Gold-Plated/Gilded Jefferson Nickel Novelty Coin
Coin (Novelty/Modified Circulation) · Yellow Gold plating over a base metal alloy (75% copper, 25% nickel)
Purity: Likely 24K Gold Plated (0.00% internal gold content; micro-layer plating only)
Type
Coin (Novelty/Modified Circulation)
Purity
Likely 24K Gold Plated (0.00% internal gold content; micro-layer plating only)
Gold Type
Yellow Gold plating over a base metal alloy (75% copper, 25% nickel)
Weight
5.0 grams (Standard US Nickel weight)
Description
This is a standard United States Jefferson Nickel that has been aftermarket gold-plated for novelty or promotional purposes. It features the classic reverse design depicting Monticello and the inscriptions 'E PLURIBUS UNUM' and 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA'.
Key Features
Yellow gold luster on a familiar circulation coin; Felix Schlag's Monticello architectural design; 'FIVE CENTS' denomination
Color & Finish
Vivid yellow gold-tone with a high-luster, slightly reflective finish; inconsistent surface toning under light
Hallmarks & Stamps
None (No gold hallmarks as this is a legal tender base-metal coin that has been post-mint altered)
Dimensions Estimate
21.21 mm diameter; 1.95 mm thickness
Gemstones & Inlays
None
Clasp & Closure
Smooth, rounded edge (plain edge)
Chain & Links
N/A (Solid coin construction)
Craftsmanship Details
Standard US Mint die-struck coin with a secondary electrolytic gold deposition coating; crisp inscriptions but slightly softened by the plating layer
Authentication Indicators
Red Flag: A genuine US nickel is never minted in gold; the 'Five Cents' denomination and weight are diagnostic of a cupro-nickel coin that has been surface-treated
Origin & Maker
United States Mint (Original host coin); Private 3rd party plating company (Gilding)
Era & Period
Modern (Design first released in 1938; likely modified in the 2000s-present)
Age Estimate
Host coin likely minted between 1946 and 2003 based on the Felix Schlag Monticello reverse design
Cultural Significance
Represents the curiosity and marketing niche of altering common currency to appear high-value, often sold as collectible 'numismatic' treasures to the public.
Condition Notes
Very Good (Circulated). Visible contact marks and surface abrasions under the plating; slight wear on the high points of the building
Value Estimate
Face value $0.05; Secondary Market $0.50-$1.00 (Melt value for gold is negligible/zero)
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean with abrasives as the gold plating is extremely thin (microns) and will rub off to reveal the silver-colored nickel alloy underneath.
Similar Items
Gold-plated State Quarters, 'Golden' Sacagawea dollars (which are actually Manganese brass), or actual 22K Gold American Eagles
Interesting Facts
Gold-plated nickels were often sold in 'tribute sets' or used as 'lucky coins' in marketing mailers during the late 20th century.