1938 Jefferson Nickel

About This Coin

The 1938 Jefferson Nickel is a United States nickel from the Jefferson Nickels Original Design 1938-2003 series. The obverse features Thomas Jefferson facing left, while the reverse displays Monticello, Thomas Jefferson's Virginia estate. Designed by Felix Schlag. Struck in 75% copper, 25% nickel, weighing 5 grams, 21.2 mm in diameter, with a plain edge. Felix Schlag won the 1938 public design competition for the Jefferson Nickel, defeating nearly 400 entries. His original obverse was modified by the Mint to provide a more realistic likeness. From 1942 to 1945, the composition changed to 35% silver to conserve nickel for the war effort, and a large mintmark was placed above Monticello to distinguish these wartime issues. Wartime silver nickels (1942-P, 1942-S, 1943-1945 P/D/S) are collected for their silver content. Key dates include the 1939-D, 1950-D, and Full Steps (FS) designation specimens.