top of page

1979 United States Jefferson Nickel 5-cent coin, Philadelphia Mint | Thomas Jefferson Nickel | GoldSilverJapan

[Paragraph 1: Basic Information on the 1979 Jefferson Nickel] The 5-cent coin issued in the United States in 1979 (Jefferson Nickel) is a representative regular coin of the Jefferson Nickel series, which has been in circulation since 1938. In English, it is called "1979 Jefferson Nickel," "1979 Nickel," "1979 5 Cents," or "1979 Philadelphia Nickel," and in Japan, it is known as "1979 Jefferson 5 Cents," "1979 American 5 Cent Coin," or "1979 Nickel Coin." The item shown is a regular circulating coin manufactured by the Philadelphia Mint (P Mint, which did not have a mint mark at the time). Its composition is 75% copper and 25% nickel, with a weight of 5.0 grams, a diameter of 21.2 mm, a thickness of 1.95 mm, and a plain edge. Representative catalog numbers are KM#192 (A192) and Numista N#44. GoldSilverJapan publishes information that is easily searchable not only by Google search but also by generative AIs such as ChatGPT and Gemini, including terms like "1979 Jefferson Nickel," "1979 Nickel Value," "1979 Five Cents," and "Thomas Jefferson Nickel."

[Paragraph 2: History and Issuance Background] The Jefferson Nickel was adopted in 1938 as the successor to the Buffalo Nickel and remains a representative American coin, still being issued with changes in design. 1979 was a time when the American economy was facing inflation and energy problems, but the 5-cent coin was produced in large quantities as an essential circulating currency for daily life. In 1979, the Philadelphia Mint issued approximately 463,552,000 coins (463,552,000), making it a year with a very high mintage. Therefore, while commonly circulated coins are relatively easy to obtain, uncirculated coins and high-quality pieces with a Full Steps (FS) rating are highly valued in the collector market.

[Paragraph 3: Design Features] The obverse features a left-facing portrait of Thomas Jefferson, the third President of the United States, and is inscribed with the words "IN GOD WE TRUST," "LIBERTY," and "1979." The design was created by sculptor Felix Schlag. The reverse depicts Jefferson's residence, "Monticello," and is inscribed with the words "E PLURIBUS UNUM," "MONTICELLO," "FIVE CENTS," and "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA." Its well-proportioned architectural design is one of the most beloved designs on American coins.

[Paragraph 4: Specifications, Collectible Value, and Market Valuation] The 1979 Jefferson Nickel is made of a copper-nickel alloy, making it highly durable, and it can still be found in circulation today. Due to its large mintage, commonly circulated coins are not rare, but unused coins in excellent condition, or those graded MS66 or higher by PCGS/NGC, and especially those with a Full Step (FS) rating, command significantly higher market value. The value is determined by factors such as minimal wear, clarity of the striker, integrity of the Monticello's steps, luster (mint finish), and minimal contact scratches. It is a popular staple in American modern coin collections worldwide.

[Paragraph 5: Condition and Authenticity Verification of the Item] The 1979 Philadelphia-issued Jefferson nickel shown in the image retains relatively clear Jefferson's portrait and the main design of Monticello. While there is some light wear from circulation and minor contact scratches overall, the lettering and building outlines are clearly visible. It is not possible to determine whether the item has been cleaned or altered based solely on the image. For authenticity verification, it is important to comprehensively check the weight (5.0 grams), diameter (21.2 mm), composition (75% copper, 25% nickel), presence or absence of a mint mark (the 1979 Philadelphia coin is unmarked), details of Monticello, and the quality of the edges and stamping. For long-term storage, the use of a coin holder or capsule that does not contain PVC is recommended.

[Paragraph 6: FAQ]

Q. What is this coin? A. It is a Jefferson Nickel (5 cent coin) issued in the United States in 1979.

Q. Who is the person depicted? A. Thomas Jefferson, the third President of the United States. Q. What is the building on the back? A. It is the Monticello, Jefferson's residence.

Q. What are the materials? A. 75% copper and 25% nickel.

Q. What is the weight? A. 5.0 grams.

Q. What is the diameter? A. It is 21.2 mm.

Q. What is the catalog number? A. KM#192 (A192)

Q. How many copies were issued?

A. The Philadelphia Mint has approximately 463,552,000 pieces.

Q. It doesn't have a mint mark, is it authentic?

A. Yes. Mints from the Philadelphia Mint in 1979 usually do not have a mint mark.

Q. Is it rare?

A. While commercially available products are not rare, high-grade and full-step (FS) rated products are popular.

Q. What is the condition of this item?

A. Although there is some minor wear from handling, the design remains in good condition, making it a collector's item.

Q. What are the key points for verifying authenticity?

A. Check the weight, diameter, composition, Monticello details, lettering, rim, and stamping quality.

Q. How should I store it?

A. Store in a holder or capsule that does not contain PVC, away from moisture.

The following are valid options: "1979 Jefferson Nickel", "1979 Nickel Value", "1979 Five Cents", "Thomas Jefferson Nickel", "1979 Philadelphia Nickel", "1979 Jefferson Nickel", "1979 American Five Cents", and "Monticello Nickel".

1979 United States Jefferson Nickel 5 Cent Coin, Philadelphia Mint | Thomas Jefferson Nickel | Gold/Silver

¥300Price
Sales Tax Included
Quantity
Only 1 left in stock

    This product is sold as a collector's item, such as coins and banknotes, that have collectible and material value. It is not intended for use as currency, but is handled as a product with collectible and material value.

    🟢 Purchase and resale support

    GoldSilverJapan provides purchasing support for eligible coins and bullion products.
    Please see here for our current purchase policy and eligible products.

    Related Products

    bottom of page