Jefferson Nickel (1938 to Date)
Obverse (Front) Design
Reverse (Back) Design
Coin Specifications
Date Range
Denomination
Designer / Engraver
Mints
Composition
Precious Metal Content
Weight
Diameter
Edge
Mintage
History & Background
The Jefferson Nickel was introduced in 1938 after a design competition won by sculptor Felix Schlag. It replaced the Buffalo nickel. The reverse shows Monticello, the Virginia home designed by Thomas Jefferson himself.
During World War II, nickel was needed for the war effort. From 1942 to 1945 the Mint made the nickels from a mix of copper, silver and manganese. These wartime coins have a large mint mark above the dome of Monticello.
The Jefferson nickel is still made today, and the portrait has been updated several times.
Collecting Tips
- Look for the large mint mark above Monticello, which identifies a 35% silver wartime nickel.
- Full Steps (FS) is a premium designation when the steps of Monticello are fully visible.
- Most modern nickels are common and trade near face value.
Photographs by Grade
Jefferson Nickel (1938 to Date) (1938 to date) — Photographs by Grade
MS64
MS65
MS66
MS67
MS68
Frequently Asked Questions about the Jefferson Nickel (1938 to Date)
Are Jefferson nickels silver?
Only the wartime issues from 1942 to 1945 contain 35% silver. Other dates are copper-nickel.
How do I spot a silver wartime nickel?
Look for a large mint mark (P, D or S) above the dome of Monticello on the reverse.
Who designed the Jefferson nickel?
Felix Schlag.
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