2008 Nickel Value (Errors List, “P”, “D” & “S” Mint Mark Worth)

The 2008 nickel value ranges from $0.15 for circulated pieces to $10.00 for pristine Full Steps specimens in MS condition, according to recent market data.

While most 2008 nickels remain common circulation finds, collectors focus on a specific detail that separates ordinary coins from valuable ones: the steps on Monticello’s facade. Full Steps examples—where five or six horizontal lines show complete clarity across the staircase—require exceptional strike quality that the Denver and Philadelphia mints rarely achieved.

This demanding standard creates genuine scarcity in an otherwise abundant series, with fewer than a dozen MS67 examples known for certain varieties. The challenge lies in finding specimens where every architectural line remains sharp and unbroken.

 

2008 Nickel Value By Variety

The 2008 nickel value chart shows the current market prices for different types and conditions of nickels from that year, helping you understand what your coins might be worth.

If you know the grade of your coin, you can find the exact price below in the Value Guides section.

Also Read: Top 100 Most Valuable Jefferson Nickels Worth Money List (1938-Present)

 

Top 10 Most Valuable 2008 Nickel Worth Money

Based on the auction data from 2009 to present, the 2008-P Satin Finish nickel graded MS-69 leads the value chart at $2,995. This high price reflects both the special production method and the rarity of near-perfect examples.

Satin Finish coins were made exclusively for uncirculated mint sets. The burnishing process created a unique matte texture, but this soft surface easily shows imperfections. Finding MS-69 specimens proved extremely difficult.

Denver mint coins demonstrate how grade differences affect value. A 2008-D at MS-66 reaches $383, while the same coin at MS-65 drops to $125. Moving down to MS-62 brings just $94, showing values decline as condition decreases.

A 2008-P (MS-67) coin sells for $940 because it has the “Full Steps” designation. A regular 2008-P coin at similar grade sells for much less, demonstrating the importance of strike quality.

 

History Of The 2008 Nickel

The 2008 nickel arrived during one of America’s most turbulent economic periods. As the nation faced the deepest recession since the Great Depression, the U.S. Mint continued producing coins that reflected stability and tradition.

This year marked the third consecutive year of the “Return to Monticello” design series, which had begun in 2006. After the Westward Journey commemorative series ended in 2005, the Mint chose to blend innovation with heritage. The obverse featured Jamie Franki’s forward-facing portrait of Thomas Jefferson, based on Rembrandt Peale’s 1800 painting. This modern interpretation showed Jefferson looking directly at viewers rather than in profile.

The reverse brought back Felix Schlag’s Monticello design, which had originally appeared on nickels from 1938 to 2003. However, the 2008 version included enhanced architectural details made possible by improved minting technology. The mansion’s columns, windows, and dome received sharper definition compared to earlier decades.

While financial institutions struggled and unemployment rose throughout 2008, the Mint maintained coin production for commerce. The nickel’s five-cent denomination remained unchanged since 1866, providing continuity during uncertain times.

Also Read: Top 60+ Most Valuable Buffalo Nickels Worth Money

 

Is Your 2008 Nickel Rare?

Download the CoinValueChecker App to instantly check your 2008 nickel’s rarity. Our AI-powered tool provides accurate grading assessments and real-time pricing data, helping you identify valuable coins in your collection.

 

Key Features Of The 2008 Nickel

Understanding the design elements and physical attributes of the 2008 nickel helps identify authentic coins and assess their condition. This section examines the artistic features on both sides of the coin, along with technical specifications like composition and dimensions.

The Obverse Of The 2008 Nickel

The obverse features Thomas Jefferson in a forward-facing pose. The president’s bust occupies the left side of the coin, showing his head and shoulders in detailed relief.

The word “LIBERTY” appears on the right side of Jefferson’s portrait, rendered in script that replicates Jefferson’s own handwriting taken from his draft of the Declaration of Independence. The motto “IN GOD WE TRUST” is positioned along the left edge of the coin.

Below Jefferson’s portrait sits the year 2008, with the mint mark appearing just beneath the date. Philadelphia coins show either no mark or a “P,” Denver pieces display a “D,” and San Francisco proofs carry an “S.”

The Reverse Of The 2008 Nickel

The reverse displays Monticello, Thomas Jefferson’s Virginia estate, in a straight-on architectural view. Felix Schlag originally designed this depiction in 1938, though the 2008 version benefits from enhanced engraving technology that creates sharper architectural details.

The Latin phrase “E PLURIBUS UNUM” curves along the top of the coin, translating to “out of many, one.” Below the building sits the word “MONTICELLO,” identifying Jefferson’s historic home.

The denomination “FIVE CENTS” appears beneath the building’s name, positioned in the middle-lower section. At the very bottom, “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” forms an arc along the coin’s lower edge.

Advanced minting techniques allowed engravers to capture fine details like the steps leading to Monticello’s entrance. Coins showing complete horizontal lines across all six steps receive the “Full Steps” designation, abbreviated as “FS,” which significantly increases their value to serious buyers.

Other Features Of The 2008 Nickel

The 2008 nickel measures 21.2 millimeters in diameter and weighs exactly 5 grams. Its thickness spans 1.95 millimeters from face to face. The edge remains completely smooth with no reeding or lettering, maintaining the traditional nickel appearance that dates back to 1866.

The coin’s composition consists of 75 percent copper and 25 percent nickel, creating the characteristic silver-colored appearance. This alloy has remained standard for nickels since 1946, following a brief wartime period when the Mint used a silver-based composition.

The metal content gives each 2008 nickel a base melt value of approximately 5.8 cents based on commodity prices.

Also Read: Top 100 Rarest Nickels Worth Money (Most Expensive)

 

2008 Nickel Mintage & Survival Data     

The 2008 nickel production reached over 625 million circulation strikes combined from Philadelphia and Denver mints. This high output occurred despite the financial crisis that year, meeting commercial demand before the dramatic production cuts of 2009.

San Francisco focused exclusively on proof production for enthusiasts. The Deep Cameo proof mintage of 2.17 million represents standard output for modern collector editions. These coins were intended solely for collectors rather than circulation.

Satin Finish varieties had the lowest production at 745,464 pieces per mint. These coins were sold only in uncirculated mint sets at premium prices. The restricted distribution method limited their availability compared to regular strikes.

The chart shows survival data remains undocumented for all 2008 nickel varieties. Without tracking systems for circulation coins, determining how many examples survive in various conditions proves impossible. And this lack of survival information means rarity assessments rely primarily on certified population reports and observed market scarcity.

Also Read: Jefferson Nickel Value (1938-Present)

 

The Easy Way to Know Your 2008 Nickel Value

Determining your 2008 nickel’s value requires examining mint marks, checking for Full Steps designation, and comparing condition against grading standards. This process demands expertise and reference materials most people don’t have.

The CoinValueChecker App simplifies everything with instant AI-powered identification and grading. Just snap a photo, and the app analyzes your coin’s condition, detects errors, and provides accurate market values based on current market data.

 

2008 Nickel Value Guides

The 2008 nickel series includes five distinct types across three mint facilities. Philadelphia and Denver produced regular circulation strikes for everyday commerce, with combined output exceeding 625 million coins. Both mints also struck Satin Finish special editions for uncirculated mint sets.

San Francisco created proof nickels exclusively in Deep Cameo finish for collectors. These coins feature frosted designs contrasting against mirror-like fields.

Each type serves different purposes within the collecting community. Circulation strikes offer affordable entry points, while proofs and Satin Finish pieces appeal to those seeking premium presentation quality.

• 2008-P Nickel
• 2008-D Nickel
• 2008-S DCAM Nickel
• 2008-P Satin Finish Special Strike Nickel
• 2008-D Satin Finish Special Strike Nickel

 

2008-P Nickel Value

The 2008-P Jefferson Nickel was minted at the Philadelphia Mint with a production of over 380 million coins, making it a high-mintage modern circulation issue.

Despite its large quantity, this coin displays distinct rarity stratification in the collector market. While relatively common in grades up to MS65, its scarcity becomes apparent when reaching MS66 grade with Full Steps designation.

The “Full Steps” feature refers to the complete and sharp strike detail visible on the steps at the base of Monticello on the coin’s reverse, a characteristic that significantly impacts grading.

According to PCGS auction data, an MS67FS graded 2008-P Jefferson Nickel achieved a remarkable sale price of $940 through Heritage Auctions in January 2016, establishing the auction record for this coin. The highest auction price for a regular MS 67 was only $70. Any specimens grading higher than MS67FS are exceedingly rare, and collectors should expect to pay certain premiums to acquire such high-grade examples.

From the perspective of trading frequency and collector interest, this coin maintains consistent appeal in the high-grade market segment.

 

2008-D Nickel Value 

The 2008-D Nickel comes from Denver Mint’s production line and shares the same history as most modern Jefferson nickels—plenty in quantity, but finding one worth collecting is quite difficult.

Denver Mint struck 345.6 million of these coins, and the vast majority went directly into circulation, suffering severe wear ever since. What makes premium coins stand out is not just the absence of scratches and bag marks; the real difference lies in whether Monticello’s steps are clearly visible during the striking process, and coins that meet this requirement are far fewer than one might think.

The market has proven the value of such coins. Basic uncirculated coins sell for a few dollars, but once you see an MS66 Full Steps coin, the value soars to around $260. In April 2020, an MS66 Full Steps specimen achieved a sale price of $383, hundreds of times higher than its face value.

The price gap between regular strikes and Full Steps specimens at the same grade level reflects the concentration of demand. Buyers are not pursuing the 2008-D itself, but rather the technical quality demonstrated by the small percentage of Denver Mint’s total output.

Current market activity shows a stable trend, with Full Steps specimens continuously receiving attention from enthusiasts.

 

2008-S DCAM Nickel Value

Unlike the circulation pieces from Philadelphia and Denver, the 2008-S Jefferson Nickel exists solely as a proof strike, minted in San Francisco, with a production of 2,169,561.

The “Deep Cameo” designation refers to the strong contrast between frosted design elements and mirror-like fields—a visual quality that modern proof production consistently achieves. Most proof coins fall into the PR69 DCAM grade level, trading at around $9-15, which reflects the reality that San Francisco’s proof facility produces large quantities of technically proficient coins.

The highest grade is PR70, meaning surface perfection with proper contrast. A PR70 DCAM proof coin sold for $250 in January 2023, which is approximately 25 times that of PR69.

The reason for such a price gap is that for Jefferson nickel proofs from this era, the difference between “near perfect” and “perfect” determines most of the pricing in the secondary market.

If you plan to collect a set of 2008 nickels, the 2008-S proof offers a PR69 DCAM entry option—affordable and representative of San Francisco’s technical standards. Pursuing a PR70 level requires a relatively high premium.

The auction record chart below shows the historical price performance of this coin in the open market.

The market activity chart reflects the circulation trend of the currency in different time periods.

 

2008-P Satin Finish Special Strike Nickel Value

The 2008-P Satin Finish nickel wasn’t struck for circulation—it came exclusively in Special Mint Sets with a production run of 745,464 pieces. The Satin Finish program ran from 2005 through 2010, targeting collectors who wanted something beyond standard mint state coins but didn’t want to pay proof premiums.

These coins were made using specially prepared dies and burnished planchets that create a distinctive matte-like surface, different from both regular circulation strikes and mirror-finish proofs.

Most examples came out of their sealed packaging in excellent condition, which means the typical piece grades somewhere in the SP67-SP69 range without much effort.

The level that separates ordinary collectibles from investment items is SP69 (with complete steps) – a SP69FS sample sold for $2995, indicating that even with modern technology, achieving both perfect surface and clear steps is still difficult. The trading price of ordinary SP69 coins without the “Full Steps” label is much lower, only $90, indicating that the quality of the coinage determines the actual value of this series of coins.

Market  activity indicate steady but modest interest from collectors completing mint set runs.

 

2008-D Satin Finish Special Strike Nickel Value 

The 2008-D Satin Finish nickel belongs to a finite six-year series (2005-2010) that appeals to modern set builders rather than investors chasing key dates.

These coins were only available through Special Mint Sets, which means acquiring one today requires either buying intact sets or purchasing individual certified examples from dealers who’ve already broken them apart.

The practical reality: most pieces grade SP67-SP69, creating a shallow value curve where condition differences don’t drive dramatic premiums until you reach the Full Steps tier.

For collectors of Jefferson commemorative coins and mintmarks, purchasing the 2008-D Satin Nickel is straightforward—just find a graded example within your budget, as this series isn’t typically about investment.

The secondary market for 2008-D satin nickels shows steady turnover among collectors filling type sets rather than speculation-driven activity.

Also Read: 22 Rare Nickel Errors List with Pictures (By Year)

 

Rare 2008 Nickel Error List

Error coins offer the most potential value in the 2008 nickel series. While regular circulation strikes remain common, production mistakes create unique pieces that attract serious buyers. These errors occur during various stages of the minting process, from planchet preparation through final striking.

1. Off-Center Strike Error

Off-center strikes happen when the planchet fails to align properly between the dies during striking. The coin receives its impression away from the intended center point, leaving blank areas on one side. A 15 percent misalignment typically shows partial design loss while retaining the date.

The severity determines market appeal. Examples with 20 to 50 percent displacement command higher prices than minor shifts. A 2008-D nickel graded MS-62 with 15 percent off-center placement sold for $620, demonstrating strong demand for dramatic examples.

2.  Die Crack Error

Die cracks form when stress fractures develop on worn dies during extended production runs. Metal flows into these cracks during striking, creating raised lines across the finished coin’s surface. The error appears as thin, irregular ridges that interrupt normal design elements.

Large or unusually positioned cracks attract more attention than small peripheral examples. A 2008-D nickel graded MS-61 featuring a prominent reverse die crack brought $405 at auction. Cracks crossing major design features like Jefferson’s portrait or Monticello typically sell for premiums.

3. Broad Strike Error

Broad strikes occur when the collar mechanism fails to contain the planchet properly during striking. Without lateral constraint, the metal spreads beyond normal diameter, creating an oversized coin with thin edges. The design remains centered but appears stretched across the expanded surface.

Dramatic examples showing significant size increase prove most desirable. A 2008-D nickel graded MS-65 with severe broad strike characteristics reached $920 in 2020. Coins combining broad strikes with other errors like die cracks command even higher values from specialized buyers.

 

Where To Sell Your 2008 Nickel?

After determining what your 2008 nickel is worth, finding the right selling platform becomes essential. Different marketplaces cater to different types of sellers and buyers. Here’s a breakdown of the most popular online venues, covering their key features, benefits, and drawbacks so you can make an informed decision.

Check out now: Best Places To Sell Coins Online (Pros & Cons) 

 

2008 Nickel Market Trend

*Market Trend Chart showing the number of people paying attention to this coin.

 

FAQ About The 2008 Nickel         

1. What determines the value of a 2008 nickel?

Most circulated 2008 nickels are worth face value, while uncirculated examples range from about 25 cents to a few dollars. The real value drivers are grade and Full Steps designation.

Full Steps refers to completely sharp and unbroken step details at Monticello’s base, which significantly increases value.

A 2008-D MS66 Full Steps specimen reached $383 at auction, while regular MS66 examples trade much lower. Mint mark matters too—P, D, and S versions have different production contexts.

Satin Finish pieces from special mint sets with 745,464 mintage command premiums over circulation strikes at equivalent grades.

2.  Should I collect 2008 nickels?

That depends on your collecting goals. For type collectors, one representative 2008 nickel completes the Return to Monticello design slot without significant expense.

These aren’t investment pieces—Denver alone struck over 345 million circulation pieces, ensuring abundance. However, high-grade Full Steps specimens offer technical collecting satisfaction.

Consider 2008 nickels suitable for educational collecting, completing sets, or pursuing condition rarity rather than speculative appreciation. They teach grading fundamentals without risking substantial capital.

3. Are 2008 nickels rare or valuable?

No, 2008 nickels aren’t rare in absolute terms. Denver produced 345.6 million circulation pieces, and Philadelphia contributed hundreds of millions more.

However, condition rarity exists at upper grades. While common in average condition, MS66 examples reach $250, and higher grades are genuinely scarce. The 2008-S proof had 2,169,561 minted—not rare, but not billions either.

Satin Finish varieties with 745,464 mintage represent the scarcest versions.

The distinction matters: these coins demonstrate condition rarity rather than absolute scarcity. Millions exist, but finding problem-free specimens with Full Steps in top grades proves difficult. They’re common enough to collect affordably, scarce enough at premium grades to reward careful selection.