The US 1978 Nickel coin, designed by Felix Schlag, continued the tradition of featuring Thomas Jeffersons portrait. Politically, 1978 marked a time of economic challenges with inflation and the ongoing aftermath of the Vietnam War. The 1978 Nickel’s design, emphasizing Jefferson’s legacy, symbolized American ideals of democracy and independence during a period of economic and political adjustment.
The 1978 Nickels composition of copper and nickel reflected the U.S. move away from using silver in everyday coins. Schlags design on the 1978 Nickel connected the nation to its historical roots while using more cost-effective materials due to rising metal prices, symbolizing practical economic responses.