Welcome to the Monday Market Report for the week ending June 21, 2026, brought to you by Shawn of Blue Ridge Silver Hound. This week, we explore some of the most relevant modern-era coins (1900 to present) sold at auctions on GreatCollections.com. Surprisingly, Jefferson nickels have overtaken Lincoln cents as the top-performing coins this week, a rare occurrence that happens only once or twice a year.
The Rise of Jefferson Nickels
Jefferson nickels, especially from the 1960s, have gained significant attention recently. Collectors are now focusing on these coins for registry sets and high-end portfolios. Several notable sales highlight this trend:
- 1960 Business Strike Jefferson Nickel graded MS67 (mid-state 67) sold for $1,013.62. This coin showed die clashing under Jefferson's chin and die file lines from polishing.
- 1963-D Jefferson Nickel graded MS66+ with five full steps sold for $4,838.62. This is a pure rarity, as many early 1960s Philly and Denver coins are tough to find.
- 1962 Philadelphia Jefferson Nickel graded MS67 with full steps sold for $2,036.25.
- 1958-D Jefferson Nickel graded MS68 with full steps and beautiful toning sold for $10,968.75. This coin is one of the few standout 1950s nickels with well-struck full steps.
- 1950-D Jefferson Nickel graded MS68 sold for $2,949.75.
- 1949-D Jefferson Nickel graded MS67 with full steps and QA certified sold for $1,519.88.
- 1942 Philadelphia Jefferson Nickel (Type 2, 35% silver) graded MS68 sold for $1,714.50.
- 1941-D Jefferson Nickel graded MS68 with full steps sold for $4,098.38.
- 1939 Philadelphia Jefferson Nickel graded MS68 with full steps and QA certified sold for $3,432.38.
These sales demonstrate the growing demand and value for Jefferson nickels, especially those with full steps and high grades.
Lincoln Cents Take a Step Back
Lincoln cents saw fewer high-end sales this week, possibly due to market breathing room. Notable sales include:
- 1976-D Lincoln Memorial Cent graded MS67+ sold for $1,301.62. This coin is a great secondary tier or placeholder for future higher-grade examples.
- 1943-S Steel Cent graded MS68 sold for $2,194.88. Despite die clashing being rare on steel cents, this coin performed exceptionally well.
- 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent graded Fine 12 sold for $1,098. This is an affordable example for collectors seeking a 1909-S VDB.
- 1909 VDB Proof Lincoln Cent graded PCGS Proof 64 Red-Brown sold for $23,063.62. Proof versions are extremely rare and highly sought after.
Indian Head Cents and Other Highlights
- 1909-S Indian Head Cent graded MS65 Red Brown with CAC green sticker sold for $4,334.62. This is a key among keys and a stunning example.
- 1909 Philadelphia Indian Head Cent graded MS65 Red sold for $1,069.86.
- 1906 Indian Head Cent graded MS65 Red with CAC green sticker sold for $1,406.25. This coin showed some oxidation but remains a valuable collectible.
Dimes and Quarters
- 1916-D Mercury Dime graded AU50 Details by Annex sold for $5,918.85. This coin had re-engraved lower fasces on the reverse, affecting its value.
- 1908-S Barber Dime graded MS67 with CAC certification sold for $9,562.50.
- 1957-D Roosevelt Dime graded MS68 by NGC sold for $3,150.
- 1930-S Standing Liberty Quarter graded MS67+ sold for $4,500.
- 1924 Standing Liberty Quarter graded MS66+ Full Head sold for $4,613.62.
- 1920-D Standing Liberty Quarter graded MS66 Full Head sold for $15,360.75. This is an unconventional date and a top coin of the week.
Half Dollars
- 1971 Philadelphia Kennedy Half Dollar graded MS67+ with QA certification sold for $8,281.12. This coin is a registry set piece with a yellowish-green tone.
- 1966 Special Mint Set Kennedy Half Dollar with doubled die obverse FS-102 variety sold for $4,736.25. This coin is a cherry picker's variety with a doubled profile.
Upcoming Blue Ridge Silver Hound Show
Shawn also announced a special show on Friday, June 26, featuring 100% graded slabs from PCGS, NGC, ANACS, and CAC. The show will include Morgan dollars, Walking Liberties, and many varieties starting at just $1. Attendees can sign up with a QR code or links provided for a $15 discount on their first item.
Conclusion
This week's market report highlights a surprising shift with Jefferson nickels taking the lead over Lincoln cents in auction value. Collectors should pay close attention to rare 1960s Jefferson nickels, especially those with full steps, as they are becoming highly desirable. Other notable coins like Indian Head cents, Standing Liberty quarters, and Kennedy half dollars also showed strong sales. As always, collectors are encouraged to grade their coins responsibly and stay informed about market trends.
Did you have a favorite coin from this week's report? Share your thoughts and happy collecting!
