United States War Nickel, Jefferson Nickel (Silver Composition)
Coin / Numismatic / Bullion · United States Mint (Philadelphia, Denver, or San Francisco)
Pattern: Jefferson Nickel designed by Felix Schlag, War-time silver alloy
Type
Coin / Numismatic / Bullion
Maker
United States Mint (Philadelphia, Denver, or San Francisco)
Material
35% Silver, 56% Copper, 9% Manganese specifically for years 1942-1945
Dimensions
Diameter: 21.2mm; Standard weight: 5.0 grams; Silver content: approximately 0.0563 troy oz
Description
A silver-alloy variant of the standard Jefferson nickel, created to conserve nickel for the war effort, featuring Monticello on the reverse and a prominent mint mark.
Key Features
Large mint mark above the dome of Monticello; slightly darker, yellowish-grey patina compared to standard cupro-nickel versions.
Material & Composition
35% Silver, 56% Copper, 9% Manganese specifically for years 1942-1945
Finish & Decoration
Business strike finish with relief engraving of Thomas Jefferson's home, Monticello
Hallmarks & Stamps
Large mint mark (P, D, or S) located above the dome of Monticello on the reverse
Construction Details
Machine-struck via high-pressure coinage presses; die-struck planchet
Functional Features
Legal tender currency for the United States with a face value of Five Cents
Handle & Grip Details
Replaced by a jurisdictional flat rim for stacking and use in mechanical vending machines
Craftsmanship Details
Industrial-scale precision striking; evidence of die wear is common in this specific alloy which was harder on the minting equipment.
Authentication Indicators
The presence of a large mint mark above the Monticello dome is the primary indicator of the silver 'War Nickel' composition.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States of America; Philadelphia (P mark), Denver (D), or San Francisco (S)
Era & Period
World War II (1940-1945), specifically the war-time production window
Age Estimate
Produced between mid-1942 and 1945 based on the reverse design and silver alloy indicators
Cultural Significance
A tangible artifact of the American at-home war effort, representing the drastic measures taken to conserve strategic materials like nickel for armor and weaponry.
Condition Notes
Circulated condition; showing surface scratches, bag marks, and moderate tarnish/oxidation; Grade: Very Good to Fine.
Value Estimate
$1.50 to $5.00 depending on silver spot price and numismatic condition; uncirculated specimens fetch significantly higher premiums.
Care & Maintenance
Collectors are advised never to clean or polish coins as it destroys numismatic value; store in PVC-free flips or capsules.
Similar Pieces
Standard cupro-nickel Jefferson nickels (1938-1942 and 1946-current) which contain no silver and have smaller or no mint marks next to the building.
Interesting Facts
The 'P' mint mark on these nickels was the first time a Philadelphia mint mark appeared on any US coin.