A nickel is a five-cent coin in the United States, made primarily of copper and nickel. It features the profile of Thomas Jefferson, the third President of the United States, on the front, and the Monticello, his Virginia home, on the back. Nickels are commonly used in everyday transactions and are an essential part of U.S. currency. The nickel was first introduced in 1866 and has undergone several design changes over the years. It is slightly larger than a dime but smaller than a quarter. Nickels are also used in vending machines and for making change in various retail settings.