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The Certified 2006-S Jefferson Nickel graded PF70 by NGC is a flawless, top-tier example of modern U.S. coinage that marks the beginning of a new era for the long-running Jefferson nickel series. Issued as part of the United States Mint’s annual proof coin program, the 2006-S Proof Jefferson Nickel features the new “Return to Monticello” reverse and a refined obverse portrait introduced after the completion of the 2004–2005 Westward Journey Nickel Series. With its perfect PF70 grade from NGC, this coin is preserved in pristine condition, with no post-production flaws visible under 5x magnification, offering collectors a museum-quality specimen of a significant modern design transition.
The year 2006 marked a return to tradition in some respects while incorporating a fresh and more modern artistic interpretation of America’s third president. Following the bicentennial redesigns that commemorated the Lewis and Clark expedition, the U.S. Mint introduced a permanent new obverse designed by Jamie Franki and sculpted by Donna Weaver. This bold new portrait shows Thomas Jefferson facing forward, making eye contact with the viewer—a first in U.S. coinage. The design reflects a more personal and direct representation of Jefferson and was intended to modernize his image for the 21st century.
The obverse of the 2006-S Proof Jefferson Nickel displays this modern portrait in sharp relief. Jefferson’s features are fully detailed, with crisp linework in his hair, eyes, and garments. The inscriptions “IN GOD WE TRUST” appears on the left, “LIBERTY” in Jefferson’s own handwriting script on the right, followed by the date “2006” and the mintmark “S” for San Francisco below. In PF70 condition, the portrait is perfectly frosted against deeply mirrored fields, exhibiting a flawless cameo effect. The fields are jet-black and free from haze, marks, or imperfections, creating a striking contrast and maximum eye appeal.
The reverse features a new version of the classic Monticello design, created by Felix Schlag and first used on the Jefferson nickel in 1938. For the 2006 release, the Mint re-sharpened and redefined the Monticello motif, bringing out clearer architectural lines and greater detail in Jefferson’s famed Virginia estate. The design is surrounded by the inscriptions “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” “E PLURIBUS UNUM,” and “FIVE CENTS.” In PF70 quality, every brick, column, and pediment on Monticello is rendered with stunning precision. The mirrored proof fields surrounding the building gleam with clarity and are unmarred by any signs of handling or strike weakness.
This coin was struck at the San Francisco Mint using specially prepared dies and highly polished planchets designed exclusively for proof coinage. Proof coins are not intended for circulation and are instead struck with multiple high-pressure strikes to bring out the sharpest possible detail and contrast. The “S” mintmark on the obverse identifies its proof origin. While tens of thousands of 2006-S Jefferson Nickels were produced for collectors, only a small fraction received the perfect PF70 grade from NGC, setting this coin apart from the rest of its issue as the highest condition collectible available.
NGC, one of the two most respected third-party grading services in the world, evaluates coins using rigorous standards. A PF70 grade from NGC indicates a coin that is perfect under magnification, with no flaws in strike, luster, or surface preservation. The coin is encapsulated in a tamper-evident holder that clearly displays its grade, date, and other identifying information, ensuring its protection and long-term stability. The holder also makes this coin eligible for NGC registry set inclusion, where collectors compete to build the finest sets of modern and classic U.S. coins.
Though the 2006-S Jefferson Nickel is a modern issue, its significance lies in its place as the first year of a permanent design change and a redefinition of Jefferson’s image. For collectors building complete Jefferson nickel sets, type sets, or U.S. proof collections, the 2006-S is a critical inclusion. PF70 examples provide the best possible visual representation of the design, offering both investment potential and display quality. These coins are also popular with collectors who specialize in presidential imagery or American architecture on coinage, as the reverse's Monticello depiction is one of the most enduring elements in American numismatic design.
The coin’s appearance in PF70 may also include natural toning depending on how it has been stored over time. Some examples show attractive golden or rainbow-like edge toning, which can further enhance their value and uniqueness. Most, however, retain bright, frosty devices and black mirrored fields that exemplify the best of modern U.S. Mint proof production. The flawless surfaces and strong cameo contrast make this a coin that shines under light and commands attention in any collection.
From a historical perspective, the 2006-S represents a pivotal moment in the Jefferson nickel's evolution. It bridges the past and future of the series—carrying forward the revered Monticello design while introducing a dynamic, forward-facing portrait that marked a departure from more static, profile busts of the past. This duality gives the coin enduring appeal among both traditional and modern collectors. Its status as a first-year design and its impeccable condition make it particularly desirable for those looking to secure premium modern U.S. coinage.
The Certified 2006-S Jefferson Nickel graded PF70 by NGC is a flawless example of a modern classic. It combines a fresh, historically resonant portrait of Thomas Jefferson with a revitalized architectural reverse, executed to the highest standards of U.S. Mint craftsmanship. For collectors seeking the absolute finest in contemporary numismatics, this PF70 example delivers perfection, beauty, and significance in equal measure—a true gem of the modern Jefferson nickel series.