1970-D United States Jefferson Nickel
Coin / Bullion (Circulating Coinage) · United States Mint (Denver Facility)
Pattern: Jefferson Nickel (Felix Schlag design)
Type
Coin / Bullion (Circulating Coinage)
Maker
United States Mint (Denver Facility)
Material
75% Copper, 25% Nickel (No silver content)
Dimensions
Diameter: 21.21 mm; Weight: 5.0 grams; Thickness: 1.95 mm.
Description
A standard circulating United States five-cent piece dated 1970 with a Denver mint mark. Despite its silver-colored appearance, this coin is part of the non-precious metal series and was struck for everyday commerce.
Key Features
The 'D' mint mark above the date on the obverse; the Felix Schlag profile design which was used from 1938 until 2004.
Material & Composition
75% Copper, 25% Nickel (No silver content)
Finish & Decoration
Standard circulation strike with a matte grey-silver luster; features the profile of Thomas Jefferson on the obverse and Monticello on the reverse.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Obverse features 'D' mint mark (Denver), date '1970', 'LIBERTY', and 'IN GOD WE TRUST'. Small 'FS' designer initials on the truncation of the bust.
Construction Details
Die-struck at a high-pressure minting press using planchets punched from a coil of copper-nickel strip.
Functional Features
Planar surface with a plain (smooth) edge; legal tender currency.
Handle & Grip Details
Not applicable (coinage)
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-struck; industrial-grade precision for mass-market availability with standard relief depth.
Authentication Indicators
Weight (5.0g), diameter, and magnetic properties are consistent with US Mint specifications for a cupro-nickel planchet.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States of America, Denver Mint.
Era & Period
Modern American Coinage (Post-1964 standard composition period)
Age Estimate
Produced in 1970 (54 years old)
Cultural Significance
A staple of American commerce representing the third President of the US and his home, Monticello. It reflects the post-silver era of US coinage where base metals replaced precious metals in circulation.
Condition Notes
Circulated condition (approx. VF to XF). Visible surface wear on Jefferson's hair and cheek; light contact marks and scratches; no major damage but lacking 'Full Steps' on the reverse.
Value Estimate
Face value ($0.05) to $0.15 in circulated condition; high-grade uncirculated examples may reach $1-$5.
Care & Maintenance
For circulating coins of this value, cleaning is discouraged as it can ruin numismatic value. Store in a dry environment to avoid 'PVC damage' from plastic flips.
Similar Pieces
1970-S Nickel (San Francisco mint, usually Proof only for this year); 1942-1945 War Nickels (contain 35% silver and are darker in color).
Interesting Facts
Silver was only used in Jefferson nickels for a short period during WWII (1942-1945) to conserve nickel for the war effort; these are known as 'War Nickels' and feature a large mint mark above the dome of Monticello.