Copper-nickel coin, 1982-P Jefferson Nickel with Repunched Mint Mark (RPM), United States Mint

The Jefferson Nickel was first introduced in 1938, replacing the Buffalo Nickel, and features President Thomas Jefferson on the obverse and his estate Monticello on the reverse. The 1982-P issue was minted at the Philadelphia Mint, indicated by the 'P' mint mark visible on the obverse. This marked a significant change, as 1980 was the first year the Philadelphia Mint added a 'P' mint mark to nickels, breaking with the tradition of no mint mark for Philadelphia coins. A Repunched Mint Mark (RPM) occurs when the mint mark punch is applied more than once in slightly different positions, creating a doubled or shadowed appearance. This variety is considered a minor mint error that adds numismatic interest to the coin. Jefferson Nickels with mint errors like repunched mint marks are highly sought after by error coin collectors and variety specialists. These coins appeal to numismatists who focus on die varieties, mint errors, and production anomalies. While common-date circulated examples are widely available, RPM varieties command premium prices among collectors who appreciate the technical aspects of coin production and seek to complete comprehensive variety sets. The 1982-P RPM is particularly interesting to collectors of modern mint errors and Jefferson Nickel specialists.