1940 Nickel Value
A worn 1940 nickel with no mint mark sells for about 10–30¢.
Uncirculated, that coin brings $2–8, and a certified MS65 brings $15–25. The 1940-D is worth the most: about 10–40¢ even when worn.
It's worth more than face value even when worn. Compare it with the table and check for the varieties below before selling.
Value by mint mark
| Coin | Made | Worn | Uncirculated | MS65 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1940-D | 43,540,000 | 10–40¢ | $2–6 | $12–20 |
| 1940 (no mint mark) | 176,485,000 | 10–30¢ | $2–8 | $15–25 |
| 1940-S | 39,690,000 | 10–40¢ | $2–8 | $15–30 |
Worn means a coin with normal wear from circulation. Uncirculated means no wear at all (MS60 to MS63). MS65 is a certified, near-flawless coin. Prices tied to silver update with the live silver price.
Find the mint mark
Back of the coin, to the right of Monticello. Philadelphia coins have no letter.
What it's made of
- 75% copper, 25% nickel, 5.0 grams
Melting cents and nickels is not allowed under U.S. Mint rules, so copper and nickel value is a guide only.
Varieties and errors to check
There are no widely collected varieties for 1940 nickels. Condition and mint mark are what set the value.
Condition matters
Collectors pay extra when the steps of Monticello on the back are sharply struck (called Full Steps).
Mintage
| Coin | Type | Mintage |
|---|---|---|
| 1940-D | For circulation | 43,540,000 |
| 1940 (no mint mark) | For circulation | 176,485,000 |
| 1940-S | For circulation | 39,690,000 |
Questions
Is a 1940 nickel silver?
No. 1940 nickels are made of 75% copper, 25% nickel.
Which 1940 nickel is worth the most?
Among regular coins, the 1940-S is worth the most, about $15–30 in MS65.
Where is the mint mark on a 1940 nickel?
Back of the coin, to the right of Monticello. Philadelphia coins have no letter.
Check real sales
Recent sold listings show what coins in your condition actually bring: see sold 1940 nickels on eBay.
Other coins from 1940: 1940 penny.
More Jefferson nickels: all years and mintages.
Values checked October 7, 2026 against several public price guides and auction results. How values work.