Coin Identifier
Jefferson Nickel
5 Cents ($0.05)

Jefferson Nickel

United States of America · 1940

The obverse features a profile of Thomas Jefferson facing left, with the inscriptions 'IN GOD WE TRUST', 'LIBERTY', and '1940'. The reverse (not shown) depicts Monticello, Jefferson's Virginia estate.

Country
United States of America
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 More united states of america coins →
Explore Jefferson Nickel in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own coins.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

Overview

The obverse features a profile of Thomas Jefferson facing left, with the inscriptions 'IN GOD WE TRUST', 'LIBERTY', and '1940'. The reverse (not shown) depicts Monticello, Jefferson's Virginia estate.

Historical significance

Designed by Felix Schlag, the Jefferson nickel replaced the Buffalo nickel in 1938. It was the first US circulating coin to feature an American president's home on the reverse. The 1940 issue dates to the pre-WWII era before the composition was temporarily changed to include silver (War Nickels) in 1942.

Estimated value

$0.05 to $1.50 (Values are higher for uncirculated specimens or those with a 'S' or 'D' mint mark in high grades).

Care & preservation

Store in a cool, dry place. Avoid cleaning the coin with chemicals or abrasives, as this can severely decrease numismatic value. Handle by the edges to prevent skin oils from causing oxidation.