1946 Nickel Value
A worn 1946 nickel sells for about 10–30¢.
Uncirculated ones bring $2–10, and a certified MS65 brings $15–30.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1946-D | 45,292,200 | 10–30¢ | $2–5 | $12–25 |
| 1946 (no mint mark) | 161,116,000 | 10–30¢ | $2–10 | $15–30 |
| 1946-S | 13,560,000 | 10–30¢ | $2–8 | $12–25 |
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 1946 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 |
|---|---|---|
| 1946-D | For circulation | 45,292,200 |
| 1946 (no mint mark) | For circulation | 161,116,000 |
| 1946-S | For circulation | 13,560,000 |
Questions
Is a 1946 nickel silver?
No. 1946 nickels are made of 75% copper, 25% nickel.
Which 1946 nickel is worth the most?
Among regular coins, the 1946 (no mint mark) is worth the most, about $15–30 in MS65.
Where is the mint mark on a 1946 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 1946 nickels on eBay.
Other coins from 1946: 1946 penny.
More Jefferson nickels: all years and mintages.
Values checked October 7, 2026 against several public price guides and auction results. How values work.