Numismatic

1941 Jefferson Nickel PF-66 NGC

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In 1941, the United States Mint produced a limited run of proof coins, including a small mintage of just 18,720 Jefferson Nickels. This particular coin has survived in an exceptional state of preservation, earning a high grade of Proof 66. Striking proof coins of this era required polished dies and planchets, resulting in a level of detail and reflectivity that stands out dramatically from the coins found in everyday pocket change at the time. The obverse features a profile portrait of Thomas Jefferson, the nation's third president. Facing left, the portrait is accompanied by the familiar inscriptions of national identity, including the word Liberty and the year 1941, alongside the motto of trust. This design was created by Felix O. Schlag, whose work came to define the five cent piece for generations. On the reverse, the coin displays a detailed depiction of Monticello, Jefferson's historic Virginia estate. The neoclassical plantation home is centered on the coin, flanked by the traditional Latin motto meaning out of many, one, and the denomination of five cents. The name of the country of origin is proudly displayed along the lower rim, completing a design that balances architectural elegance with patriotic symbolism.