Obverse:
The obverse features a left-facing portrait of Thomas Jefferson, third President of the United States and principal author of the Declaration of Independence. The design includes the inscriptions IN GOD WE TRUST, LIBERTY, and the year 1994.

Reverse:
The reverse depicts Monticello, Jefferson’s Virginia estate and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The classical building symbolizes Enlightenment ideals, education, and Jefferson’s influence on American architecture and political thought. Inscriptions include E PLURIBUS UNUM, MONTICELLO, FIVE CENTS, and UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.

Specifications:

• Composition: Copper-nickel (75% copper, 25% nickel)

• Weight: 5.00 g

• Diameter: 21.21 mm

• Edge: Plain

• Alignment: Coin (180°)

• Mint mark: D (Denver)

Historical Insight:
The Jefferson nickel was first introduced in 1938 and has remained in near-continuous production since, making it one of the longest-running U.S. coin designs. Monticello’s presence on the reverse reflects Jefferson’s role not only as a statesman, but also as an architect and philosopher.

Collecting Note:
While common in circulation, Jefferson nickels are widely collected by date and mint. Coins with documented provenance, such as storage unit finds, add narrative context and real-world circulation history to an otherwise standard issue.