and mirror-like backgrounds.

Grades

The grade of a 1957 nickel also matters. When taken to the professional grading services, coins are assessed based on their level of preservation, ranging from flawless uncirculated specimens to deeply worn circulated coins:

• Circulated Grades (G-VF): Coins in Good (G) to Very Fine (VF) conditions; generally worth a face value of 5 cents (in case, these do not exhibit higher grades and conveniences you might have).

• Mint State Grades (MS): Uncirculated coins with the grades MS60 or higher. 

• Proof Grades (PR): Proof nickels with high grades (PR65 and above), especially with Cameo (CAM) or Deep Cameo (DCAM) designations.

Price Guide for the 1957 Nickel

How much is a 1957 nickel worth? This is one of the first (yet main) questions that tortures those who wish to obtain (or have already obtained) this coin. Here is a detailed guide to the 1957 Jefferson nickel value based on its condition, mint mark, and unique designations.

1. Circulated Coins 

Coins that have been in circulation usually demonstrate signs of wear. Although these are not particularly common, beginners may easily start with such coins instead. 

*Approximate values; subject to fluctuations. 

2. Uncirculated Coins

Uncirculated coins are graded on the Sheldon scale from MS60 to MS70, and the higher the grade, the higher the price. 

*Approximate values; subject to fluctuations. 

3. Proof Coins

In 1957, proof issues were only produced by the Philadelphia Mint, but they were not as simple as one may think. In fact, these were released in 3 different versions, i.e., designations: PR proper, Cameo (CAM), and Deep Cameo (DCAM), with the latter being the most valuable.

*Approximate values; subject to fluctuations. 

To get an accurate valuation, consider professional grading or use numismatic apps like Coin ID Scanner. This can provide one with instant identification, collection management, community engagement, and even more. Try now to explore the full potential of your nickels. Good luck!

Sources: 

1. https://www.pcgs.com/coinfacts/coin/1957-5c-fs/84061 

2. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nickel_(United_States_coin)