A Gem Proof from the Modern Era of the Jefferson Nickel

This listing offers an exceptional opportunity to acquire a 1975-S Jefferson Nickel, certified and encapsulated by the Professional Coin Grading Service, or PCGS, at the prestigious PR69DCAM, or Proof 69 Deep Cameo, grade. This coin represents the pinnacle of modern proof minting, boasting sharp details, deep mirrored fields, and heavily frosted raised elements that create a striking cameo contrast.

This 1975-S Proof nickel is part of a series struck by the San Francisco Mint specifically for collectors and was produced with a relatively low mintage of 2,845,450 pieces. Attaining the near-perfect PR69 grade with the Deep Cameo designation is a testament to this coin's exceptional quality and eye appeal.

Historical Context: The Jefferson Nickel Series

The Jefferson Nickel debuted in 1938, replacing the beloved Buffalo Nickel which had been in circulation for the minimum required 25 years. The United States Mint held a public design competition, drawing 390 entrants with the requirement that Thomas Jefferson appear on the obverse and his Virginia home, Monticello, on the reverse.

German-born American sculptor Felix Schlag won the one thousand dollar prize. His obverse design features a bust of Jefferson facing left, based on Jean-Antoine Houdon's famous 1789 portrait. The reverse depicts Monticello in a head-on view, as Schlag's original three-quarters perspective was modified by the Treasury Department before production. Schlag's initials FS were added to the obverse shoulder in 1966.

Design and Specifications

The obverse, designed by Felix Schlag, features a bust of Thomas Jefferson facing left. The motto IN GOD WE TRUST appears on the left periphery, while LIBERTY and the date 1975 are on the right. The S mint mark is positioned below the date. The reverse features a detailed depiction of Monticello, Jefferson's neoclassical mansion in Virginia. The name MONTICELLO is centered beneath the building, with FIVE CENTS and UNITED STATES OF AMERICA around the periphery, and E PLURIBUS UNUM at the top.

Product Specifications

Denomination: 5 Cents, Nickel
Year: 1975
Mint: San Francisco, S mint mark
Grade: PR69DCAM
Certification: PCGS
Designer: Felix Schlag
Composition: 75 percent Copper, 25 percent Nickel
Weight: 5.00 grams
Diameter: 21.20 millimeters
Edge: Plain
Mintage: 2,845,450 pieces
PCGS Number: 94208

Understanding the Deep Cameo Proof Finish

Proof coins are struck with specially polished dies and planchets, undergoing multiple strikes to achieve a sharp, detailed finish with mirror-like surfaces. The Deep Cameo, or DCAM, designation is awarded to proof coins exhibiting a strong, visually apparent contrast between the highly reflective fields and the heavily frosted raised devices, a hallmark of exceptional minting quality.

This coin has been authenticated and graded by PCGS, one of the most respected third-party grading services in the numismatic industry. It is securely housed in a durable, tamper-evident PCGS plastic slab, which protects the coin's condition and guarantees its authenticity for future generations.

The PR69DCAM, or Proof 69 Deep Cameo, grade indicates a near-perfect proof coin with exceptional eye appeal, virtually no visible imperfections under magnification, and bold cameo contrast. In auction records, PR70DCAM examples have sold for significant premiums, highlighting the desirability of top-grade Deep Cameo specimens.

Why This Coin Deserves a Place in Your Collection

This coin carries certified authenticity and grade, as the PCGS slab provides a lifetime guarantee of the coin's genuineness and grade. It is a gem proof quality example, with the PR69DCAM grade indicating a nearly flawless coin with striking cameo contrast, a highly desirable designation for modern proofs. It features a classic design, with Felix Schlag's iconic Jefferson portrait and the Monticello reverse, a cornerstone of American numismatics for over 85 years. Most of all, with a total mintage of just over 2.8 million, this coin is part of a finite and collectible issue.

This coin is more than currency. It is a gem proof from the modern era of the Jefferson Nickel, offering a near-flawless example with exceptional cameo contrast. For the discerning collector, it represents a truly significant and desirable acquisition.

The auction is live. Coins of this caliber do not appear often. Place your bid and secure this remarkable piece of history for your collection.

Dimensions:
Height 4.5, Width 3, Depth 0.5 inches
Weight 0.1 lbs

Condition:
Excellent

Your purchase is protected:
In the rare event that the item did not conform to the lot description in the sale, Chairish Auctions specialists are here to help. Buyers may return the item for a full refund provided you notify Chairish Au

• Low Estimate: 150.00
• High Estimate: 300.00