What is the value of a 1954 nickel?

The 1954 Jefferson Nickel was minted in Philadelphia, Denver and San Francisco. The value depends on where it was minted and what condition the coin was in. There was also a variety coin.

Here are the prices according to USA Coin Book:

Philadelphia: In MS60 mint condition, this coin is worth about $0.95. In MS65 Brilliant uncirculated condition, it is worth about $2.75. There was also proof coins minted here which are worth about $20 in PR65 grade.

Denver: In MS60 mint condition, this coin is worth about $0.55. In MS65 Brilliant uncirculated condition, it is worth about $1.40.

San Francisco: In MS60 mint condition, this coin is worth about $1.65. In MS65 Brilliant uncirculated condition, it is worth about $2.75.

S over D Variety: This variety came out of San Francisco and basically the mint pressed coins that were already minted in Denver so you will see an "S" mint mark on top of a "D" mint mark. In MS60 mint condition, this coin is worth about $24. In MS65 Brilliant uncirculated condition, it is worth about $75.

S over D Variety: The "Overmintmarks" varieties of the Jefferson Nickel are caused from the use of a working die originally made for the Denver Mint that for some reason was put in service at the San Francisco Mint and overpunched with the "S" Mintmark, not from the above answer.

If it is not a proof or a certified high-grade uncirculated coin it's pretty much worth a nickel. If it has an S mintmark on the back, a lightly circulated 1954 nickel might be worth a quarter.