1979-S Type 1 Jefferson Nickel Value: Complete Expert Guide

The 1979-S Type 1 Jefferson Nickel is worth anywhere from $1 in typical proof condition to over $500 for high-grade Deep Cameo specimens. While these coins were minted specifically for collectors, they frequently turn up in old family collections or estate sales, making them a common find for curious hobbyists.

Condition/Grade	Estimated Value (USD)
PR 65 (Standard)	$1.50 – $3.00
PR 69 Deep Cameo (Type 1)	$15.00 – $25.00
PR 70 Deep Cameo (Type 1)	$150.00 – $600.00

Understanding the 1979-S Type 1 Mint Mark

If you have recently discovered a shiny nickel in a plastic case or an old coin holder, you likely have a “Proof” coin. In 1979, the United States Mint produced special proof sets at the San Francisco Mint, denoted by the “S” mint mark. However, 1979 was a transitional year for the minting equipment, which led to two distinct varieties of that “S” mark. Using a top coin identifier and value app is the fastest way for beginners to differentiate between common dates and these specific mint varieties.

The “Type 1” variety is characterized by a “Filled S.” This means the mint mark on the coin looks a bit blobby or indistinct. The loops of the “S” are almost filled with metal, making the letter look thick and less defined. This occurred because the punch used to create the dies was wearing down. Late in the year, the Mint realized the quality was dropping and replaced the punch with a much clearer, more refined “S,” which collectors now call the Type 2.

Because Type 1 was the standard for most of the year, it is generally more common than the Type 2. However, that doesn’t mean it lacks value. If you are examining your change and want to be sure, the CoinKnow app can help you zoom in on the mint mark to see if those loops are open or closed. It’s a vital tool for any casual collector who doesn’t want to miss out on a potential payday.

What Makes a 1979-S Jefferson Nickel Rare?

For most people, a nickel is just five cents. But for a 1979-S Type 1 Jefferson Nickel, the value is determined entirely by “Eye Appeal” and technical perfection. Since these coins were never intended for circulation, they aren’t “rare” in the sense that they are hard to find. Millions of proof sets were sold to the public in 1979. What makes a specific coin rare is its state of preservation.

Most proof nickels found today have small scratches from being handled or have developed a cloudy “haze” over the years. A 1979-S nickel that has remained in a vacuum-sealed environment and exhibits a “Deep Cameo” finish is where the real money lies. This is when the portrait of Thomas Jefferson looks frosted and white, while the background (field) of the coin looks like a deep, black mirror.

Checking current price metrics for 1979-S proof nickels reveals that while lower-grade versions are affordable, the top-tier specimens are highly sought after by registry set collectors. If your coin looks absolutely flawless under a magnifying glass, you might be holding a hundred-dollar bill in the form of a nickel. Identifying these subtle differences is much easier when you use CoinKnow to compare your coin against high-resolution reference photos.

Variety Type	Market Rarity	Average Price
Type 1 (Filled S)	Common	$2 – $5
Type 2 (Clear S)	Scarce	$15 – $40
Type 1 (Perfect PR70)	Very Rare	$400+

Grading and the “Deep Cameo” Effect

To understand the 1979-S Type 1 Jefferson Nickel value, you must understand grading. Professional graders at services like PCGS or NGC use a 70-point scale. A “PR 70” is a perfect coin with no visible flaws under 5x magnification. For the 1979-S nickel, the distinction of “DCAM” (Deep Cameo) is essential.

Without the Deep Cameo designation, a 1979 nickel is usually just worth a few dollars. The “Cameo” effect happens when the mint treats the dies with chemicals or lasers to create a contrast. In 1979, the technology wasn’t as consistent as it is today. Finding a coin where the frosting is heavy and the mirrors are deep and dark is the goal.

When you look at your nickel, hold it under a bright desk lamp. Do you see your own reflection perfectly in the background? Does the face of Jefferson look like it’s covered in a fine white powder? If the answer is yes, you should certainly investigate further. You can find more comprehensive 1979 Jefferson Nickel value listings to see how much of a premium “Deep Cameo” adds to your specific variety.

Type 1 vs. Type 2: How to Tell the Difference

For many everyday Americans, spotting the difference between a Type 1 and Type 2 “S” mint mark is the hardest part. The 1979-S Type 1 “Filled S” is the most likely one you will encounter. The “S” has a very small center area, and the serifs (the ends of the letter) often blend into the curves. It looks like a small, chunky blob of metal.

The Type 2 “Clear S,” which was introduced later in 1979, has a very distinct shape. The ends of the “S” are bulbous and separated from the center of the letter. The openings (apertures) in the loops are clear and easy to see. If you have a magnifying glass or a jewelry loupe, the difference is night and day.

If you don’t have professional equipment, don’t worry. The CoinKnow app allows you to snap a photo and instantly identifies the mint mark style for you. Collectors generally prefer the Type 2 because it was the “corrected” version and had a lower mintage at the tail end of the year, but a perfect Type 1 can still command a massive premium at auction.

Feature	Type 1 (Filled)	Type 2 (Clear)
Mint Mark Clarity	Indistinct, “blob-like”	Sharp, defined edges
Center of the ‘S’	Almost touching/filled	Wide, clear opening
Mintage Period	Early to Mid 1979	Late 1979 only

Common Errors Found on 1979 Jefferson Nickels

While the Type 1 vs. Type 2 debate takes up most of the spotlight, there are other reasons a 1979 nickel might be worth more than its face value. Error coins are a huge market in the United States. While errors on proof coins are rare because quality control is much higher than for coins made for circulation, they do exist.

Look for “Double Die” errors. This is where the die that strikes the coin has a slight ghosting or doubling effect on the lettering or the date. On a 1979 nickel, look closely at the words “IN GOD WE TRUST.” If you see extra lines or a thickened appearance to the letters, you might have a rare variety.

Other errors include “clipped planchets,” where the coin looks like a bite was taken out of the side, or “off-center” strikes. Because 1979-S coins were proof-struck, finding one of these errors is like finding a needle in a haystack—and it could be worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars to the right buyer.

How to Sell Your 1979-S Jefferson Nickel

If you’ve identified that you have a 1979-S Type 1 Jefferson Nickel and it looks to be in excellent condition, you might be wondering how to turn that metal into cash. For common PR 65 coins, your local coin shop might give you a dollar or two. However, for high-end specimens, you have better options.

Online marketplaces like eBay are great for selling “raw” (unauthenticated) coins to other hobbyists. However, if you believe your coin is a “Perfect 70,” you should consider having it graded by a professional service. Once graded, these coins can be sold through major auction houses where serious collectors bid.

Always remember to handle your coins with care. Never clean a proof nickel with cloth or soap, as this will leave tiny scratches that ruin the “Deep Cameo” finish and destroy the coin’s value. Hold it only by the edges and keep it in a protective flip or capsule until you are ready to have it appraised.

FAQ

Q: Can I find a 1979-S Type 1 Nickel in my pocket change?

A: It is very unlikely. “S” mint mark coins from 1979 were only sold in Proof Sets for collectors. If you find one in circulation, it is because someone broke open a set and spent the coins. Because they have been handled, they will likely be “impaired proofs” and worth only a small premium.

Q: Which 1979 nickel is the most valuable?

A: The most valuable is the 1979-S Type 2 (Clear S) in a PR 70 Deep Cameo grade. However, a 1979-S Type 1 in a perfect PR 70 grade is also worth hundreds of dollars. Business-strike nickels (without the S) from Philadelphia or Denver are usually only worth face value unless they are in pristine, uncirculated condition.

Q: Is “Filled S” the same as a mint error?

A: Technically, no. It is considered a variety rather than an error. It happened because the minting punch itself was worn down. Collectors treat it as a standard part of the 1979 production run, though they generally value it slightly lower than the crisp “Clear S” variety.

Q: How can I tell if my nickel is “Deep Cameo”?

A: Look for a stark contrast. The background should be so reflective it looks like a black mirror, and the portrait of Jefferson should look like it was painted with white frosting. If the whole coin is just shiny without that “frosted” look, it is a standard proof.