5 Cents ($0.05)

Jefferson Nickel

United States of America · 1940

A 1940 United States five-cent piece featuring Thomas Jefferson on the obverse.

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 April 26, 2026More united states of america coins →

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Overview

A 1940 United States five-cent piece featuring Thomas Jefferson on the obverse.

Historical significance

The Jefferson Nickel was introduced in 1938 to replace the Buffalo Nickel. The design by Felix Schlag was chosen following a competition. This 1940 issue predates the 'Wartime' silver composition used from 1942-1945.

Obverse (front)

Profile of Thomas Jefferson facing left, designed by Felix Schlag. Legend: 'IN GOD WE TRUST', 'LIBERTY', and '1940'.

Reverse (back)

View of Monticello, Jefferson's Virginia home. Legend: 'E PLURIBUS UNUM', 'MONTICELLO', 'FIVE CENTS', 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA'.

Estimated value

$0.10-$0.40 in circulated condition; $15-$50 in Mint State 65. Rare 'Full Steps' specimens can be worth $100+.

What drives this coin's value

Condition (especially the detail on the steps of Monticello), mint mark, and overall eye appeal. Early nickels with 'Full Steps' details carry a significant premium.

Grade assessment

Very Good to Fine. Shows significant circulation wear on Jefferson's hair and clothing; the fields are somewhat scratched.

Mintage & rarity

176,485,000 (Philadelphia). This is a very common date and not considered rare.

Authenticity & counterfeit red flags

Weight should be exactly 5.0 grams for uncirculated specimens. Look for 'mushy' details or off-metal colors which may indicate a counterfeit or contemporary forgery.

Notable varieties & errors

The 1940 Reverse of 1938 (curved steps) and the Reverse of 1940 (straight steps) are significant variants for collectors.

Similar coins

Often confused with the 1940 Proof version (which has a mirrored finish) or the 1940-D and 1940-S which have mint marks on the reverse.

Care & preservation

Do not clean or polish the coin, as this destroys its numismatic value. Handle by the edges only and store in a PVC-free plastic flip or acid-free paper holder.

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