Given the popularity of errors and varieties, new hobbyists might want to train their eye on reverses of the 1939 nickel across mint marks. These are relatively easy to find, and the double die can earn huge value rewards.
The reverse of the standard 1939 issues had a minor die flaw resulting in weakly struck steps of the Monticello device. See the difference of the strikes between the 38 and 40 reverses as depicted in PCGS CoinFacts:
Hobbyists often search for the weak strike of the 1938 reverse, looking for full steps there–and they exist–for higher values. Let’s compare MS67 full-steps versions:
Lower mint state FS examples of the 1938 reverse also trend higher.
So does the 1939-D version. At gem MS65 FS, the 1939-D reverse of 38 retails for $100 whereas the reverse of 40 retails for $80. Values are switched with the 1939-S as gem examples of the 38 reverse retailing at $260 whereas the 40 reverse retails at $265.
But the exercise here is not really in the values but in your ability to distinguish between the two reverses. Let’s take a closer look: with the 38 reverse at the left and the 40 reverse at the right:
Blocks of the steps are narrower and less defined in the 38 reverse and thicker in the 40 reverse. As noted earlier, steps are also sharper in the 40 reverse.
The ability to recognize these variations is important for newer hobbyists still training their eyes to identify types. In this case, microscope viewing tends to make the 38 look like the 40 reverse; so use a loupe under LED or natural lighting.
If you are looking for a big payday, search for the double die reverse of the 1939 regular strike Philadelphia nickel. Values are substantial, even in lower grades, where you are apt to find them in bank rolls.
Numismatist Ron Guth who used to oversee PCGS CoinFacts writes, “The 1939 Doubled MONTICELLO Nickel is a true condition-rarity and is one of the most difficult Jefferson Nickels to find with Full Steps.” Indeed, though, even examples without full steps are real discoveries with high prices.
The best way to find the double die is to look for the far more common reverses of 1938 and 1940. That’s how veteran hobbyists operate apart from the click-baiters on social media who focus solely on the ultra rarity. Training your eye for the more common type may lead to finding the rarer one.
If you like posts like this, subscribe so you can be informed whenever there is a new article or column.
Proxiblog also has thousands of followers on Facebook Coin Groups, YouTube and other social media. To get the latest discussion and commentary, be sure to friend us by clicking here.
You can find more information about types, varieties, errors, grading, bidding and buying in Coin News Updated: The Essential Guide to Online Bidding. Please consider buying or gifting the work for a friend, as it underwrites this hobbyist blog. Thank you.
