Obverse

Reverse

5 Cents (Nickel)

Jefferson Nickel

United States · 1980

A well-circulated 1980 Jefferson Nickel featuring the profile of Thomas Jefferson on the obverse and his home, Monticello, on the reverse.

Country: United States
Year: 1980
Denomination: 5 Cents (Nickel)
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 coins →

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Overview

A well-circulated 1980 Jefferson Nickel featuring the profile of Thomas Jefferson on the obverse and his home, Monticello, on the reverse.

Historical significance

The Jefferson nickel was introduced in 1938, replacing the Buffalo nickel. The 1980 issue represents a standard circulation strike from the late 20th century, a period when the United States mintage figures were very high to accommodate commerce.

Obverse (front)

Left-facing profile of Thomas Jefferson. Legends: 'IN GOD WE TRUST', 'LIBERTY', and '1980'. Designer: Felix Schlag.

Reverse (back)

Front view of Monticello, Jefferson's Virginia home. Legends: '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 Mint State grades.

What drives this coin's value

Value is primarily driven by condition. In this circulated state, it is only worth face value. Collectors look for 'Full Steps' on the building on the reverse for high-grade specimens.

Grade assessment

Good to Very Good (Heavily circulated with significant surface wear and numerous small hits/scratches).

Mintage & rarity

Common; 1980 Philadelphia mintage was 593,004,000 and Denver was 502,323,448.

Authenticity & counterfeit red flags

Check for correct weight (5g) and magnetic response (should not be magnetic). This coin is so common that counterfeiting for circulation is extremely rare.

Notable varieties & errors

None significant for the 1980 date, though die cracks and minor clashes are occasionally found in high-mintage years like this one.

Similar coins

1942-1945 Silver War Nickels (identified by a large mint mark over the dome of Monticello) and modern redesigns (2004-2006 Westward Journey series).

Care & preservation

Handle by the edges to avoid finger oils. Do not clean or polish, as this destroys numismatic value. Store in a cool, dry place within a PVC-free holder.

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