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1964-D/D Jefferson Nickel FS-501: How to Identify the Repunched Mint Mark

By Blake Alma · Sep 2, 2026
Real Jefferson nickel type-reference photo in a CoinHub graphic explaining where to inspect the 1964-D/D FS-501 reverse mint mark.
Real Jefferson nickel type-reference photo by Spartan7W via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0; not represented as an FS-501 specimen. CoinHub editorial layout.
Quick answer: The 1964-D/D Jefferson nickel FS-501 is a recognized repunched-mint-mark variety, not proof that every 1964-D nickel has extra value. On the reverse, the Denver D is right of Monticello; a candidate needs a clearly attributable secondary impression rather than a flat scrape, damage, or a blurry photo.
Variety1964-D/D RPM FS-501
Where to lookReverse, right of Monticello
Normal weight5.00 grams
Best next stepCompare certified examples

Why the normal 1964-D nickel is not the prize

Denver struck 1,787,297,160 Jefferson nickels dated 1964, so a normal 1964-D is common. PCGS lists the FS-501 separately as a die variety. That distinction matters: a large overall mintage does not make the specific repunched-mint-mark attribution common, and a visible mark does not automatically make a coin FS-501.

What “D/D” means on FS-501

Before mint marks were added to the working die, the punch could be entered more than once. The recognized FS-501 attribution is a repunched Denver mint mark. GreatCollections describes the secondary D as offset to the southeast of the primary mark; use that as a comparison point, not as a reason to force an attribution from a worn coin.

Use magnification. Photograph the reverse straight on under steady light, then compare the D to certified FS-501 images from PCGS or another established attribution source. A phone photo that is out of focus is not enough evidence to price a variety.

Three lookalikes to reject first

  1. Damage: a nick, scrape, corrosion, or displaced metal can create a false “second D.”
  2. Die chips or debris: extra metal is not automatically the outline of a secondary mint-mark punch.
  3. Photographic blur: shadowing from light or focus should disappear when the coin and light angle change; a variety marker does not.

Do not confuse it with a doubled die

A repunched mint mark is a different attribution from doubled-die hub doubling. The FS-501 check concerns the reverse D, while a doubled die involves doubled design elements carried by the die. CoinHub’s broad 1964 Jefferson nickel guide is useful for general date-and-condition context; this page is only for the specific FS-501 diagnostic.

What can make a real FS-501 valuable?

Attribution, preservation, strike, and market demand all matter. PCGS records an auction high of $19,800 for an MS66 example in 2022, while that result should not be used as a value for an unverified or circulated coin. A buyer should verify the holder, designation, and comparable sale before paying a premium.

Authentication warning: Do not clean, polish, or “improve” a possible variety. Keep it in a non-PVC holder, capture clear photos, and seek a qualified attribution if the secondary impression remains convincing under magnification.

Fast FS-501 checklist

  1. Confirm the coin is a 1964-D Jefferson nickel and find the D on the reverse.
  2. Use a 5x–10x loupe and a stable, raking light.
  3. Look for a distinct secondary D-like impression in the recognized direction—not random extra metal.
  4. Compare with certified examples, then decide whether professional attribution is justified.

Frequently asked questions

Is every 1964-D nickel a D/D variety?

No. The 1964-D is a high-mintage regular issue; FS-501 is a specific recognized variety.

Is a 1964-D/D FS-501 a doubled die?

No. It is categorized as a repunched mint mark. Check the reverse mint mark, rather than treating any apparent doubling elsewhere as FS-501.

Where is the D on a 1964-D Jefferson nickel?

For this vintage Jefferson design, the Denver D is on the reverse to the right of Monticello.

Source and image note: Facts and current auction context were checked September 2, 2026 against PCGS CoinFacts, Greysheet, and GreatCollections. The hero uses a documented CC BY-SA photograph of a real Jefferson nickel as a type reference; it is not claimed to be an FS-501 specimen.