United States Jefferson Nickel (Reverse Aspect)
Coin/Currency · United States Mint
Pattern: Jefferson Nickel, Monticello Reverse Design by Felix Schlag
Type
Coin/Currency
Maker
United States Mint
Material
Standard Cupro-Nickel (75% Copper, 25% Nickel). Note: This is NOT silver. Only War Nickels (1942-1945) contain 35% silver.
Dimensions
Diameter: 21.21 mm; Thickness: 1.95 mm; Weight: 5.000 grams.
Description
A standard Jefferson Nickel showing the reverse side. The design features Monticello, the Virginia home of Thomas Jefferson. This specific specimen shows significant circulation wear, resulting in a dull grey patina often mistaken by novices for low-grade silver.
Key Features
Felix Schlag’s Monticello design; smooth edge; distinctive copper-nickel 'sandwich' alloy appearance.
Material & Composition
Standard Cupro-Nickel (75% Copper, 25% Nickel). Note: This is NOT silver. Only War Nickels (1942-1945) contain 35% silver.
Finish & Decoration
Circulated strike, matte/greyish oxidation. Features the Neoclassical facade of Monticello, Thomas Jefferson's estate.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Legend: 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA', 'E PLURIBUS UNUM', 'MONTICELLO', 'FIVE CENTS'. Missing 'P', 'D', or 'S' mint mark above dome indicates standard post-1945 composition.
Construction Details
Die-struck, machine-manufactured by high-pressure industrial coinage presses.
Functional Features
Legal tender currency; reeded edge (early types) or smooth edge (standard type). This piece has a smooth edge.
Handle & Grip Details
Not applicable (coinage).
Craftsmanship Details
Mass-produced industrial strike; low relief due to heavy circulation wear. High durability intended for 20+ years of active trade.
Authentication Indicators
Weight of 5 grams and diameter are consistent with US Mint specifications. The absence of a large 'P', 'D', or 'S' above the dome confirms this is not a Silver War Nickel.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States of America; likely Philadelphia, Denver, or San Francisco Mint.
Era & Period
Modern Era (1938–Present). Design reflects the Neoclassical architectural style of the Federal Period.
Age Estimate
Modern era (approx. 1946-present). Lack of large silver-era mint mark suggests post-WWII production.
Cultural Significance
Symbolizes American democratic ideals and Neoclassical architecture; a staple of American commerce for nearly a century.
Condition Notes
Circulated/Good. Visible surface scratches, rim dings, and significant loss of detail on the building's steps and columns (tarnish/wear).
Value Estimate
Face value ($0.05 USD). In this circulated condition, it holds no precious metal or numismatic premium.
Care & Maintenance
As a common circulation coin, no special care is needed. Do not clean with abrasives as it destroys numismatic value. Store in a dry environment.
Similar Pieces
1942-1945 Silver War Nickels (35% Silver), Buffalo Nickels (1913-1938), and 2004-2005 Westward Journey commemorative nickels.
Interesting Facts
The design of Monticello was actually changed slightly in 1939 because the original 1938 steps were too thin to strike clearly. This remains the longest-running nickel design in US history.