Jefferson Nickel 1938-D BU

The Jefferson Nickel 1938-D BU (Brilliant Uncirculated) is a remarkable piece of American coinage, representing the first year of the Jefferson Nickel series and the unique attributes that make it a sought-after collectible. The Jefferson Nickel was introduced to replace the Buffalo Nickel, which had been in circulation since 1913. The transition marked a significant change in U.S. coin design, as the Mint aimed to modernize its coinage while honoring one of America’s most influential founding figures, Thomas Jefferson. This particular coin, minted in Denver, reflects a pivotal moment in numismatic history, showcasing the evolution of American currency.

The design of the Jefferson Nickel was conceived by artist Felix Schlag, who won a competition held by the United States Mint to create a new nickel design. Schlag's design features a portrait of Thomas Jefferson on the obverse side, capturing his likeness in a way that highlights his prominent features and distinctive hairstyle. The inscription “LIBERTY” is positioned above the portrait, while the year of minting, “1938,” is located to the right. This design pays tribute to Jefferson’s legacy as a statesman, author of the Declaration of Independence, and the third President of the United States. His image on the coin serves as a reminder of the principles of freedom and democracy that he championed.

On the reverse side of the coin, Schlag depicted Monticello, Jefferson’s beloved Virginia estate, further emphasizing Jefferson’s connection to American history and architecture. The illustration of Monticello is meticulously rendered, showcasing its iconic dome and portico. Above the building, the motto “E PLURIBUS UNUM” is inscribed, symbolizing unity among the states, while the denomination “FIVE CENTS” is prominently displayed at the bottom. This design not only celebrates Jefferson’s contributions but also reflects the values of the nation, embodying the spirit of America as a land of opportunity and freedom.

The minting of the 1938-D Jefferson Nickel took place at the Denver Mint, one of several facilities responsible for producing U.S. coins. The 1938-D nickel has a total mintage of approximately 7,620,000 coins, making it less common than its Philadelphia counterpart, which had a mintage of over 19 million. The lower mintage of the Denver variety contributes to its appeal among collectors, as it represents a more limited availability in the marketplace. As with all coins, the mint mark located on the reverse side, just to the right of Monticello, indicates the location where the coin was produced, allowing collectors to identify and distinguish between different minting facilities.

The condition of the 1938-D Jefferson Nickel is a crucial factor in determining its value and desirability among collectors. A coin graded as Brilliant Uncirculated (BU) exhibits its original luster and has not experienced any significant wear or damage. BU coins are characterized by their bright, shiny surfaces and crisp details, reflecting the quality of the minting process. Collectors value BU coins for their aesthetic appeal, as they display well-defined features and minimal imperfections. The 1938-D nickel in BU condition is particularly sought after due to its historical significance and the rarity associated with coins from this minting year.

he Jefferson Nickel series has become a staple among American numismatics, with the 1938-D being a key date for many collectors. Its introduction marked the beginning of a long-lasting series that would undergo various design changes over the years, including the introduction of new compositions and commemorative issues. The 1938-D nickel, however, holds a special place in the hearts of collectors as the inaugural coin of the series, representing the transition from the Buffalo Nickel to a design that honors one of the nation’s founding fathers.

As collectors pursue this coin, they often seek to complete sets that include the first year of issue along with subsequent varieties. The 1938-D Jefferson Nickel serves as a foundational piece for many collectors, who appreciate its design, history, and the story it tells about the evolution of American coinage. The market for the 1938-D nickel remains strong, with demand driven by both seasoned collectors and newcomers alike, eager to own a piece of history that captures the essence of American ideals.

The 1938-D Jefferson Nickel is not only significant for its design and historical context, but it also offers a glimpse into the practices of the U.S. Mint during the late 1930s. This period was marked by economic challenges and a need for modernization, which the introduction of the Jefferson Nickel embodied. As the nation moved towards a new era, the decision to feature Thomas Jefferson on a widely circulated coin reflected a commitment to honoring the ideals of liberty and democracy that he so passionately advocated.

In summary, the 1938-D Jefferson Nickel BU is a remarkable collectible that represents a significant moment in American coinage history. With its striking design, lower mintage from the Denver Mint, and pristine uncirculated condition, this coin is highly prized by collectors. As part of the broader Jefferson Nickel series, it continues to capture the interest of numismatists who seek to celebrate the legacy of Thomas Jefferson and the values he embodied. The 1938-D nickel is not only a beautiful piece of art but also a lasting reminder of the rich history of the United States and its commitment to freedom and democracy.

• Denomination: N/A
• Year: 1938
• Diameter: N/A
• Mint Mark: N/A
• Thickness: N/A
• Grade: N/A