2020-D Jefferson Nickel (Copper-Nickel Composition)
Coin/Bullion · United States Mint (Denver branch)
Pattern: Jefferson Nickel (Jamie Franki Obverse / Felix Schlag Reverse)
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
United States Mint (Denver branch)
Material
75% Copper, 25% Nickel (No silver content)
Dimensions
Diameter: 21.21 mm; Thickness: 1.95 mm; Weight: 5.000 grams
Description
A standard circulating five-cent piece featuring the modern obverse portrait of Thomas Jefferson based on a 1800 Rembrandt Peale painting.
Key Features
The 'D' mint mark indicating Denver production and the cursive 'Liberty' script modeled after Jefferson's own handwriting.
Material & Composition
75% Copper, 25% Nickel (No silver content)
Finish & Decoration
Business strike with satin-like luster; features the 2006 redesigned forward-facing portrait of Thomas Jefferson
Hallmarks & Stamps
'D' mint mark (Denver Mint), 'IN GOD WE TRUST', 'Liberty' (in Jefferson's handwriting script), and date '2020'
Construction Details
Industrial die-struck planchet; mass-produced by high-speed coinage presses
Functional Features
Legal tender currency for the United States; reeded edge (plain/smooth edge for nickels)
Handle & Grip Details
None; handheld numismatic object
Craftsmanship Details
Government-standard precision striking; machine-made with zero hand-wrought elements.
Authentication Indicators
Standard mint luster, correct strike depth, and authentic Denver 'D' mint mark placement.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States of America; Denver Mint facility
Era & Period
Contemporary Modern (Post-2006 'Return to Monticello' design series)
Age Estimate
Dated 2020; approximately 4 years old at time of analysis
Cultural Significance
Representing the third President of the U.S.; a staple of American commerce and the lowest-denomination coin still produced without a zinc core.
Condition Notes
Circulated/Very Good; visible surface bag marks and light contact scratches consistent with pocket change usage.
Value Estimate
Face value of $0.05 USD; minimal numismatic premium in circulated condition.
Care & Maintenance
No cleaning recommended for coins as it ruins numismatic value; store in a dry environment or PVC-free flip if collecting.
Similar Pieces
1942-1945 Silver War Nickel (contains 35% silver); 2020-P (Philadelphia) or 2020-S (San Francisco Proof) nickels.
Interesting Facts
Despite the silver-colored appearance, the nickel has not contained silver since the 'War Nickels' of 1942-1945.