Jefferson Nickel (1938-Present)

Country of Origin: United States of America

Year of Issue: 1973

Denomination: Five Cents (5¢)

Composition: 75% Copper, 25% Nickel

Jefferson Nickel (1938-Present)

Brief Description

A standard 1970s United States nickel featuring Thomas Jefferson and his home, Monticello.

Historical Significance

The Jefferson nickel replaced the Buffalo nickel in 1938. The 1973 issue dates from a period of high inflation in the US but was produced in very high numbers to meet commerce needs.

Estimated Value

$0.05 (face value) in circulated condition; $0.50-$2.00 in high-grade Mint State; up to $20+ for MS-66 and higher.

Care Instructions

Store in a cool, dry place. While a standard nickel, any coin with collector potential should not be cleaned as it destroys numismatic value. Handle by the edges.

Mint Mark

None (Philadelphia Mint). While many 1973 coins have a D or S, the absence of a mark indicates Philadelphia.

Mintage & Rarity

384,396,000 (Philadelphia). Extremely common.

Weight & Diameter

5.00 grams / 21.2 mm

Edge

Plain

Apparent Grade

About Uncirculated (AU). The coin shows slight wear on the high points (cheekbone of Jefferson, pillars of Monticello) and some surface spotting/tarnish.

Obverse (Front)

Profile of Thomas Jefferson facing left, the 3rd President of the United States. Legend: 'IN GOD WE TRUST', 'LIBERTY', and the date '1973'. Designed by Felix Schlag.

Reverse (Back)

A front view of Monticello, Jefferson's Virginia home. Legend: 'E PLURIBUS UNUM', 'MONTICELLO', 'FIVE CENTS', 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA'.

What Drives This Coin's Value

Condition is the primary factor. Look for 'Full Steps' (FS) on the building on the reverse for significant premium; most coins of this era have weak strikes.

Similar Coins

Silver 'War Nickels' (1942-1945) identified by large mint marks over the dome. Buffalo Nickels (1913-1938) which preceded this design.

Authenticity & Counterfeit Red Flags

Counterfeits of this specific non-key date are non-existent. Check for a consistent weight of 5.0 grams and non-magnetic properties.

Notable Varieties & Errors

No major die varieties or errors are widely recognized for the 1973-P, though minor mechanical doubling is common.

Created At: 2026-05-18T05:18:09.347264