Who's On The Nickel? The Story Behind The US Five-Cent Coin

Hey there, fellow coin enthusiasts! Ever wondered who exactly is the face gracing the US nickel? It's a question that might pop into your head as you're jingling change in your pocket or emptying your wallet. Well, you've come to the right place to uncover this piece of American history. Let's dive into the fascinating story behind the nickel's iconic portrait and the man it represents: Thomas Jefferson, one of the most influential figures in American history.

Thomas Jefferson: The Man on the Nickel

So, who is this distinguished gentleman staring back at us from the five-cent coin? It's none other than Thomas Jefferson, the third President of the United States and a true Renaissance man. Jefferson was a Founding Father, the principal author of the Declaration of Independence, a lawyer, an architect, a philosopher, and a passionate advocate for liberty and democracy. His contributions to the birth and development of the United States are immeasurable, and his legacy continues to shape the nation today. The decision to feature Jefferson on the nickel was a tribute to his profound impact on American history and his unwavering commitment to the ideals of freedom and self-governance. But how exactly did his face end up on this particular coin? That's a story worth exploring.

Why Thomas Jefferson? The History Behind the Choice

The decision to feature Thomas Jefferson on the nickel wasn't just a random one; it was a deliberate choice rooted in history and symbolism. In 1904, the United States Mint was looking to redesign the existing nickel, which featured the Liberty Head design. President Theodore Roosevelt, a known admirer of classical art and architecture, wanted the new coin to reflect the nation's ideals and heritage. He believed that a portrait of a significant historical figure would be a more fitting tribute than an allegorical representation of liberty. Jefferson, with his pivotal role in the American Revolution and his advocacy for democratic principles, emerged as the perfect candidate. His commitment to individual liberty, his vision for a nation founded on self-governance, and his multifaceted talents made him an ideal symbol for the American spirit. In addition, 1943 was the 200th anniversary of Thomas Jefferson's birth, adding another layer of significance to the decision to place him on the nickel. It was a way to commemorate his legacy and remind Americans of the values he championed.

The Jefferson Nickel Design: A Closer Look

The Jefferson nickel, as we know it today, wasn't the original design. The first Jefferson nickel, designed by Felix Schlag, was introduced in 1938. The obverse, or front, of the coin features a portrait of Jefferson facing left, a dignified and thoughtful expression on his face. This portrait was based on a bust of Jefferson created by the French sculptor Jean-Antoine Houdon in 1789. The word "LIBERTY" arches above Jefferson's head, while "IN GOD WE TRUST" is inscribed to the left of his portrait. The date is placed below his likeness. The reverse, or back, of the coin depicts Monticello, Jefferson's iconic home in Virginia. This neoclassical masterpiece, designed by Jefferson himself, reflects his architectural talent and his love for classical design. The words "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" and "E PLURIBUS UNUM" (meaning "Out of many, one") are inscribed above and below Monticello, respectively. The denomination, "FIVE CENTS," is placed beneath the building. Over the years, the Jefferson nickel has undergone some minor design changes, but the core elements – Jefferson's portrait and Monticello – have remained consistent. These elements serve as a constant reminder of Jefferson's contributions and the values he held dear.

Wartime Nickels: A Temporary Change

During World War II, the composition of the nickel underwent a temporary change due to the wartime demand for nickel metal. From 1942 to 1945, the nickel's composition was altered to include silver, copper, and manganese, reducing the need for nickel in the war effort. These wartime nickels, often called "silver nickels," are easily identifiable by their silver color and the large mintmark above Monticello on the reverse. The mintmark indicates where the coin was produced, with "P" for Philadelphia, "D" for Denver, and "S" for San Francisco. The wartime nickels are a fascinating piece of numismatic history, reflecting the nation's efforts during a time of global conflict. They serve as a reminder of the sacrifices made during the war and the resourcefulness of the American people.

The Westward Journey Nickels: A Brief Interlude

In 2004 and 2005, the Jefferson nickel underwent a significant, albeit temporary, redesign as part of the Westward Journey Nickel Series. This series commemorated the bicentennial of the Louisiana Purchase and the Lewis and Clark Expedition. In 2004, two new reverse designs were introduced: the Peace Medal design and the Keelboat design. The Peace Medal design depicts a symbolic representation of the peace medals given to Native American chiefs during the Lewis and Clark Expedition. The Keelboat design showcases the keelboat used by the expedition to navigate the Missouri River. In 2005, the obverse of the nickel was also redesigned, featuring a new portrait of Jefferson by Joe Fitzgerald. This portrait, known as the "American Bison" design, depicts Jefferson in a more contemporary style, looking forward with a sense of determination. A new reverse design was also introduced in 2005: the "Ocean in View" design, which captures the expedition's view of the Pacific Ocean. These Westward Journey nickels were a unique and engaging way to celebrate American history and explore the nation's westward expansion. While the designs were temporary, they added a fresh perspective to the Jefferson nickel and sparked renewed interest in the coin.

Collecting Jefferson Nickels: A Hobby for Everyone

Collecting Jefferson nickels can be a rewarding and fascinating hobby. With a vast array of dates, mintmarks, and varieties, there's always something new to discover. Whether you're a seasoned collector or just starting out, there are many ways to approach Jefferson nickel collecting. You can focus on collecting one of each date and mintmark, assembling a complete set of the regular-issue coins. You can also delve into the world of errors and varieties, seeking out nickels with unique characteristics or imperfections. The wartime nickels and the Westward Journey nickels offer additional collecting avenues, with their distinct designs and historical significance. Coin collecting is not only a hobby but also a way to learn about history, art, and economics. It's a tangible connection to the past and a way to appreciate the artistry and craftsmanship of coin design.

Jefferson's Enduring Legacy on the Nickel

Thomas Jefferson's presence on the nickel is more than just a portrait on a coin; it's a symbol of the ideals and values that shaped the United States. His commitment to liberty, his belief in self-governance, and his vision for a nation founded on democratic principles continue to resonate with Americans today. The Jefferson nickel serves as a constant reminder of his contributions and the enduring legacy he left behind. So, the next time you hold a nickel in your hand, take a moment to appreciate the face that graces its surface. It's the face of a man who helped shape the destiny of a nation, a man whose ideas continue to inspire us, and a man whose legacy is forever etched in American history and on the humble five-cent coin.

In conclusion, the man on the nickel is none other than Thomas Jefferson, a Founding Father, the third President of the United States, and a true champion of liberty. His presence on the coin is a testament to his profound impact on American history and his enduring legacy. From the original design by Felix Schlag to the temporary Westward Journey series, the Jefferson nickel has evolved over the years, but the core elements remain: Jefferson's portrait and Monticello. Whether you're a seasoned coin collector or simply curious about the history behind the coin in your pocket, the story of the Jefferson nickel is a fascinating journey through American history and design.