Coin Identifier
Jefferson Nickel — obverse
Obverse
Jefferson Nickel — reverse
Reverse
5 Cents (Nickel)

Jefferson Nickel

United States of America · 1938-present (Specific date on obverse not visible)

A standard US five-cent piece featuring Thomas Jefferson and his home, Monticello.

Country
United States of America
Year
1938-present (Specific date on obverse not visible)
Denomination
5 Cents (Nickel)
Metal
75% Copper, 25% Nickel

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Overview

A standard US five-cent piece featuring Thomas Jefferson and his home, Monticello.

Historical significance

Introduced in 1938 to replace the Buffalo Nickel. Designed by Felix Schlag, it has been the standard five-cent piece for over 80 years, with a brief portrait change in 2005-2006.

Obverse (front)

Left-facing portrait of Thomas Jefferson (pre-2005) or front-facing (post-2006) with 'IN GOD WE TRUST' and 'LIBERTY'.

Reverse (back)

Depicts Monticello, Jefferson's Virginia estate, with legends 'E PLURIBUS UNUM', 'MONTICELLO', 'FIVE CENTS', and 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA'.

Estimated value

$0.05 circulated; $1-$50+ for high-grade Mint State or key dates.

What drives this coin's value

Mint state condition, 'Full Steps' on Monticello, key dates, and silver content in 'War Nickels' (1942-1945).

Grade assessment

Fine/Very Fine - showing moderate wear on the building steps and roof lines of Monticello.

Mintage & rarity

Generally common; billions produced. Key dates include 1938-D, 1938-S, 1939-D, 1939-S, and 1950-D.

Authenticity & counterfeit red flags

Check for correct weight (5.0g) and clear details in the lettering and building pillars. Counterfeits of common dates are rare.

Notable varieties & errors

1939 Doubled Die Reverse, 1942-D over D, and 'Full Steps' designations on the reverse.

Similar coins

Buffalo Nickels (previous design) and 'Westward Journey' Nickels (2004-2005 special reverses).

Care & preservation

Store in a cool, dry place. Avoid cleaning or polishing as it destroys numismatic value. Handle by the edges.