1940 Nickel Jefferson Coin

1940 Nickel Jefferson Coin Excellent condition, see photos. The 1940 Jefferson nickel stands as an early, classic representative of Felix Schlag’s iconic design, struck just two years after the series debuted to replace the Buffalo nickel. Minted at the main Philadelphia facility during a period of pre-WWII industrial stability, this coin features a left-facing portrait of Thomas Jefferson on the obverse and his historic Virginia estate, Monticello, on the reverse. Composed of the traditional pre-war alloy of 75% copper and 25% nickel, the 1940-P boasts a massive mintage of over 176 million pieces, making it a highly accessible and affordable anchor for vintage type sets in circulated grades. However, finding an uncirculated specimen that retains its original, vibrant mint luster and crisp design elements elevates its numismatic appeal. For discerning collectors, the ultimate prize is a high-grade 1940 nickel featuring the "Full Steps" (FS) designation, meaning the structural steps on the reverse depiction of Monticello are completely struck with clear, uninterrupted horizontal lines—a rare feat for this high-mintage, early-era issue.