Obverse

Reverse

5 Cents (Nickel)

Jefferson Nickel

United States · 1957

A United States five-cent piece featuring Thomas Jefferson and his home, Monticello.

Country: United States
Year: 1957
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 17, 2026More united states coins →

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Overview

A United States five-cent piece featuring Thomas Jefferson and his home, Monticello.

Historical significance

Introduced in 1938 to replace the Buffalo Nickel, the Jefferson Nickel has remained the standard 5-cent design for nearly 70 years. This 1957 issue dates from the mid-century period of high-volume industrial production.

Obverse (front)

Left-facing portrait of Thomas Jefferson. Legends: 'IN GOD WE TRUST', 'LIBERTY', and the year '1957'. Designer: Felix Schlag.

Reverse (back)

Depiction of Monticello, Jefferson's Virginia estate. Legends: 'E PLURIBUS UNUM', 'MONTICELLO', 'FIVE CENTS', and 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA'.

Estimated value

$0.05 - $0.25 in circulated condition; $1 - $15 for uncirculated specimens; significantly more for high-grade 'Full Steps' varieties.

What drives this coin's value

Condition/grade is the primary factor. In 1957, the 'Full Steps' (FS) designation (at least five clear steps on Monticello) significantly increases value for high-grade coins.

Grade assessment

Very Good to Fine (VG-F). Significant wear is visible on Jefferson's hair and the pillars/steps of Monticello, along with environmental staining/toning.

Mintage & rarity

38,408,000 (Common)

Authenticity & counterfeit red flags

Check weight (5g) and diameter. Counterfeits of this common date are rare, but look for 'added' mint marks or cast surfaces. This example appears authentic but heavily circulated.

Notable varieties & errors

Look for the 1957-D and 1957 Proof issues; also, double-die varieties occur within this series though rarely on this specific date.

Similar coins

1942-1945 'Silver War Nickels' (distinguished by a large mint mark above Monticello) and other Jefferson Nickels from different years/mints.

Care & preservation

Do not clean or polish the coin, as this reduces numismatic value. Store in a PVC-free plastic holder or a cardboard flip in a cool, dry place.

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