12 facts about 1989 Jefferson Nickel
Sculptor's Imprint: The obverse side of the 1989 Jefferson Nickel was designed by Felix Schlag, whose initials "FS" can be found right under Jefferson's bust.
Mint Mark Mystery: Unlike other Jefferson Nickels, the 1989 version lacks a mint mark. This was due to the fact that all 1989 nickels were produced at the Philadelphia Mint.
Special Alloy: This particular nickel is composed of a unique alloy – 75% copper and 25% nickel – giving it a distinctive composition compared to its predecessors.
Inaugural Year: The year 1989 marked the bicentennial of Thomas Jefferson's presidency, making this nickel a noteworthy commemorative piece.
Proofs and Business Strikes: Apart from the standard circulation coins, the 1989 Jefferson Nickel was also produced in proof and business strike versions, each with its own level of detail and finish.
Die Varieties: Keen collectors can hunt for different die varieties, including those with doubled features or distinct minting anomalies.
Low Mintage: Compared to other years, the mintage of the 1989 Jefferson Nickel was relatively low, making it a prized find for numismatists.
Transitional Errors: Some coins exhibit transitional errors from the change in the alloy's composition, resulting in unique coloration or imperfections.
Uncirculated Treasures: Uncirculated 1989 Jefferson Nickels can still be found in their original mint packaging, providing a glimpse into the past.
Collectible Packaging: The U.S. Mint released special collector sets for the 1989 Jefferson Nickel, enhancing its desirability among coin enthusiasts.
Numismatic Evolution: This coin showcases the evolution of numismatic technology, with its specific alloy and minting process capturing a moment in history.