Jefferson Nickel (1938-Present)

United States of America · 1973

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

Country: United States of America
Year: 1973
Denomination: Five Cents (5¢)
Metal: 75% Copper, 25% Nickel

This report is AI-generated and can be wrong. Always verify grade, authenticity, and value with a qualified dealer or certified grading service before buying, selling, or insuring.

Identified May 18, 2026More united states of america coins →

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Overview

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.

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'.

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.

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.

Grade assessment

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

Mintage & rarity

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

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.

Similar coins

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

Care & preservation

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.