1949 Jefferson Nickel, United States Mint
Coin/Bullion · United States Mint (Philadelphia), founded 1792. It is a government-run institution with a reputation for high-quality mass production and historically significant coinage.
Pattern: Jefferson Nickel (Felix Schlag design), introduced in 1938, currently in production with obverse modifications.
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
United States Mint (Philadelphia), founded 1792. It is a government-run institution with a reputation for high-quality mass production and historically significant coinage.
Material
75% Copper and 25% Nickel (Note: This is NOT a silver item. Only Jefferson nickels from 1942-1945 contain 35% silver, known as War Nickels).
Dimensions
Diameter: 21.21 mm (.835 in); Weight: 5.0 grams; Thickness: 1.95 mm.
Description
This 1949 Jefferson Nickel represents a specimen of mid-century American circulating currency. Designed by Felix Schlag through a public competition, the obverse features a dignified portrait of Thomas Jefferson, third President of the United States. Unlike 'War Nickels' of the previous decade, this coin contains no silver content. It is housed in what appears to be a collector's album or professional storage card.
Key Features
Distinctive Felix Schlag profile, '1949' date stamp, Lack of a 'D' (Denver) or 'S' (San Francisco) mint mark indicating Philadelphia origin.
Material & Composition
75% Copper and 25% Nickel (Note: This is NOT a silver item. Only Jefferson nickels from 1942-1945 contain 35% silver, known as War Nickels).
Finish & Decoration
Satin circulating finish with relief engraving. Features the left-facing profile of Thomas Jefferson on the obverse and stylized typography.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No mint mark (Philadelphia); 'IN GOD WE TRUST' and 'LIBERTY 1949' on the obverse. Reverse would contain 'MONTICELLO', 'FIVE CENTS', and 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA'.
Construction Details
Machine-struck using hardened steel dies in a high-speed industrial coining press.
Functional Features
Standard currency unit; legal tender with reeded or smooth edges (smooth for nickels) to prevent clipping/shaving.
Handle & Grip Details
None (Not applicable to coinage).
Craftsmanship Details
Standard industrial die-striking. The detail in the hair reflects the quality of the Philadelphia Mint's master hubs during the late 1940s.
Authentication Indicators
Correct font style and spacing for the era; appropriate metal luster for a copper-nickel alloy; wear consistent with 75 years of light to moderate circulation.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States of America, specifically the Philadelphia Mint workshop.
Era & Period
Modern Era / Post-WWII Americana (1949). Design reflects the Neoclassical revival style of the 1930s.
Age Estimate
Dated 1949; 75 years old.
Cultural Significance
Represents the post-war economic boom in the United States and the stability of the nickel as a fundamental unit of daily commerce in mid-century America.
Condition Notes
Circulated/Very Good condition. There is visible surface wear on the high points of Jefferson's hair and cheek. Moderate tarnish or toning is visible in the recessed areas. No major gouges or environmental damage are apparent.
Value Estimate
Face value to $1.25 USD. Premium value is negligible unless the coin is in Mint State (MS65 or higher) or features 'Full Steps' on the reverse.
Care & Maintenance
For coins of this grade, avoid acidic cleaners or heavy polishing. Store in PVC-free flips or albums to prevent 'green slime' environmental damage. Handle by the edges only.
Similar Pieces
1949-D or 1949-S nickels (identified by small letters on the reverse), 1944 Silver War Nickel (identified by a large 'P', 'D', or 'S' above the dome of Monticello).
Interesting Facts
The Jefferson design replaced the Buffalo Nickel in 1938. The 1949 strike from Philadelphia is relatively common, with over 60 million produced, making it a staple for beginner collectors.