Coin Identifier
Jefferson Nickel
5 Cents (Nickel)

Jefferson Nickel

United States · 2003

A 2003 Philadelphia Mint Jefferson Nickel in Uncirculated-60 condition packaged in a Littleton Coin Company pocket.

Country
United States
Year
2003
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.

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Overview

A 2003 Philadelphia Mint Jefferson Nickel in Uncirculated-60 condition packaged in a Littleton Coin Company pocket.

Historical significance

The last year of the original reverse design featuring Monticello before the 2004-2005 Westward Journey commemorative series. Thomas Jefferson has been featured on the nickel since 1938.

Obverse (front)

Left-facing portrait of Thomas Jefferson, 3rd U.S. President. Legends: 'IN GOD WE TRUST', 'LIBERTY', and the date '2003 P'. Designed by Felix Schlag.

Reverse (back)

A front view of Monticello, Jefferson's Virginia home. Legends: 'E PLURIBUS UNUM', 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA', 'FIVE CENTS', and 'MONTICELLO'.

Estimated value

$0.05 face value; $0.50-$2.00 for a standard MS-60 to MS-63 example; higher values for coins with 'Full Steps' (FS) on the reverse.

What drives this coin's value

Most 2003-P nickels are only worth face value. Numismatic value is derived from the 'Full Steps' designation, which requires all five steps of Monticello to be clearly defined.

Grade assessment

Uncirculated-60 (as labeled by Littleton Coin Company). The coin shows no wear from circulation but exhibits typical bag marks and contact scratches for the grade.

Mintage & rarity

424,800,000 (Common)

Authenticity & counterfeit red flags

Authentic nickels of this era are extremely common; counterfeits are virtually non-existent for this specific date and mint. Ensure weights and magnet tests (nickel is not magnetic) are consistent.

Notable varieties & errors

Look for 'Full Steps' (FS) on the reverse, which significantly increases value to collectors of high-grade sets.

Similar coins

Easily confused with other dates of the Jefferson Nickel series (1938-2003) or the 2006-Present 'Return to Monticello' nickels which feature a forward-facing portrait.

Care & preservation

Store in the provided acid-free plastic or a PVC-free coin flip. Avoid touching the surfaces with bare hands as skin oils can cause spots or discoloration over time. Never clean the coin.