1943 Jefferson Wartime Nickel Value Guide

The 1943 Jefferson Wartime Nickel is a unique piece of American history minted during World War II to conserve nickel for military production. These coins are highly collectible because they represent the first time the Philadelphia Mint used a 'P' mint mark and feature a distinct 35% silver composition.

What affects the value of 1943 Jefferson Wartime Nickel?

• The current spot price of silver significantly impacts the base bullion value of the 35% silver content.
• The presence of 'Full Steps' on the base of Monticello can drastically increase the value for numismatic collectors.
• Condition and grade, specifically the lack of circulation wear and original mint luster, drive prices toward the higher end of the $1-$3 range.
• The specific mint mark, with Philadelphia (P), Denver (D), and San Francisco (S) having varying mintage totals.

How to Identify 1943 Jefferson Wartime Nickel?

• Look for a large mint mark (P, D, or S) located directly above the dome of Monticello on the reverse side.
• Check for a darker, greasy-looking patina which is characteristic of the 9% manganese and 35% silver alloy.
• Verify the date is 1943, as this year exclusively used the silver-copper-manganese composition.
• Listen for a distinct high-pitched ring when compared to the duller thud of a standard copper-nickel coin.

History of 1943 Jefferson Wartime Nickel

During World War II, nickel was a critical war material. To conserve it, the composition of the five-cent coin was changed from its traditional copper-nickel alloy to an alloy of 35% silver, 56% copper, and 9% manganese. These 'Wartime Nickels' were produced from 1942 to 1945 and are distinguishable by a large mint mark (P, D, or S) above the dome of Monticello on the reverse side. This particular coin, dated 1943, would have been minted in Philadelphia, indicated by the 'P' mint mark.