First Minted in 1938 – The Jefferson Nickel replaced the Buffalo Nickel, featuring Thomas Jefferson on the obverse and his Monticello home on the reverse.
Designed by Felix Schlag – Schlag won a national competition for his design. His original Monticello reverse was slightly modified before the coin went into production.
WWII Wartime Composition – From 1942 to 1945, the nickel’s composition changed to 35% silver, 56% copper, and 9% manganese due to a nickel shortage during World War II.
1950-D Key Date – The 1950-D Jefferson Nickel has the lowest mintage of the regular series and became a sought-after coin for collectors.
Full Steps Grading – Collectors value Jefferson Nickels with full, well-defined steps on Monticello, a key sign of strike quality and detail.
2004–2005 Westward Journey Series – To honor the bicentennials of the Louisiana Purchase and Lewis and Clark’s expedition, the U.S. Mint introduced four new reverse designs and one new obverse.
2006-Present New Obverse – In 2006, Jefferson received a forward-facing portrait by Jamie Franki, marking a modern redesign for the obverse.
Proof and Special Mint Sets – Collectors can find high-quality Jefferson Nickels in proof and special mint sets with sharp strikes and mirror-like surfaces.