The modest mintage for the 1951 S nickel attracted widespread hoarding, and Mint State pieces of so-so quality are plentiful. Sharply struck gems are very elusive, though coins having pleasing luster with soft strikes are easy to find. In the late 1940s and early 1950s the San Francisco Mint frequently re-polished worn dies to remove erosion lines and extend their usage. This accounts for both the shallow lettering and occasional proof-like pieces found from this mint.
Several re-punched mintmark varieties may be found, all of them quite minor.
Mintage:
| Philadelphia | Denver | San Francisco | Proof |
| 28,609,500 | 20,460,000 | 7,776,000 | 57,500 |
Cents
