In 1938, 25 years after the Buffalo nickel's introduction, the US Mint could change its design without Congress.
Inspired by a bust at the Boston Museum of Fine Arts, Schlag incorporated Monticello, Jefferson's home, on the reverse.
The original reverse, depicting Monticello at an angle, faced disapproval from the commission.
Schlag modified the design, altering inscriptions and showing Monticello from the front.
The Jefferson nickel's appearance remained largely unchanged, except for compositional alterations during WWII.
During WWII, a nickel blend of 50% copper and 50% silver was approved due to nickel shortages for the war industry.