The five-cent coin of the United States, commonly referred to as the “nickel,” features Thomas Jefferson, the third U.S. president, on the obverse (heads) side. The reverse (tails) side depicts Monticello, Jefferson’s primary plantation near Charlottesville, Virginia.
The depiction of Jefferson on this denomination is a tribute to his significant contributions to American history, including his authorship of the Declaration of Independence and his role in the Louisiana Purchase. Monticellos presence further connects the imagery to Jefferson’s legacy. The design has undergone some modifications over time, most notably the shift of Jefferson’s portrait from profile to a forward-facing view in 2006. This enduring design underscores the coin’s role in everyday commerce and its function as a small but constant reminder of a pivotal figure in American history.
