2019 Nickel Value Checker: Errors List, “D”, “S” & “P” Mint Mark Worth

Did you find a 2019 nickel in your pocket change and wonder if it could be worth real money? You’re not alone.

Most 2019 nickels are worth face value in worn condition, but the right combination of mint mark, strike quality, and errors can push values into the hundreds of dollars.

Standard 2019-P and 2019-D nickels are worth $0.30 to $0.61 in uncirculated condition, while the 2019-S proof nickel starts at $5.24. The real excitement lies in Full Steps (FS) examples and error coins — with some 2019 nickel errors selling for anywhere from $20 to over $900.

 

2019 Nickel Value By Variety

Understanding 2019 Nickel Value starts with knowing which variety you have. The chart below covers all five major types: Philadelphia and Denver circulation strikes (with and without Full Steps designation), plus the San Francisco Deep Cameo proof.

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

 

Top 10 Most Valuable 2019 Nickel Worth Money

The 2019 nickel market has shown clear momentum since 2021, with premium specimens appreciating substantially. The biggest price jumps happen between MS67 and MS68 — a difference of just one grade point can mean hundreds of dollars.

Denver Mint issues dominate the top auction records. This reflects collector recognition of the 2019-D’s above-average strike quality and its exclusive availability in special PCGS designations like First Strike, First Day of Issue, and the Explore & Discover Set.

Modern coin collectors have shifted their focus from simply completing date sets. Today, population-scarce, high-grade specimens with Full Steps designation are the true prizes in this series.

 

History of the 2019 Nickel Value and the Jefferson Series

The Jefferson nickel has been in continuous production since 1938, making it one of the longest-running coin designs in American history. To date, the U.S. Mint has produced over 63 billion Jefferson nickels across all dates.

The 2019 nickel belongs to the “Return to Monticello” era that began in 2006. That year, the U.S. Mint debuted the first forward-facing presidential portrait on any American circulating coin, designed by Jamie Franki and sculpted by Donna Weaver, based on Rembrandt Peale’s 1800 painting of Thomas Jefferson.

Before 2006, the series went through the Westward Journey commemorative phase of 2004–2005, which honored the bicentennial of the Lewis and Clark Expedition. Those special reverses drew major collector attention and reignited interest in the Jefferson series as a whole.

By 2019, the design had matured into its current form. Collectors had shifted their focus from date-and-mint sets toward condition rarities — particularly the Full Steps designation and noteworthy error coins.

The 2019-P mintage of 567,854,400 was actually about 9.8% lower than the 2018-P output, reflecting declining demand for physical coinage as digital payments grew. The 2019-D mintage reached 527,040,000.

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Is Your 2019 Nickel Rare? Understanding 2019 Nickel Value by Rarity

For detailed information about your coin’s specific variety and current market value, our Coin Value Checker App provides accurate rarity and value assessment for your coins.

 

Key Features That Affect 2019 Nickel Value

Before diving into individual varieties, it helps to know what makes one 2019 nickel more valuable than another. Two features matter most: the Full Steps (FS) designation and the mint mark.

Full Steps (FS) is awarded by PCGS and NGC when the steps at the base of Monticello on the reverse are complete and uninterrupted. There are six steps total on Monticello, including the portico (the porch) as Step 1 and the foundation as Step 6. PCGS awards the FS designation for five or six full steps; NGC distinguishes between 5FS and 6FS separately since 2004.

A Full Steps coin can be worth 10x to 20x more than a non-FS coin at the same grade. This makes FS the single most important quality factor for 2019 nickels in uncirculated condition.

The mint mark — P for Philadelphia, D for Denver, or S for San Francisco — also matters greatly. The San Francisco Mint only produced proof coins in 2019, while P and D served commerce.

The Obverse Of The 2019 Nickel

The obverse features Thomas Jefferson’s pioneering forward-facing portrait — the only circulating U.S. denomination to show a president looking directly at the viewer. This design was derived from Rembrandt Peale’s 1800 painting and is the work of artist Jamie Franki, sculpted by Donna Weaver.

Jefferson’s own handwritten word “Liberty” in script appears in the lower right field above the date. “IN GOD WE TRUST” curves along the upper rim, while the year “2019” appears below the portrait with the mint mark just beneath: “P” for Philadelphia, “D” for Denver, or “S” for San Francisco proofs.

The Reverse Of The 2019 Nickel

The reverse showcases Felix Schlag’s iconic Monticello design, the same basic reverse that debuted in 1938. The 2006 redesign enhanced the architectural relief in the dome, balconies, doorway, and window elements, giving the building much greater visual depth than earlier versions.

“E PLURIBUS UNUM” (Latin for “Out of Many, One”) arches across the top, while “MONTICELLO” labels the building below. “FIVE CENTS” forms an arc beneath the mansion, and “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” completes the outer legend.

Other Physical Features Of The 2019 Nickel

The 2019 nickel is composed of 75% copper and 25% nickel — the standard composition used since the series began in 1938, except for the silver Wartime issues of 1942–1945. The coin measures 21.20 mm in diameter, weighs 5.00 grams, and has a plain (smooth) edge.

The current metal melt value of a 2019-P nickel is approximately $0.0681, meaning these coins are worth far more as collectibles than as raw metal.

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The Easy Way to Know Your 2019 Nickel Value

2019 Nickel Value Guides

2019-P Nickel Value: Philadelphia Mint

The Philadelphia Mint produced 567,854,400 nickels in 2019 — a large number, but about 9.8% fewer than the 2018-P output. Philadelphia nickels carry the “P” mint mark below Jefferson’s portrait, a tradition that began in 1980 when the Mint first added its mark to nickels.

In circulated condition, a 2019-P nickel is worth its face value of 5 cents. In uncirculated condition (MS60–MS65), values range from $0.30 to $0.61. With the Full Steps (FS) designation at the premium MS68FS grade, a 2019-P nickel achieved an auction record of $195 on eBay on March 30, 2022, according to PCGS CoinFacts data.

The 2019-P also appears in a special Jamie Franki Signature FS variety — a PCGS-designated collectible celebrating the coin’s designer.

The evolving collector engagement with 2019-P nickels shows distinct peaks and valleys in market activity throughout recent months.

 

2019-D Nickel Value: Denver Mint

The Denver Mint struck 527,040,000 nickels in 2019. What makes the 2019-D stand out is that it frequently displays complete step separation on Monticello — making it a preferred choice for collectors hunting Full Steps examples.

An MS67+FS specimen achieved $237 at eBay in July 2019, and the Denver issue is the only 2019 nickel available in multiple exclusive PCGS designations: First Strike, First Day of Issue, and the Explore & Discover Set with Full Steps Prooflike (FS PL) qualities. These categories were not available for the 2019-P or 2019-S.

The 2019-D carries a melt value of approximately $0.0670, slightly differing from the Philadelphia coin due to minute manufacturing variations.

The 2019-D nickel maintains steady collector engagement as illustrated in the trading activity chart below.

 

2019-S DCAM Nickel Value: San Francisco Proof

The 2019-S nickel was made only as a proof coin — meaning it was never released for commerce. Proof coins are produced using hand-polished coin blanks (called planchets) that are individually fed into the press and struck at least twice with specially polished dies.

The result is a coin with mirror-like fields (backgrounds) and frosted raised design elements. When this contrast is very pronounced, grading services award the Deep Cameo (DCAM) designation. DCAM is the most desirable designation for proof coins. According to PCGS CoinFacts, the 2019-S proof is very well struck, and most examples grade at PR69 or PR70 DCAM.

A PR70DCAM specimen achieved $165 on eBay in February 2022. The starting value for a standard 2019-S in proof condition is $5.24, making it accessible for new collectors.

The superior Deep Cameo finish has sparked heightened collector demand, with activity showing dramatic increases throughout recent months.

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

 

Rare 2019 Nickel Error List and Values

Error coins are where ordinary 2019 nickels can become surprisingly valuable. Below are the most significant errors documented for this series, with known auction prices.

1. Die Chip Error (“Cud” Error)

A die chip error occurs when a small piece of the die’s surface breaks away. On 2019 Jefferson nickels, these chips most often appear on Monticello’s columns and steps. The damaged area of the die leaves a raised blob or irregular bump on the coin’s surface.

One of the most recognized die chip errors in the 2019 series appears on the left side of Monticello on the reverse. A 2019 Jefferson nickel with this die chip error sold for $165 at auction. Minor chips typically bring $20–$50, while large cuds that reach the rim can exceed $150 in uncirculated condition.

2. Broad Strike Error

A broad strike happens when the collar die — the ring that keeps the coin round during striking — fails to hold the planchet in place. Without the collar, the metal spreads outward, creating a coin that is wider than normal with a plain edge and sometimes incomplete design elements at the margins.

Market values range from $75–$150 for moderate broad strikes. Dramatic examples with significant diameter expansion can reach $200–$400, especially if the date and mint mark remain clearly visible.

3. Off-Center Strike

An off-center strike results when the blank coin is not properly centered under the die at the moment of striking. Part of the coin shows the design; the rest is blank metal. The higher the percentage of off-center displacement, the more valuable the coin — as long as the date remains readable.

Coins with 5–10% displacement and complete dates start at $25–$50. Pieces showing 15–25% displacement bring $100–$300. Extreme examples over 30% off-center with a visible date can reach $400–$600, especially in mint state.

4. Feeder Finger Error

A feeder finger is the mechanical arm that places coin blanks into the collar before striking. If the feeder finger breaks or becomes damaged, it can scratch the coin’s surface, leaving distinctive parallel horizontal raised lines across Jefferson’s portrait or Monticello. This error is particularly associated with Philadelphia Mint 2019 nickels.

A 2019 nickel with a feeder finger error sold for $50 at auction. Look for consistent, parallel raised lines — they distinguish this error from random post-mint scratches.

5. Struck Through Grease Error

When too much lubricating grease accumulates in the die, it blocks metal flow into certain areas, resulting in weak, blurry, or missing design details. The “smoking Jefferson” variety — where grease creates what appears to be smoke coming from Jefferson’s mouth — has become one of the most talked-about 2019 nickel errors on social media.

A circulated 2019 nickel with the “smoking Jefferson” strike-through sold for $25 at auction. More subtle examples bring $10–$20, while especially dramatic shapes can reach $40 or more.

6. Lamination Error

Lamination errors occur when impurities contaminate the metal used to make the planchet. The contamination causes the metal to crack along a horizontal plane, creating flakes or peeling on the coin’s surface. These errors can develop before or after striking.

A 2019 nickel with a visibly peeling lamination error on the obverse sold for $50 at auction. These are rare compared to die chip or off-center errors and attract both error specialists and casual collectors.

7. Re-Punched Mint Mark (RPM) Error

A Re-Punched Mint Mark (RPM) occurs when the mint mark impression on the die is struck more than once, with each impression landing at a slightly different angle or position. The result is a “doubled” or “shadowed” mint mark visible under magnification. Look for a faint secondary P or D beside or overlapping the primary mark.

A 2019 Jefferson nickel with a repunched mint mark error sold for $50 in circulated condition. Uncirculated examples with strong doubling command higher premiums.

8. Filled-In Eyes Error

This error results from die fill — metal or debris clogging the eye area of the Jefferson portrait die, causing the eyes to appear solid rather than properly recessed. The visual effect is unsettling, earning these coins the nickname “zombie Jefferson” nickels among some collectors.

A 2019 Jefferson nickel with fully filled-in eyes sold for $80 at auction. Partial eye filling typically brings $30–$50, while coins with both eyes fully obscured command the highest prices.

9. Missing Clad Layer Error

Although Jefferson nickels are struck in a solid 75% copper / 25% nickel alloy (not clad like dimes or quarters), a missing surface layer can still occur through planchet defects. The affected side may show unusual coloration or texture. Compare with the coin’s normal appearance — genuine planchet errors show sharp design detail alongside the defect, ruling out post-mint damage.

Examples of this type from the broader Jefferson series have sold for $100–$155 depending on the extent of the missing material.

10. Improper Alloy Mix Error

An improper alloy mix error happens when the proportions of copper and nickel in the planchet are off balance. Coins with too much nickel may develop a brassy or unusual coloration. These errors are rare and require professional verification to distinguish from environmental discoloration.

This is one of the harder errors to authenticate without a grading service — if you suspect this error, submit the coin to PCGS or NGC (the two leading third-party grading services) for authentication.

 

Where to Sell Your 2019 Nickel?

Now that you’ve determined your coin’s worth, you may be wondering about the best platforms to sell it. Check out the comprehensive guide below, complete with pros and cons for each option.

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FAQ About 2019 Nickel Value

1. What is the highest auction price ever recorded for a 2019 nickel?

The highest documented sale for a standard 2019 nickel variety was $237, achieved by a 2019-D MS67+FS specimen on eBay in July 2019. For the Philadelphia Mint, the record is $195 for a 2019-P MS68FS, sold on eBay on March 30, 2022, per PCGS CoinFacts. Error coins can bring higher prices: a dramatic off-center strike in uncirculated condition can reach $400–$600.

2. What does “Full Steps” mean on a Jefferson nickel, and why does it matter for 2019 Nickel Value?

Full Steps (FS) means that five or six of the steps at the base of Monticello on the reverse are complete, clean, and unbroken. PCGS awards the FS designation for either five or six full steps; NGC separately designates 5FS and 6FS since 2004. A Full Steps coin can be worth 10x to 20x more than a non-FS coin at the same grade — making it the most important quality factor for uncirculated 2019 nickels.

3. Which 2019 nickel variety is worth the most money?

For regular-issue coins, the 2019-D in MS67+FS or higher commands the strongest auction prices. The 2019-D is the only 2019 nickel available in the exclusive Explore & Discover Set and First Day of Issue PCGS designations, which boost premiums significantly. For proof coins, a 2019-S PR70DCAM sold for $165 in February 2022. Error coins in high grades can exceed all of these values.

4. Should I clean my 2019 nickel before selling it?

Never clean any coin you intend to sell or have graded. Cleaning destroys the original mint luster, creates microscopic scratches visible under magnification, and is immediately detected by professional coin graders at PCGS and NGC. A cleaned coin will receive a “details” grade and sells for a fraction of an equivalent unclean coin. Even gentle cleaning permanently reduces value.

5. How do I find 2019 nickel errors in pocket change?

Check each 2019 nickel under a good light source and use a 5x to 10x magnifying glass or jeweler’s loupe. Look for unusual rim width (broad strikes), off-center designs with blank areas, raised bumps on smooth surfaces (die chips), parallel raised lines (feeder finger errors), and weak or missing design details (struck-through grease). Comparing suspicious coins against a normal example helps spot differences quickly. Bank rolls of nickels often yield better results than loose change.

6. What are PCGS and NGC, and do I need them for my 2019 nickel?

PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service, founded 1986) and NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Company, founded 1987) are the two leading independent coin authentication and grading services. They grade coins on the 70-point Sheldon Scale and seal them in tamper-evident plastic holders. Both services back their grades with financial guarantees. For a 2019 nickel worth over $50 — particularly Full Steps or error coins — professional certification is strongly recommended, as it makes the coin easier to sell and confirms authenticity.

7. How can I tell the difference between machine doubling and a genuine doubled die on a 2019 nickel?

Machine doubling (also called strike doubling) creates a flat, shelf-like shadow on design elements that has no additional value. A genuine doubled die (DDO for obverse, DDR for reverse) shows distinct, fully rounded, separated images with the same depth as the original design. On 2019 nickels, look for doubling in the inscriptions LIBERTY, IN GOD WE TRUST, MONTICELLO, and FIVE CENTS. True doubled dies are far more valuable — machine doubling adds little to no premium.

8. What is the Deep Cameo (DCAM) designation on the 2019-S nickel?

Deep Cameo (DCAM) describes the strong visual contrast between the frosted, matte-finished raised design elements (Jefferson’s portrait, Monticello) and the deeply mirror-like, reflective background fields on a proof coin. DCAM is the highest and most desirable cameo designation for proof coins. The 2019-S is very well struck, and most examples grade PR69 or PR70 DCAM, making them relatively accessible for collectors despite their premium appearance.

9. Is the 2019 nickel made of silver?

No. The 2019 nickel is composed of 75% copper and 25% nickel — no silver at all. The only Jefferson nickels made with silver are the Wartime issues from late 1942 through 1945, which used a 35% silver, 56% copper, and 9% manganese alloy to conserve nickel for military use during World War II. You can identify those silver war nickels by the large mint mark (P, D, or S) placed above Monticello’s dome on the reverse.

10. How does the 2019 nickel mintage compare to other years, and does lower mintage mean higher value?

The 2019-P mintage of 567,854,400 was about 9.8% lower than 2018-P production, reflecting the broader decline in physical coin demand as digital payments increased. The 2019-D mintage was 527,040,000. By comparison, the lowest-mintage business strike in the entire Jefferson series is the 1950-D at just 2,630,000 coins. For modern coins like the 2019 nickel, mintage alone does not determine value — condition, Full Steps designation, and error status matter far more than how many were made.