D Mint Mark Nickel Appraisal

1969-D Jefferson Nickel

This item is a United States five-cent piece, commonly known as a Jefferson Nickel, minted in 1969. The coin features the left-facing profile of Thomas Jefferson on the obverse. Traditionally composed of 75% copper and 25% nickel, this specific specimen exhibits a deep, dark brown coloration typically associated with environmental toning, oxidation, or improper storage, which has obscured the natural silvery luster of the Cupro-Nickel alloy. The obverse displays the inscriptions 'IN GOD WE TRUST' on the left rim and 'LIBERTY' followed by the year '1969' on the right. A 'D' mint mark is visible below the date, indicating it was struck at the Denver Mint. The coin shows moderate circulation wear, with softening of the hair detail and a thinning rim. There are visible surface abrasions, small nicks, and a granular texture throughout the fields. This coin is a high-volume circulation strike from the late 1960s. The distinctive dark patina may be the result of being buried (ground find) or exposed to harsh environments, which significantly impacts the surface preservation. No major striking errors are immediately apparent, though the heavy toning makes fine details difficult to discern without magnification.