Jefferson Nickel 1939 BU

The Jefferson Nickel 1939 BU (Brilliant Uncirculated) is a significant piece of American coinage, representing the second year of the Jefferson Nickel series. This coin, which continued to honor the legacy of Thomas Jefferson, marks a key moment in U.S. numismatic history. The Jefferson Nickel was introduced to replace the Buffalo Nickel, which had been in circulation since 1913. The transition to this new design reflected the U.S. Mint's desire to modernize its coinage while paying tribute to one of the nation’s founding fathers. The 1939 nickel is particularly notable as it serves as a link between the initial release of the series and the broader themes of American identity and values.

The design of the Jefferson Nickel was conceived by artist Felix Schlag, who won a competition organized by the United States Mint to create the new nickel design. On the obverse, the coin features a striking portrait of Thomas Jefferson, capturing his likeness with remarkable detail. Jefferson’s dignified expression and distinct hairstyle are highlighted, with the inscription “LIBERTY” prominently displayed above the portrait. The year of minting, “1939,” is found to the right of his image. This design choice pays homage to Jefferson’s contributions as the principal author of the Declaration of Independence and as the third President of the United States, showcasing his enduring impact on American history.

The reverse of the coin features an intricate depiction of Monticello, Jefferson’s cherished Virginia estate. The design captures the architectural beauty of Monticello, showcasing its iconic dome and portico. Above the building, the phrase “E PLURIBUS UNUM” is inscribed, which translates to “Out of many, one,” symbolizing the unity of the states. At the bottom of the reverse, the denomination “FIVE CENTS” is clearly stated. This design not only highlights Jefferson's architectural legacy but also reflects the values of unity and democracy that are central to the American ethos.

The minting of the 1939 Jefferson Nickel took place at multiple facilities, including the Philadelphia Mint, the Denver Mint, and the San Francisco Mint. The 1939 nickel produced at the Philadelphia Mint had a total mintage of approximately 19,000,000 coins. The Denver Mint issued around 8,000,000 coins, while the San Francisco Mint produced a smaller quantity of about 5,000,000 coins. Collectively, these mintage figures indicate that the 1939 nickel is relatively common compared to some other key dates in the Jefferson Nickel series. However, specific varieties, such as the San Francisco mint mark, are still sought after by collectors due to their lower mintage numbers.

The condition of the 1939 Jefferson Nickel plays a crucial role in determining its value and desirability among collectors. A coin graded as Brilliant Uncirculated (BU) is characterized by its original luster, having never been circulated or subjected to wear. BU coins showcase bright, shiny surfaces and crisp details, reflecting the quality of the minting process. Collectors place a high premium on BU coins, as they represent the finest examples of a particular issue. The 1939 nickel in BU condition is especially desirable for its aesthetic appeal and historical significance, representing a well-preserved piece of numismatic history.

The Jefferson Nickel series has become a cornerstone of American coin collecting, with the 1939 coin being a key date for many enthusiasts. Its introduction continued the legacy established by the first coin in the series and allowed collectors to appreciate the evolution of American currency. The 1939 nickel is not only a beautiful piece of art but also a vital component in the broader narrative of U.S. coinage, representing the enduring values of freedom and democracy.

As collectors pursue the 1939 Jefferson Nickel, they often seek to complete sets that include both the first and second issues of the series. The 1939 nickel serves as an essential piece for many collectors, who appreciate its historical context and its place in the larger story of American coinage. The market for the 1939 nickel remains strong, with demand driven by both seasoned collectors and newcomers eager to own a piece of history that captures the essence of American ideals.

The 1939 Jefferson Nickel also reflects the Mint's practices during the late 1930s. This period was marked by a commitment to modernizing coin designs while honoring the nation’s history. The decision to continue featuring Thomas Jefferson on a widely circulated coin was a testament to his lasting influence on American ideals. The Jefferson Nickel series as a whole showcases the Mint's ability to blend historical reverence with contemporary design sensibilities, resulting in a coin that resonates with collectors and the general public alike.

In conclusion, the 1939 Jefferson Nickel BU is an exceptional collectible that encapsulates a significant moment in American coinage history. With its elegant design, substantial mintage figures, and pristine uncirculated condition, this coin is highly valued among collectors. As part of the broader Jefferson Nickel series, it continues to captivate numismatists who seek to celebrate the legacy of Thomas Jefferson and the principles he embodied. The 1939 nickel is not merely a coin; it serves as a lasting reminder of the rich history of the United States and its commitment to the ideals of liberty and democracy.

• Denomination: N/A
• Year: 1939
• Diameter: N/A
• Mint Mark: N/A
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• Grade: N/A