12 facts about 1938 Jefferson Nickel
New Nickel Design: The 1938 Jefferson Nickel marked the debut of the Jefferson series, replacing the long-running Buffalo Nickel.
Designer: The coin's designer, Felix Schlag, won a design competition to create the new Jefferson portrait. His initials, "FS," can be found on the coin, near the hem of Jefferson's coat.
Obverse Design: The obverse of the coin features a left-facing profile of President Thomas Jefferson, the third President of the United States.
Reverse Design: The reverse design showcases an image of Jefferson's Virginia home, Monticello, with the word "Monticello" engraved above it.
Historical Context: The Jefferson Nickel was introduced during a time when Europe was embroiled in World War II, reflecting the changing global landscape.
Composition: The 1938 Jefferson Nickel is composed of 75% copper and 25% nickel, giving it a distinctive appearance and heft.
Mintage Locations: These nickels were minted in Philadelphia (no mint mark), Denver (D mint mark), and San Francisco (S mint mark).
Low Mintage: The 1938-D (Denver) Jefferson Nickel had a relatively low mintage compared to other years in the series, making it a collectible coin.
Collector's Interest: Jefferson Nickels have a dedicated following among coin collectors, with enthusiasts seeking various dates and mintmarks.
Numismatic Varieties: As with many coin series, the Jefferson Nickel has a range of varieties, including mint errors and die varieties, that add to its appeal among collectors.
Numismatic Literature: There are books and publications dedicated to the study and collection of Jefferson Nickels, providing valuable insights for collectors.
Legacy of Innovation: The 1938 Jefferson Nickel represents a new era in American coin design and innovation, as the U.S. Mint sought to create a modern and distinctive coinage.