The 1974 Denver 5-cent nickel is a part of the Jefferson nickel series, which has been minted since 1938. Coins from this series are made of a copper-nickel alloy and feature Thomas Jefferson's portrait on the obverse and Monticello on the reverse. Collectors often look for specific mint marks, with the Denver mint mark (D) signifying coins minted in Denver, Colorado. The 1974 nickel is not typically considered rare but can still be sought after by collectors, especially in well-preserved condition. Rolls of nickels may contain multiple examples of this date and mint mark, contributing to their appeal among numismatists.