1942-1945 Silver War Nickel Value
Quick answer: Silver War Nickels, minted from 1942 to 1945, contain 35% silver. Their value is primarily driven by their silver content, typically ranging from $1 to $3 for circulated coins. Uncirculated examples or those with specific mint marks can be worth more.
The Silver War Nickels, produced between 1942 and 1945, are unique among US nickels because of their distinctive composition: 35% silver, 56% copper, and 9% manganese. This change was implemented during World War II to conserve nickel, a critical war material. The value of these coins is largely tied to their silver content, but factors like condition, mint mark, and specific varieties can significantly influence their numismatic worth.
Determining the value of your Silver War Nickel depends on several key factors. The coin's date and mint mark (located above Monticello on the reverse) are crucial, as some combinations are rarer. The condition, or grade, of the coin is paramount; uncirculated examples free of wear and damage command higher prices. Even subtle details like the sharpness of the strike or the presence of full steps on Monticello can impact value. Always examine both sides of your coin carefully.
Key dates worth serious money
1943-P Doubled Die Obverse
$75 – $500+
1942-D (Uncirculated)
$20 – $75
1945-S (Uncirculated)
$15 – $60
1944-S (Uncirculated)
$15 – $50
The story behind the coin
The United States entered World War II in December 1941, and the war effort quickly placed immense demands on industrial resources. Nickel, a key component in armor plating and other military applications, became a strategic metal. To conserve this vital resource, the US Mint was directed to find an alternative composition for the five-cent coin. After experimenting with various alloys, a composition of 35% silver, 56% copper, and 9% manganese was approved.
This new 'War Nickel' composition was authorized by Congress on March 27, 1942, and production began in October of that year. To distinguish these silver-bearing coins from their cupronickel predecessors and facilitate their eventual recall and melting for silver recovery, a large mint mark (P, D, or S) was placed above the dome of Monticello on the reverse. This was the first time a 'P' mint mark was used on a US coin. Production of the silver nickels continued until the end of 1945, after which the original cupronickel composition was restored.
Frequently asked questions
How much silver is in a War Nickel?
Each Silver War Nickel (1942-1945) contains 0.05626 troy ounces of pure silver, which is 35% of its total weight.
How can I tell if my nickel is a silver War Nickel?
Look for a large mint mark (P, D, or S) located directly above the dome of Monticello on the reverse side of the coin. If it has this large mint mark, it's a silver War Nickel. Regular nickels from this period do not have a mint mark in this position (or a small 'D' or 'S' on the right side for pre-1942 issues).
Are all 1942 nickels silver?
No, only 1942 nickels with a large 'P' or 'S' mint mark above Monticello are silver. The first part of 1942 saw the production of standard cupronickel nickels, which have no mint mark or a small 'D' on the right side of the reverse.
What is the most valuable War Nickel?
The most valuable regular issue War Nickel is typically the 1943-P with the Doubled Die Obverse variety, which can be worth hundreds of dollars in higher grades. Other key dates and mint marks in uncirculated condition also command premium prices.
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Values shown are typical retail ranges for the grades described, based on recent dealer and auction pricing. Markets move; exact value depends on grade, variety and eye appeal. This guide is informational and not a formal appraisal.