The Jefferson Nickel, a staple of American coinage, has fascinated collectors for decades. Collecting Jefferson Nickels offers a window into mid-20th century America
Jefferson Nickel Design and Composition
The obverse features a portrait of Thomas Jefferson, designed by Felix Schlag. The reverse displays Monticello, Jefferson’s Virginia estate. The coin has a smooth edge.
Initially, the 5 cent coin was composed of 75% copper and 25% nickel, giving it a silvery appearance. During World War II, from 1942 to 1945, the composition changed to include silver (35% silver, 56% copper, 9% manganese) to conserve nickel for the war effort.
Grading Jefferson Nickels
For amateur numismatists, grading a Jefferson Nickel can be done by examining key aspects of the coin’s appearance:
Mint State Condition
In mint state, a nickel should have no signs of wear. The obverse will display crisp details of Jefferson’s hair and facial features, while the reverse will have sharp details of Monticello. The fields will be free of major scratches or contact marks.
Fine Condition
A Fine condition these nickels will show some wear, particularly on the high points of Jefferson’s hair and the dome of Monticello. Details will be present but not as sharp, and there might be some minor surface abrasions.
Circulated Condition
In circulated condition, a the nickel will show significant wear. The details on the obverse and reverse will be smooth, with major features such as Jefferson’s hair and Monticello’s columns being less distinct. The fields may display numerous contact marks.
Rare Issues and Error Coins
Several Jefferson Nickels are sought after due to their rarity or minting errors. Some notable examples include the 1943/2-P overdate and the 1954-S D/S overmint mark. These coins can command high prices depending on their condition.
Special Releases
In addition to standard issues, collectors can find proof coins and special mint sets, which are produced with higher quality and detail. These special releases offer a unique opportunity to own a piece of numismatic artistry.
- 1950-D: Known for its low mintage, making it a key date for collectors.
- 1939-D: Another low mintage year, highly sought after in high grades.
Jefferson Nickel Value Chart
Below is a chart that breaks down the estimated value range based on the coin’s condition:
| Condition | Estimated Value Range |
|---|---|
| Good | $0.05 – $0.10 |
| Fine | $0.10 – $0.50 |
| Extra Fine (XF45) | $0.50 – $1.00 |
| About Uncirculated (AU) | $1.00 – $5.00 |
| Brilliant Uncirculated (BU) | $5.00 – $20.00 |
| MS66 | $20.00 – $200.00 |