Coin Identifier
Jefferson Nickel — obverse
Obverse
Jefferson Nickel — reverse
Reverse
5 Cents (USD)

Jefferson Nickel

United States · 2008

A standard circulating United States five-cent coin featuring a forward-facing portrait of Thomas Jefferson on the obverse and his Virginia estate, Monticello, on the reverse.

Country
United States
Year
2008
Denomination
5 Cents (USD)
Metal
75% copper, 25% nickel
Grade
About Uncirculated to Mint State (AU/MS) with minor bag marks.

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Overview

A standard circulating United States five-cent coin featuring a forward-facing portrait of Thomas Jefferson on the obverse and his Virginia estate, Monticello, on the reverse.

Historical significance

The Jefferson nickel has been minted since 1938, replacing the Buffalo nickel. The modern portrait design by Jamie Franki was introduced in 2006, depicting a forward-looking view of Jefferson based on a 1800 painting by Rembrandt Peale.

Obverse (front)

Portrait of Thomas Jefferson facing right (forward-facing perspective introduced in 2006). Inscriptions include 'IN GOD WE TRUST' at the top right, 'Liberty' in script below the portrait, and the year '2008' with the 'D' mint mark underneath.

Reverse (back)

Depiction of Monticello, Thomas Jefferson's Virginia home. Inscriptions include 'E PLURIBUS UNUM' at the top, 'MONTICELLO' below the building, and 'FIVE CENTS' and 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA' surrounding the lower half.

Estimated value

$0.05 to $0.25 in circulated condition; up to $5.00+ in pristine Mint State condition.

What drives this coin's value

Condition/grade, presence of full steps on Monticello, and error varieties.

Grade assessment

About Uncirculated to Mint State (AU/MS) with minor bag marks.

Mintage & rarity

Common, hundreds of millions minted.

Authenticity & counterfeit red flags

Counterfeits are extremely rare for standard modern nickels due to low face value. Weight and dimensions should match standard mint specifications.

Notable varieties & errors

Various minor die chips, doubled dies, and repunched mint marks typical of modern U.S. mint production.

Similar coins

Earlier Jefferson nickel designs featuring the traditional profile portrait of Jefferson.

Care & preservation

Handle by the edges using clean cotton gloves if handling uncirculated pieces. Store in a cool, dry place within inert holders such as 2x2 flips or mylar capsules. Avoid harsh cleaning agents.