Hi! I was at the gas station the other day and received a fair amount of change, including one semi-dented 1957 nickel. Now, this nickel appeared odd to me because it bore no Mint Mark on the front, but when i inspected the back, on the lower right-hand side of the monticello building is a D mint mark that is raised. Now, I wasn't even aware that nickels that old were still in circulation, but regardless, my question is: Is that reverse D mark an anomaly or was it standard practice? I'm sorry i couldn't add a picture, but my camera is too low-res to capture it, so i hope you can make do. Any response is appreciated, especially for this new member!
It was normal for the older nickels to have the mintmark on the reverse on the right side of the building. The exception is during 1942-45 when the Mint put the mintmarks (PDS) above Monticello.
1964 was the last year mm's were on the reverse. 1968 was the first year mint marks appeared on the obverse. Here's a link to all mm locations on coins: http://www.coin-collecting-guide-for-beginners.com/mint-mark-on-coins.html
But the practice actually stopped in 1965, as there were no mint marks on coins dated 1965 through 1967.
You're right. I was giving the info found in the Red Book, which states: "The mint mark position, originally on the reverse to the right of Monticello, was moved to the obverse starting in 1968".
I just want to add that of all the types of coins in circulation still that older Jefferson's are over looked. A few years back i went through about $1800 worth of nickels and probably kept $50 dollars face in pre 60 nickels. I had written down what my ratio was. I think I found around 150 war nickels and about 7 buffalo's. Several sliders including a few 39's. Hmm i think i'm gonna go get a box of nickels after typing this.
Both of you are correct but I think that rickmp's response was directed primarily at Jefferson's and the location of a mintmark should one exist.
