Jefferson Nickel

Country of Origin: USA - United States Mint

Year of Issue: 1995

Denomination: 5 Cents ($0.05)

Composition: Cupronickel (75% Copper, 25% Nickel)

Jefferson Nickel

Brief Description

A standard 1995 Jefferson 5-cent piece showing Thomas Jefferson on the obverse and his home, Monticello, on the reverse.

Historical Significance

The Jefferson Nickel series began in 1938, replacing the Buffalo Nickel. It was designed by Felix Schlag following a public competition. This 1995 issue represents the standard design used for decades before the 2004-2005 Westward Journey commemorative series.

Estimated Value

$0.05 (face value) in circulated condition; $1-$3 in high Mint State (MS-65+); higher values for 'Full Steps' (FS) designation.

Care Instructions

Avoid cleaning as it can damage the surface and reduce collector value. Store in a PVC-free flip or coin folder to prevent environmental damage. Handle by the edges.

Mint Mark

P (Philadelphia Mint)

Mintage & Rarity

774,156,000 (Very common)

Weight & Diameter

5.00g / 21.2mm

Edge

Plain

Apparent Grade

Circulated / About Uncirculated. Visible surface marks and minor wear on the high points of the hair and building, but largely intact detail.

Obverse (Front)

Left-facing portrait of Thomas Jefferson. Legends: 'IN GOD WE TRUST', 'LIBERTY', and the date '1995'. Designer: Felix Schlag.

Reverse (Back)

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

What Drives This Coin's Value

Condition/Grade is the primary factor. For this year, only coins with 'Full Steps' (sharp detail on the steps of Monticello) carry significant numismatic premiums.

Similar Coins

1995-D (Denver) or 1995-S (San Francisco Proof). Easily distinguished by the 'D' or 'S' mint mark respectively.

Authenticity & Counterfeit Red Flags

Authentic coins will have a crisp strike and weigh 5.0 grams. Given its low value, counterfeits of this specific date are extremely rare except for 'contemporary counterfeits' intended to circulate at face value.

Notable Varieties & Errors

No major varieties are widely recognized for 1995, though minor die cracks or 'Full Steps' designations are sought by enthusiasts.

Created At: 2026-06-13T20:34:38.296904