Numismatic

1971-S Jefferson Nickel Gem Proof

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The 1971 Jefferson nickel struck at the San Francisco Mint showcases the refined artistry of mid twentieth century American coinage. This particular specimen is a Gem Proof, a designation that highlights the exceptional quality of its manufacture, featuring sharp details and highly reflective surfaces that distinguish it from coins made for general circulation. On the obverse, a classic left-facing portrait of Thomas Jefferson dominates the field. The design, created by Felix O. Schlag, is accompanied by the familiar national mottoes and the 'S' mint mark, indicating its origin at the San Francisco facility. The reverse of the coin displays a detailed depiction of Monticello, Jefferson's famous Virginia estate. The neoclassical building is rendered with remarkable precision, from its central dome to its symmetrical wings. Inscriptions on this side include the traditional Latin phrase meaning 'out of many, one' alongside the denomination and the name of the issuing nation.