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The Jefferson Nickel Roll 1975-D Uncirculated represents a key collectible item from the mid-1970s, offering both historical interest and exceptional preservation for numismatists and enthusiasts. Each roll includes forty coins, all dated 1975 and struck at the Denver Mint, totaling two dollars in face value. These nickels are preserved in Uncirculated condition, meaning they have never entered circulation and retain their original mint luster, sharp strike details, and untouched surfaces. As part of a broader series that began in 1938, the 1975-D Jefferson nickel continues the long-running tribute to Thomas Jefferson, one of America’s most iconic Founding Fathers.
The obverse of the 1975-D Jefferson nickel continues to feature Felix Schlag’s classic left-facing portrait of Thomas Jefferson. Surrounding the image is the inscription “IN GOD WE TRUST” along the left rim, while “LIBERTY” and the year “1975” appear along the right. A small five-pointed star separates the motto and date. The “D” mintmark, indicating production at the Denver Mint, is located just to the right of Jefferson’s ponytail. In Uncirculated condition, this obverse design is rendered in sharp detail, with crisp hairlines, clearly defined facial features, and no signs of wear. The luster is typically brilliant or satiny, depending on storage conditions.
The reverse depicts Jefferson’s neoclassical estate, Monticello, beneath the inscription “E PLURIBUS UNUM.” The word “MONTICELLO” appears directly below the building, followed by “FIVE CENTS” and “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.” In well-struck examples, fine architectural details such as the dome, columns, and stairs are fully visible, and coins may qualify for the Full Steps (FS) designation if five or six uninterrupted steps appear at the base of Monticello. The FS designation is a significant indicator of strike quality and is a prized characteristic for Jefferson nickel collectors, particularly from mint state rolls such as this one.
In 1975, the U.S. Mint operated without releasing any quarter, half dollar, or dollar coins bearing the date 1975, as the bicentennial versions were being prepared and dated 1776–1976. However, the nickel (as well as the penny and dime) continued with a standard 1975 issue, creating an interesting historical distinction among coinage from that year. The Denver Mint struck an impressive 401,875,300 Jefferson nickels dated 1975, making it a high-mintage year. Yet, despite the quantity produced, well-preserved Uncirculated rolls have become more scarce with time due to circulation, oxidation, and collector demand for quality specimens.
The 1975-D nickel is made from a composition of 75% copper and 25% nickel, bonded to a pure copper core. It weighs 5 grams, has a diameter of 21.2 millimeters, and features a smooth, plain edge. The durability of the cupronickel alloy has helped many coins survive the decades without extensive tarnish or corrosion, especially when stored in archival conditions. Uncirculated rolls that have been preserved carefully retain bright luster, clean fields, and attractive eye appeal, making them ideal for collectors who prize original mint condition and aesthetic quality.
Rolls in Uncirculated condition are often sourced from original bank-wrapped sets or dealer holdings from the time of issue. Depending on their storage history, some rolls may feature toned coins, which can range from attractive blue and gold hues to more mottled or darkened appearances. However, the most desirable rolls contain coins with full mint brilliance and minimal contact marks. Collectors typically prefer rolls that have not been rewrapped or handled extensively, as original mint rolls often offer the best chance at discovering gem-quality pieces with sharp strikes and potential for third-party grading submissions.
The strike quality of the 1975-D Jefferson nickel varies, with many coins exhibiting average to above-average sharpness. Denver was known for producing coins with strong strikes during this era, increasing the likelihood of finding Full Steps examples in Uncirculated rolls. While not all coins in a roll will meet the criteria for FS, dedicated collectors often search through multiple rolls to locate such premium specimens. Those that do earn FS designations from NGC or PCGS can carry significant premiums on the open market, particularly in high mint state grades such as MS66 or MS67.
From a numismatic perspective, the 1975-D Jefferson nickel holds a stable place in mid-20th-century U.S. coinage. It serves as a representative of a year marked by political and economic transition, including the aftermath of the Vietnam War and the winding down of the Watergate scandal. Though not commemorative or rare by mintage, the coin reflects the enduring popularity of Jefferson and the national commitment to consistency in coinage even during turbulent times. The Denver Mint’s efficiency and output ensured a steady supply of nickels, but collectors today prize those coins that survived untouched and in pristine condition.
Uncirculated 1975-D nickel rolls are valued both for their intrinsic metal content and for their numismatic potential. In general, market values range from $8 to $20 per roll, depending on the quality of the coins, the presence of Full Steps candidates, and the originality of the packaging. Dealers and collectors alike continue to seek out high-quality rolls to meet the demand for type set building, Jefferson series completion, or grading prospects. As time progresses, original mint state rolls become harder to locate, especially those that have not been cherry-picked or compromised by poor storage conditions.
In conclusion, the Jefferson Nickel Roll 1975-D Uncirculated is a desirable collectible that bridges historical interest, aesthetic quality, and potential investment value. It represents a high-mintage yet increasingly elusive issue from the post-silver era of American coinage. With sharp designs, enduring luster, and a mintmark marking Denver’s continued role in coin production, the 1975-D nickel offers collectors a tangible connection to mid-1970s America. Whether preserved as a full roll or searched for individual gems, this roll remains a foundational piece in any modern U.S. coin collection.