Gas Station: It was supposed to be just another quick fuel stop. But for 29-year-old Mark Reynolds from Iowa, a simple gas station purchase turned into a life-changing discovery — thanks to a single Jefferson nickel hidden in his change.
At first glance, the coin didn’t seem unusual. But Mark, a casual coin enthusiast, noticed its off-center strike and unusually sharp details. That small curiosity would soon lead him to uncover a six-figure treasure.
The Coin That Stood Out
After taking the nickel home, Mark compared it to others in his collection. What caught his eye was the date — 1942 — and the distinct large mint mark above Monticello, a feature unique to wartime nickels.
During World War II, Jefferson nickels were made with a special silver alloy to save nickel for the war effort. These “war nickels” (minted from mid-1942 to 1945) contain 35% silver and have a large mint mark over Monticello’s dome — something collectors prize.
But Mark’s coin had an even rarer feature: it was a double-die reverse, where the design elements on the back were accidentally struck twice, slightly misaligned, creating a collectible minting error.
Why It’s Worth a Fortune
The combination of being a wartime silver nickel and having a major doubling error put this coin in the “extremely rare” category.
Its value skyrocketed because of:
- Historical Significance – A genuine WWII-era silver alloy nickel.
- Minting Error – The double-die reverse dramatically increases rarity.
- Condition – Mark’s coin was in Mint State condition, almost as if it had never been used.
- Collector Demand – Error coins from this era are highly sought after.
When graded by the Numismatic Guaranty Company (NGC), the nickel received a Mint State 67 grade — one of the highest ever for this variety. Soon after, it sold at auction for $142,500.
How It Changed His Life
Mark used the proceeds to pay off his student loans, put a down payment on a house, and even start a small business. “It’s crazy to think that something worth just five cents could change everything,” he said.
A Reminder for Everyone
If there’s one lesson from Mark’s story, it’s that valuable treasures can still be found in the most ordinary places — even in your gas station change. Next time you get coins back, take a moment to check them. You might be holding history in your hand.
FAQ: Found at a Gas Station – The Unique Jefferson Nickel That Changed My Life
1. What makes wartime Jefferson nickels special?
From mid-1942 to 1945, Jefferson nickels were made with 35% silver instead of the usual nickel to conserve the metal for World War II. They can be identified by the large mint mark above Monticello on the reverse.
2. What is a double-die reverse error?
A double-die reverse happens when the coin’s reverse design is accidentally struck twice at a slight offset, creating noticeable doubling in letters or details. It’s a rare and valuable minting error.
3. How can I tell if my nickel is a wartime silver nickel?
Look for a large mint mark (P, D, or S) above Monticello’s dome on the reverse side. Also, wartime nickels have a slightly different color and tone due to the silver content.
4. What’s the highest known value for a Jefferson nickel?
Rare varieties in pristine condition — especially with major minting errors — can sell for over $100,000, with some approaching $150,000 at auction.