United States Jefferson Nickel (Cupro-Nickel Composition)
Coin (Circulation Strike) · None (Silver-toned cupro-nickel alloy)
Purity: 0% (Non-gold item; primary composition is 75% copper and 25% nickel)
Type
Coin (Circulation Strike)
Purity
0% (Non-gold item; primary composition is 75% copper and 25% nickel)
Gold Type
None (Silver-toned cupro-nickel alloy)
Weight
5.00 grams (Standard US Nickel weight)
Description
The item is a standard United States Jefferson Nickel reverse. It depicts Thomas Jefferson's estate, Monticello. Despite the user's prompt regarding gold, this specific item contains no gold. It is a base metal circulation coin used as legal tender in the U.S. for five cents. The surface displays significant wear and handling marks consistent with pocket change.
Key Features
Felix Schlag's Monticello reverse design; 'Five Cents' denomination; smooth edge rim
Color & Finish
Silver-grey metallic color with a dull, circulated luster; features surface scratches and environmental toning
Hallmarks & Stamps
Reverse features 'MONTICELLO', 'FIVE CENTS', 'E PLURIBUS UNUM', and 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA'
Dimensions Estimate
21.21 mm diameter, 1.95 mm thickness
Gemstones & Inlays
None
Clasp & Closure
N/A (Plain, smooth edge)
Chain & Links
N/A (Standard coin edge)
Craftsmanship Details
Mass-produced US Mint strike; die-struck on a solid alloy planchet with centered alignment and clear typography
Authentication Indicators
Weight-to-size ratio matches standard cupro-nickel specifications; design elements are consistent with genuine US currency; magnetic properties would be non-magnetic
Origin & Maker
United States Mint
Era & Period
Modern Era (Design introduced 1938; current piece likely post-1945)
Age Estimate
Likely minted between 1946 and the present day (Reverse lacks large mint mark above dome used 1942-1945)
Cultural Significance
One of the most common denominations in the US monetary system; symbolizes American architecture and presidential history
Condition Notes
Circulated/Good; visible surface scratches, scuffs on the building dome, and loss of original mint luster
Value Estimate
Face value of $0.05 USD; no precious metal melt value; negligible numismatic premium in this condition
Care & Maintenance
No special care needed; cleaning is generally discouraged for coins as it can damage numismatic value
Similar Items
1942-1945 Silver 'Wartime' Nickels (contain silver), Buffalo Nickels (earlier design), Proof Nickels (high mirror finish)
Interesting Facts
During WWII (1942-1945), nickels were made with 35% silver because nickel was a strategic war metal. This coin is not from that 'Wartime' silver series.