Jefferson Nickel
Country of Origin: United States
Year of Issue: 2003
Denomination: 5 Cents (Nickel)
Composition: 75% Copper, 25% Nickel
Brief Description
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.
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.
Care Instructions
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.
Mint Mark
P (Philadelphia Mint)
Mintage & Rarity
424,800,000 (Common)
Weight & Diameter
5.0 grams / 21.21 mm
Edge
Plain
Apparent Grade
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.
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'.
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.
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.
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.
Created At: 2026-04-26T18:10:35.927122