The US 1979 Nickel coin, designed by Felix Schlag, features a portrait of Thomas Jefferson and is part of the ongoing series since 1938. The coin was minted during a period of economic recovery after the 1970s inflation crisis. The 1979 Nickel, struck in 75% copper and 25% nickel, continued the tradition of using these metals for durable, cost-effective coinage.
In 1979, the U.S. faced economic challenges, including inflation and the energy crisis. The 1979 Nickel played an important role in maintaining the country’s currency system while the design of Jefferson represented the nation’s ongoing ideals of democracy and stability during turbulent economic times.