What is a 1952 S nickel?

The 1952 S nickel is a five-cent piece struck by the United States Mint in 1952 at the San Francisco Mint. It is composed of 75% copper and 25% nickel and weighs 5.0 grams. The obverse (heads) of the coin features the Jefferson Memorial, while the reverse (tails) depicts the Monticello.

The 1952 S nickel is a popular coin among collectors due to its relatively low mintage of just over 21 million pieces. It is also the last year that the San Francisco Mint produced nickels before it was closed in 1955.

The 1952 S nickel is a valuable coin, with values ranging from $1 to $100 depending on its condition. It is a popular coin to collect and is a great way to learn about American history.

1952 S Nickel

Obverse: Jefferson Memorial
Reverse: Monticello
Year: 1952
Mint: San Francisco
Composition: 75% copper, 25% nickel
Weight: 5.0 grams
Diameter: 21.21 mm
Mintage: 21,475,000

The 1952 S nickel is a popular coin among collectors due to its relatively low mintage. It is also the last year that the San Francisco Mint produced nickels before it was closed in 1955. The 1952 S nickel is a valuable coin, with values ranging from $1 to $100 depending on its condition.

1. Obverse

The obverse of the 1952 S nickel features the Jefferson Memorial, a monument in Washington, D.C., that commemorates Thomas Jefferson, the third President of the United States.

The Jefferson Memorial was designed by John Russell Pope and completed in 1943.
The memorial is a large, circular building with a white marble exterior and a dome supported by 56 columns. The interior of the memorial features a 19-foot (5.8 m) bronze statue of Jefferson by sculptor Rudulph Evans.
The Jefferson Memorial is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Washington, D.C.
Each year, millions of people visit the memorial to learn about Jefferson's life and legacy.
The Jefferson Memorial is a symbol of American democracy.
Jefferson was a strong advocate for democracy, and the memorial serves as a reminder of the importance of democratic values.

The Jefferson Memorial is a fitting symbol for the 1952 S nickel. Jefferson was a great American leader who helped to shape the United States. The nickel is a reminder of Jefferson's legacy and the importance of democracy.

2. Reverse

The reverse of the 1952 S nickel features Monticello, the plantation home of Thomas Jefferson, the third President of the United States.

Monticello was designed by Jefferson himself and is considered a masterpiece of American architecture.
The home is a two-story, brick structure with a Palladian facade and a central dome. Monticello is surrounded by gardens and lawns, and it offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Monticello was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987.
The site is recognized for its outstanding universal value as a testament to Jefferson's genius and the ideals of the Enlightenment.
Monticello is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Virginia.
Each year, millions of people visit Monticello to learn about Jefferson's life and legacy.
Monticello is a symbol of American democracy.
Jefferson was a strong advocate for democracy, and Monticello is a reminder of the importance of democratic values.

The inclusion of Monticello on the reverse of the 1952 S nickel is a fitting tribute to Jefferson and his legacy. Monticello is a symbol of American democracy and a reminder of the importance of the Enlightenment ideals that shaped the United States.

3. Year

The year 1952 was a significant year in American history. It was the year that the Korean War ended, the United States Supreme Court ruled in Brown v. Board of Education that racial segregation in public schools was unconstitutional, and the first hydrogen bomb was tested. It was also the year that the 1952 S nickel was minted.

The year 1952 is an important component of the 1952 S nickel because it indicates the year in which the coin was minted. This information is important for collectors and historians who study the coin's production and circulation.

4. Mint

The 1952 S nickel was minted at the San Francisco Mint, one of the three active mints of the United States Mint at the time. The San Francisco Mint was established in 1854 to serve the needs of the California Gold Rush. It is located in the heart of San Francisco's financial district and has a long and rich history of producing coins.

The San Francisco Mint is known for its high-quality coins, and the 1952 S nickel is no exception. The coin is well-struck and has a beautiful luster. It is also a popular coin among collectors, due to its relatively low mintage of just over 21 million pieces.

The fact that the 1952 S nickel was minted in San Francisco is an important part of its history and identity. The coin is a product of its time and place, and it reflects the rich history of the San Francisco Mint.

5. Composition

The composition of the 1952 S nickel is 75% copper and 25% nickel. This composition was chosen because it provides the coin with a number of desirable properties, including durability, corrosion resistance, and a distinctive color.Copper is a relatively soft metal, which makes it easy to work with and to strike into coins. Nickel is a harder metal, which helps to strengthen the coin and to resist wear and tear. The combination of these two metals results in a coin that is both durable and attractive.

The composition of the 1952 S nickel is also important because it affects the coin's value. Nickels that are made of 75% copper and 25% nickel are more valuable than nickels that are made of other metals, such as steel. This is because the copper and nickel content of the coin gives it a higher intrinsic value.

The composition of the 1952 S nickel is an important factor to consider when collecting or investing in coins. By understanding the composition of the coin, collectors and investors can make more informed decisions about which coins to buy and sell.

6. Weight

The weight of a 1952 S nickel is 5.0 grams. This weight is significant because it is one of the specifications that helps to define the coin and distinguish it from other coins. The weight of a coin is determined by its composition, size, and thickness.

Composition
The composition of a coin is the type of metal or metals that it is made from. The 1952 S nickel is composed of 75% copper and 25% nickel. This composition gives the coin its distinctive color and weight.
Size
The size of a coin is its diameter and thickness. The 1952 S nickel has a diameter of 21.21 mm and a thickness of 1.95 mm. These dimensions give the coin its characteristic shape and weight.
Thickness
The thickness of a coin is its distance from one side to the other. The 1952 S nickel has a thickness of 1.95 mm. This thickness gives the coin its rigidity and durability.

The weight of a 1952 S nickel is an important factor to consider when collecting or investing in coins. By understanding the weight of the coin, collectors and investors can make more informed decisions about which coins to buy and sell.

7. Diameter

The diameter of a 1952 S nickel is 21.21 mm. This measurement is important because it is one of the specifications that helps to define the coin and distinguish it from other coins. The diameter of a coin is determined by its size and shape.

The diameter of the 1952 S nickel is significant because it affects the coin's weight, value, and overall appearance. A larger diameter coin will typically weigh more than a smaller diameter coin, and it will also be more valuable. The diameter of a coin also affects its appearance, as a larger diameter coin will have a more pronounced design.

The diameter of the 1952 S nickel is an important factor to consider when collecting or investing in coins. By understanding the diameter of the coin, collectors and investors can make more informed decisions about which coins to buy and sell.

8. Mintage

The mintage of a coin refers to the number of pieces that were produced. The mintage of the 1952 S nickel was 21,475,000. This means that there are 21,475,000 1952 S nickels in existence.

Rarity
The mintage of a coin can affect its rarity. Coins with a lower mintage are generally rarer than coins with a higher mintage. The 1952 S nickel has a relatively low mintage, which makes it more valuable than some other nickels.
Value
The mintage of a coin can also affect its value. Coins with a lower mintage are typically worth more than coins with a higher mintage. The 1952 S nickel is worth more than some other nickels because of its relatively low mintage.
Collectibility
The mintage of a coin can also affect its collectibility. Coins with a lower mintage are typically more collectible than coins with a higher mintage. The 1952 S nickel is a popular coin among collectors because of its relatively low mintage.
Historical significance
The mintage of a coin can also provide insights into its historical significance. The 1952 S nickel was minted during the Korean War. The relatively low mintage of the coin may be due to the fact that the United States Mint was producing other coins, such as the silver dollar, to support the war effort.

The mintage of the 1952 S nickel is an important factor to consider when collecting or investing in coins. By understanding the mintage of the coin, collectors and investors can make more informed decisions about which coins to buy and sell.

FAQs about 1952 S Nickel

This section provides answers to frequently asked questions about the 1952 S nickel. This information will help collectors and investors make informed decisions about buying, selling, and collecting 1952 S nickels.

Question 1: What is the value of a 1952 S nickel?

Answer: The value of a 1952 S nickel depends on its condition and rarity. However, most 1952 S nickels are worth between $1 and $10. Some uncirculated 1952 S nickels can be worth more than $100.

Question 2: How can I tell if my 1952 S nickel is rare?

Answer: The 1952 S nickel is a relatively rare coin, but there are some key factors that can help you determine if your coin is even rarer. First, check the mint mark. The S mint mark indicates that the coin was minted in San Francisco, and this mint mark is less common than the D mint mark (Denver) or the P mint mark (Philadelphia). Second, check the condition of the coin. Uncirculated coins are worth more than circulated coins, and coins with errors or unusual characteristics can also be more valuable.

Question 3: Where can I buy or sell 1952 S nickels?

Answer: You can buy or sell 1952 S nickels at a variety of places, including coin shops, online auction sites, and coin shows. It is important to do your research before buying or selling any coins, and to make sure that you are dealing with a reputable dealer.

Question 4: How can I store my 1952 S nickels safely?

Answer: To store your 1952 S nickels safely, you should keep them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. You should also store your coins in airtight containers to prevent tarnishing. There is special container for different kind of coin, it will be better if you can store your 1952 S nickels in a designated coin storage box, album or flips.

Question 5: What are some tips for collecting 1952 S nickels?

Answer: Here are a few tips for collecting 1952 S nickels:

Do your research. Learn as much as you can about the 1952 S nickel, including its history, rarity, and value.
Set a budget. Decide how much you are willing to spend on your collection, and stick to your budget.
Buy from reputable dealers. Make sure that you are buying your coins from a reputable dealer who guarantees the authenticity of their coins.
Store your coins safely. Store your coins in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.

By following these tips, you can start or add to your collection of 1952 S nickels with confidence.

Happy collecting!

This concludes the FAQs about 1952 S Nickel. For more information, please consult a reputable coin dealer or other reliable source.

Conclusion

The 1952 S nickel is a valuable and historic coin that is popular among collectors. The coin's relatively low mintage and unique design make it a desirable addition to any collection. Whether you are a seasoned collector or just starting out, the 1952 S nickel is a great coin to add to your portfolio.

The 1952 S nickel is a reminder of the rich history of the United States Mint and the important role that coins have played in American history. By collecting and studying coins, we can learn more about our past and appreciate the beauty and craftsmanship of these small works of art.