The 1947 Nickel Value: What Is Its True Price?

Have you ever wondered if your nickel could be worth more than just five cents? The 1947 Jefferson nickel might surprise you. 

You may have already heard about its rare errors, mint mark mysteries or simply its age. The 1947 coin has been an interesting specimen for many collectors for decades. But what exactly determines its price, and how to check old coin value​? Today you will find out.

A Few Words about Its History

The 1947 Jefferson nickel was born in a post-WWII America. It was a time when the country was adjusting to peacetime economics. Jefferson coins had already been in circulation since 1938 (they replaced the Buffalo one). 

The year 1947 was a significant time in American history, marking the post-World War II recovery era. The U.S. economy was transitioning from wartime production to peacetime growth, and this shift influenced many aspects of daily life, including coinage.

During World War II (1942–1945), Jefferson coins were made with a special 35% silver composition to conserve nickel for military purposes. This version, known as the "War Nickel," also featured a large mint mark above Monticello on the reverse. However, in 1946, the U.S. Mint returned to the traditional pre-war composition of 75% copper and 25% nickel, which continued with the 1947 issue.

The coin was designed by Felix Schlag. It features a left-facing bust of Thomas Jefferson on the obverse and his beloved Monticello on the reverse. The design stayed consistent for over six decades. Let us talk about it in more detail. 

Design & Composition

The obverse shows Jefferson's stoic profile, flanked by "IN GOD WE TRUST" and "LIBERTY" with the date. The reverse features Monticello, Jefferson's architectural masterpiece, with "E PLURIBUS UNUM" above and "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" and "FIVE CENTS" below.

While it might look like silver, here is a true fact: is 1947 nickel silver? Nope! The 1947 nickel silver content is zero, just like in the 1962 nickel. Its composition is the classic 75% copper and 25% nickel. This, in turn, gives it that silver-like sheen.

Mint Marks, Where to Find Them, Values

Where is the mint mark on a 1947 nickel? Flip it over. Look to the right of Monticello. If you see a "D," it's from Denver; an "S" means San Francisco; no mint mark? That’s Philadelphia.

1947 Nickel No Mint Mark Value

As you already know, it was produced in Philadelphia. These coins are the most common. But 1947 nickel value no mint mark can still surprise you, especially in pristine condition.

1947 D Nickel Value

The 1947 nickel D mint mark coins hail from Denver. Their values tend to be slightly higher due to lower mintage numbers.

1947 S Nickel Value

The San Francisco mint had the smallest output. Mostly it is minted for collectors. The 1947 S Jefferson Nickel is part of the Jefferson Nickel series, first introduced in 1938 to replace the Buffalo one. It is identifiable by the small "S" mint mark located on the reverse of the coin, to the right of Monticello.

Disclaimer: Coin values fluctuate based on market trends and collector demand. Always consult a professional before selling or buying.

Errors and Rare Finds

Now, let us talk about the 1947 nickel error list as a collector’s playground.

Doubled Dies

This is one of the most intriguing errors. While some examples are rare for 1947, subtle doubling can be found in the inscriptions "MONTICELLO" and "FIVE CENTS." Depending on clarity, these can fetch $25 to $100.

Re-punched Mint Marks (RPM)

Manual mint mark punching often led to double impressions. The 1947 D nickel value with an RPM can jump to $50 or more. Total price also depends on condition.

Off-Center Strikes

The more off-center, the better. Coins missing 5-10% of the design may sell for $10-$20, while a 50% off-center coin with clear date and mint mark can command $100+.

Die Cracks & Cuds

These happen when the die itself cracks. They create raised lines on the coin, often sought after for their unique appearance. Values vary widely but typically range from $20-$75.

The 1947 Henning Nickel

An infamous counterfeit by Francis Henning, missing the large wartime mint mark. Ironically, these fakes are now collectible, valued at $20-$50 or more depending on condition.

So, what makes a 1947 nickel rare? It is all about condition, errors and mint marks. The rarest? High-grade coins with Full Steps (perfectly struck Monticello stairs) and rare error 1947 nickel varieties. Mint errors, e.g., double dies or off-center strikes, significantly boost value, especially when combined with high-grade preservation.

Know Your Coin

If you know your nickel, it is half the fun. Wondering, is a 1947 nickel worth anything? It just might be. To get an instant evaluation, try the Coin ID Scanner app—a handy tool for identifying and pricing your coins, any coin you want, even the 1963 nickel, on the spot.

FAQs

1. How much is a 1947 nickel worth?

It ranges from face value to hundreds of dollars. Everything depends on condition, mint mark and errors. Check it out on auction sites or at professional grading service. 

2. Is 1947 nickel silver?

No, it contains 75% copper and 25% nickel, with no silver content.

3. What is the 1947 nickel mint mark location?

It is located on the reverse side of the coin, to the right of Monticello (Thomas Jefferson's home) and just below the inscription "E PLURIBUS UNUM."

Details:

1. "S": Indicates the coin was minted in San Francisco.

2. "D": Indicates the coin was minted in Denver.

3. No Mint Mark: Indicates the coin was minted in Philadelphia (Philadelphia coins from this period typically lack a mint mark).

Key Points:

The mint mark is small and positioned between Monticello’s right side and the rim of the coin.

For the 1947 specimen, the mint mark is found on the reverse because Jefferson Nickels minted from 1938 to 1964 had the mint mark in this location.

In 1968, the mint mark was moved to the obverse, just below the date.

Using a magnifying glass can help to clearly identify the mint mark, especially on worn coins.

Sources:

1. https://www.coinstudy.com/1947-nickel-value.html

2. https://www.americanbullion.com/1947-nickel-value/