1919-S is scarce in all grades VF and better. Fully struck coins are nearly unknown.
This date is notorious for being weakly struck, particularly on the reverse. Problem areas include the border, denomination, mintmark and the bison’s head with its all-important horn. Mint state coins may look worn, yet lustrous.
1919-S nickels usually have disappointing luster. The typically seen mushy example may have the smooth, mercury-like luster so common to weakly struck nickels, but it is seldom accompanied by the brilliance often associated with such coins. Toned examples are common, and this toning is usually not attractive.
Mintage:
| Philadelphia | Denver | San Francisco |
| 60,868,000 | 8,006,000 | 7,521,000 |