1986-P Jefferson Nickel (Cupro-Nickel Composition)
Coin (Numismatic/Circulation) · None (Cupro-Nickel Alloy). The grey/silver color is characteristic of nickel-plated copper or solid cupro-nickel commonly used in U.S. base-metal coinage.
Purity: Non-Gold (0% Purity / 0 Karat). This item is composed of 75% copper and 25% nickel. It does not contain gold content in any form (solid, plated, or filled).
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Circulation)
Purity
Non-Gold (0% Purity / 0 Karat). This item is composed of 75% copper and 25% nickel. It does not contain gold content in any form (solid, plated, or filled).
Gold Type
None (Cupro-Nickel Alloy). The grey/silver color is characteristic of nickel-plated copper or solid cupro-nickel commonly used in U.S. base-metal coinage.
Weight
5.0 grams (standard US Nickel weight). Base metal coins have a much lower density than gold, which would weigh approximately 11-12 grams in this exact size.
Description
A circulated 1986 Philadelphia-minted Jefferson Nickel. This coin features the classic profile of Thomas Jefferson facing left. It is a base metal circulation coin, not a bullion item. The surface shows heavy contact marks and environmental toning, which is common for coins of this vintage found in pocket change.
Key Features
'P' mint mark indicating Philadelphia origin; 1986 date; smooth edges; profile of the 3rd US President. Note the lack of 'Full Steps' on the reverse (implied by general condition).
Color & Finish
Dull silver-grey with significant surface oxidation, spotting, and circulation wear. The finish is consistent with a business strike that has undergone heavy handling, resulting in a matte, pewter-like patina.
Hallmarks & Stamps
'P' mint mark (Philadelphia Mint) located to the right of the date; 'IN GOD WE TRUST' on the left; 'LIBERTY' and '1986' on the right; 'FS' (Felix Schlag) initials usually found on the base of the bust.
Dimensions Estimate
21.21 mm in diameter, 1.95 mm in thickness (U.S. Standard).
Gemstones & Inlays
None.
Clasp & Closure
None (Plain, reeded-less smooth edge typical of the Jefferson Nickel series).
Chain & Links
None (Solid planchet construction).
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-struck business issue. The strike appears average for the 1980s era, with standard relief height and utilitarian durability designed for high-velocity circulation.
Authentication Indicators
Weight and diameter match U.S. Mint specifications for a nickel; color is correct for cupro-nickel; 'P' mint mark placement is consistent for 1986. Magnetism check: Cupro-nickel is non-magnetic (like gold), but the weight-to-size ratio clearly identifies it as base metal.
Origin & Maker
United States Mint, Philadelphia branch (indicated by the 'P' mint mark).
Era & Period
Modern Era (Cold War / Late 20th Century). Designed by Felix Schlag in 1938; this specific piece is a 1986 business strike.
Age Estimate
Produced in 1986; approximately 38 years old.
Cultural Significance
Represents 20th-century American commerce and currency standardization. Thomas Jefferson is honored on the coin for his role as the author of the Declaration of Independence.
Condition Notes
Circulated/Good. Visible surface scratches, dark spotting (oxidation), and flattened high points in the hair and facial features. Not a 'Proof' or 'Uncirculated' specimen.
Value Estimate
Face value of $0.05 USD. Melt value of the raw copper and nickel is approximately $0.02 - $0.03 depending on current market prices. This is not a gold investment piece.
Care & Maintenance
No special care required as it is a low-value circulation coin. Avoid cleaning with abrasives as it destroys numismatic value. Store in a dry environment to prevent further oxidation.
Similar Items
1986-D Nickel (Denver Mint), 1986-S Proof Nickel (San Francisco Mint - higher luster), or gold-plated 'novelty' nickels often sold as collector items which have no real gold value.
Interesting Facts
The 1986-P Nickel had a high mintage of over 536 million pieces, making it very common. Nickels were only made of 'Silver' (35%) during WWII (1942-1945) and have never been produced in gold for general circulation.