Yesterday as I took out some change to pay for my lunch, I noticed that one of my nickels didn’t have the usual Monticello design. This took me completely by surprise, as I knew about the 50 state quarters (with California being issued some time this year, woo!), but had no idea that the Mint was releasing new nickels.

It seems that they have decided to commemorate 100 years since the Lousiana Purchase and the Lewis and Clark expedition. The nickel in my possession was the Fall design depicting the “Keelboat”. What amazes me though is that I don’t think I’ve even seen the ones that have been out since last Spring (which, in my opinion, looks like they are encouraging you to get high and then chop of someone’s hand at the wrist).

There are 2 more nickels scheduled for release this year, which now feature a huge portrait of Jefferson. Not quite sure if that picture is here to stay, but I guess Monticello is returning in 2006.

Hmm, I can’t believe I just wrote an entire entry on nickels, but I was just a bit taken aback that my money didn’t look how I expected it and that I wasn’t aware of the change ahead of time. I’m a little slow I guess.

Posted at 12:04 PM |