Jefferson Nickel Value Guide

The Jefferson Nickel is a U.S. five-cent coin that was first minted in 1938 and continues to be produced today. The coin was designed by Felix Schlag, a German-born American sculptor who won a design competition held by the U.S. Mint. The Jefferson Nickel was introduced to replace the Buffalo Nickel.

The obverse side of the Jefferson Nickel features a left-facing portrait of the United States' third president, Thomas Jefferson. The word "LIBERTY" is inscribed near the rim, and the minting year appears below the portrait.

The reverse side originally showcased Monticello, Jefferson's historic Virginia estate, along with the words "E PLURIBUS UNUM," "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA," and the denomination "FIVE CENTS."

The Jefferson Nickel has undergone several design changes throughout its history. In 2004-2005, the U.S. Mint released the Westward Journey Nickel Series to commemorate the bicentennial of the Lewis and Clark expedition, which featured new reverse designs.

In 2006, a new obverse design by Jamie Franki was introduced, presenting a more detailed and lifelike portrait of Jefferson, along with the word "LIBERTY" in Jefferson's own handwriting. Monticello was restored to the reverse side with a few modifications.

While the Jefferson Nickel is a common coin in circulation, some key dates and mint marks are more valuable and sought after by collectors. The 1950-D Jefferson Nickel, for example, is known for its low mintage numbers and is considered a prized possession among numismatists.