5 Cents ($0.05)

Jefferson Nickel

United States · 1940

Obverse features a left-facing profile of Thomas Jefferson, the third U.S. President, with the inscriptions 'IN GOD WE TRUST' and 'LIBERTY' alongside the year 1940. The reverse (not shown) typically depicts Monticello.

Country: United States
Year: 1940
Denomination: 5 Cents ($0.05)
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 February 11, 2026More united states coins →

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Overview

Historical significance

The Jefferson Nickel replaced the Buffalo Nickel in 1938. This specific 1940 issue predates the 1942-1945 silver 'War Nickels' produced when nickel was a critical war material. It represents the early years of the longest-running five-cent design in U.S. history.

Estimated value

$0.05 to $1.50 (Highly dependent on condition; circulated examples are typically worth face value or a small premium)

Care & preservation

Store in a cool, dry place. Avoid cleaning the coin as it can damage the surface and significantly reduce collector value. Use PVC-free coin holders for long-term storage.

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Overview

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Estimated value

Care & preservation

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Learn about Jefferson Nickel in the encyclopedia