2012P-5DER-010T Trail Die Reverse

Description

Found by Jim Kames, this 2012-P Jefferson Nickel exhibits trail die characteristics on the reverse of Felix Schlag's Monticello design. Trail die varieties result from incomplete or offset hubbing, where faint linear traces from design elements remain on the die face rather than producing the broader displacement seen in doubled dies. Both sides of this die pair had reached Mid Die State when the documented specimen was struck, though no specific die markers were noted on either side — an uncommon situation placing greater attribution weight on the trail lines themselves. The absence of noted markers means collectors must rely primarily on the trail line pattern to confirm the correct die, making careful comparison against reference images essential. Philadelphia struck hundreds of millions of Jefferson Nickels in 2012, and the tenth cataloged trail die reverse for the date indicates that trail die research on modern nickels has reached meaningful depth. Schlag's Monticello reverse, with its columned facade and dome, provides architectural detail where trail lines manifest as faint parallel traces alongside structural elements.

Die Markers

• Obverse is MDS – none noted.
• Reverse is MDS – none noted.

Attribution History

• Discovered by Jim Kames
• Expert attribution by Trail Dies

External References