What is a 1968 D Nickel?
The 1968 D Nickel is a five-cent piece struck by the United States Mint in Denver, Colorado in 1968. It is composed of 75% copper and 25% nickel and weighs 5 grams. The obverse (heads) of the coin features the Jefferson Memorial, while the reverse (tails) depicts the Monticello. The 1968 D Nickel is a common coin and is worth face value, although some varieties may be worth more to collectors.
Historical Context
The 1968 D Nickel was struck during a period of great change in the United States. The Vietnam War was raging, and the civil rights movement was gaining momentum. The coin's design, which features the Jefferson Memorial and Monticello, reflects the country's focus on its history and heritage during this time.Varieties
There are several varieties of the 1968 D Nickel, including:- The "Proof" variety, which was struck on a specially prepared planchet and has a mirror-like finish.
- The "Reverse Proof" variety, which has a frosted design on a mirrored field.
- The "Matte Proof" variety, which has a dull finish on both sides.
Collecting 1968 D Nickels
The 1968 D Nickel is a popular coin among collectors. The common varieties are relatively inexpensive, but the Proof and Reverse Proof varieties can be quite valuable. Collectors may also be interested in finding and collecting the different errors and varieties that exist for this coin.1968 D Nickel
The 1968 D Nickel is a five-cent piece struck by the United States Mint in Denver, Colorado in 1968. It is composed of 75% copper and 25% nickel and weighs 5 grams. The obverse (heads) of the coin features the Jefferson Memorial, while the reverse (tails) depicts the Monticello.
- Composition: 75% copper, 25% nickel
- Weight: 5 grams
- Obverse: Jefferson Memorial
- Reverse: Monticello
- Mint: Denver
- Year: 1968
- Value: 5 cents
The 1968 D Nickel is a common coin and is worth face value, although some varieties may be worth more to collectors. The coin's design, which features the Jefferson Memorial and Monticello, reflects the country's focus on its history and heritage during this time.
1. Composition
The composition of the 1968 D Nickel is 75% copper and 25% nickel. This composition gives the coin its distinctive color and weight. Copper is a relatively soft metal, so the addition of nickel helps to harden the coin and make it more durable. Nickel is also a more corrosion-resistant metal than copper, so the 1968 D Nickel is less likely to tarnish or discolor over time.
The composition of the 1968 D Nickel is also significant because it is the same composition as the United States nickel has been using since 1866. This means that the 1968 D Nickel is compatible with all of the vending machines and other devices that accept nickels. If the composition of the nickel were to change, it could cause problems with these devices.
The composition of the 1968 D Nickel is an important factor that contributes to its value and usability. The coin's copper content gives it a distinctive color and weight, while the nickel content helps to harden the coin and make it more durable. The fact that the 1968 D Nickel has the same composition as all other United States nickels means that it is compatible with all of the vending machines and other devices that accept nickels.
2. Weight
The weight of a 1968 D Nickel is 5 grams. This is significant because it is the standard weight for all United States nickels since 1866. The weight of a nickel is important because it affects the coin's size, thickness, and durability. A nickel that is too light may be too thin and easily damaged, while a nickel that is too heavy may be too thick and difficult to use in vending machines and other devices.
The weight of a nickel is also important for collectors. The weight of a nickel can be used to determine if a coin is genuine or counterfeit. Counterfeit nickels are often made of lighter metals, such as aluminum or zinc. By weighing a nickel, collectors can help to ensure that they are not purchasing a counterfeit coin.
The weight of a 1968 D Nickel is an important factor that contributes to its value and usability. The coin's weight helps to determine its size, thickness, and durability. The weight of a nickel can also be used to determine if a coin is genuine or counterfeit. Collectors should be aware of the weight of a 1968 D Nickel when buying or selling coins.
3. Obverse
The obverse (heads) of the 1968 D Nickel features the Jefferson Memorial, a neoclassical monument in Washington, D.C., dedicated to Thomas Jefferson, the third President of the United States. The memorial was designed by architect John Russell Pope and completed in 1943. It is a popular tourist destination and a symbol of American democracy.
- Symbolism
The Jefferson Memorial is a symbol of American democracy and the ideals of Thomas Jefferson. The memorial's design is based on the Pantheon in Rome, which was a temple dedicated to all the gods. The Jefferson Memorial is a secular building, but it has a similar sense of grandeur and monumentality. The memorial's inscription reads, "Thomas Jefferson, Author of the Declaration of American Independence, of the Statute of Virginia for Religious Freedom, and Father of the University of Virginia," which summarizes Jefferson's many accomplishments.
- Design
The Jefferson Memorial is a circular building with a diameter of 190 feet and a height of 90 feet. It is made of white marble and has a colonnade of 56 Ionic columns. The interior of the memorial is dominated by a 19-foot bronze statue of Jefferson by sculptor Rudulph Evans. The statue depicts Jefferson standing with his right hand raised and his left hand resting on a copy of the Declaration of Independence.
- History
The Jefferson Memorial was authorized by Congress in 1934 and completed in 1943. The memorial was dedicated on April 13, 1943, the 200th anniversary of Jefferson's birth. The memorial has been a popular tourist destination ever since it opened.
The Jefferson Memorial is a fitting tribute to one of the most important figures in American history. The memorial's design is both beautiful and inspiring, and it is a reminder of the ideals upon which the United States was founded.
4. Reverse
The reverse (tails) of the 1968 D Nickel features Monticello, the plantation home of Thomas Jefferson, the third President of the United States. Monticello is located near Charlottesville, Virginia, and was designed by Jefferson himself. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States.
The connection between Monticello and the 1968 D Nickel is significant. Monticello was Jefferson's home for over 50 years, and it is where he wrote the Declaration of Independence and the Statute of Virginia for Religious Freedom. Monticello is also where Jefferson died in 1826. The inclusion of Monticello on the reverse of the 1968 D Nickel is a tribute to Jefferson and his many accomplishments.
The 1968 D Nickel is a reminder of the importance of Monticello in American history. Monticello is a symbol of Jefferson's ideals and his commitment to democracy and religious freedom. The coin is also a reminder of the importance of preserving our nation's heritage. Monticello is a reminder of the many sacrifices that have been made to ensure that our country remains a beacon of hope and freedom for people around the world.
5. Mint
The 1968 D Nickel was minted in Denver, Colorado. The Denver Mint is one of the two mints that produce coins for the United States Mint, the other being the Philadelphia Mint. The Denver Mint was established in 1906 to help meet the growing demand for coins in the western United States. The Denver Mint has produced billions of coins over the years, including the 1968 D Nickel.
The 1968 D Nickel is a common coin, but it is still important to collectors. The Denver Mint mark on the coin indicates that it was minted in Denver, which makes it a desirable coin for collectors who specialize in coins from the Denver Mint. The 1968 D Nickel is also a popular coin for collectors who are interested in coins that were minted during the Vietnam War.
The Denver Mint is an important part of the history of the United States Mint. The Denver Mint has produced billions of coins over the years, and it continues to produce coins today. The 1968 D Nickel is just one of the many coins that have been produced by the Denver Mint, and it is a coin that is still popular with collectors today.
6. Year
The year 1968 was a significant year in American history. It was a year of great social and political change, and it was also a year of great turmoil. The Vietnam War was raging, and the civil rights movement was gaining momentum. In the midst of all of this change, the 1968 D Nickel was minted.
The 1968 D Nickel is a five-cent piece struck by the United States Mint in Denver, Colorado in 1968. It is composed of 75% copper and 25% nickel and weighs 5 grams. The obverse (heads) of the coin features the Jefferson Memorial, while the reverse (tails) depicts the Monticello. The 1968 D Nickel is a common coin and is worth face value, although some varieties may be worth more to collectors.
The connection between the year 1968 and the 1968 D Nickel is significant. The coin was minted during a time of great change in the United States, and it reflects the country's focus on its history and heritage during this time. The coin's design, which features the Jefferson Memorial and Monticello, is a reminder of the ideals upon which the United States was founded.
7. Value
The 1968 D Nickel has a value of 5 cents. This is the same value as all other nickels that have been minted since 1866. The value of a nickel is determined by the amount of metal that it contains. A nickel contains 5 cents worth of nickel and copper. The value of a nickel can also be affected by its rarity. Some nickels are more rare than others, and these nickels can be worth more than their face value to collectors.
The value of a nickel may seem small, but nickels can be very useful. Nickels can be used to purchase small items, such as candy, gum, or a newspaper. Nickels can also be used to make change for larger purchases. Nickels are also often used in vending machines.
The 1968 D Nickel is a common coin, but it is still important to collectors. The Denver Mint mark on the coin indicates that it was minted in Denver, which makes it a desirable coin for collectors who specialize in coins from the Denver Mint. The 1968 D Nickel is also a popular coin for collectors who are interested in coins that were minted during the Vietnam War.
FAQs on 1968 D Nickel
This section addresses common questions and misconceptions about 1968 D Nickel.
Question 1: What is the composition of a 1968 D Nickel?
The 1968 D Nickel is made of 75% copper and 25% nickel.
Question 2: What is the weight of a 1968 D Nickel?
The 1968 D Nickel weighs 5 grams.
Question 3: Where was the 1968 D Nickel minted?
The 1968 D Nickel was minted at the Denver Mint in Denver, Colorado.
Question 4: What is the value of a 1968 D Nickel?
The 1968 D Nickel has a value of 5 cents. However, some varieties may be worth more to collectors.
Question 5: Why is the 1968 D Nickel significant?
The 1968 D Nickel is significant because it was minted during a time of great change in the United States, and its design reflects the country's focus on its history and heritage during this time.
Summary: The 1968 D Nickel is a common coin with a value of 5 cents. It is made of 75% copper and 25% nickel and weighs 5 grams. The 1968 D Nickel was minted at the Denver Mint in Denver, Colorado. Despite its commonality, the 1968 D Nickel holds significance due to its historical context and design.
Transition: In the next section, we will explore the history and design of the 1968 D Nickel in greater detail.
Conclusion
The 1968 D Nickel is a common coin with a rich history and timeless design. Minted during a period of great social and political change, it serves as a reminder of the nation's enduring ideals and commitment to progress. Its composition, weight, and imagery all contribute to its significance, making it a valuable addition to any collection.
The 1968 D Nickel stands as a testament to the craftsmanship and artistry of the United States Mint. Its enduring popularity among collectors is a testament to its enduring appeal. As we continue to navigate the complexities of the modern world, the 1968 D Nickel reminds us of the importance of reflecting on our past and the values that have shaped our nation.
