US Silver War Nickels Value Guide

FULL ROLL OF 1952-P JEFFERSON NICKELS, GRADE GOOD. | eBay — US Silver War Nickels

Estimated Value

$12 – $18

Period: 1942-1945
Origin: United States
Materials: 35% Silver, Copper, Manganese
Category: Us silver coins

US Silver War Nickels are a unique wartime emergency issue minted from 1942 to 1945 to conserve nickel for military production. These coins are highly collectible because they represent the only time in history that the Jefferson Nickel contained 35% silver.

What Is US Silver War Nickels Worth?

The typical price range for US Silver War Nickels is $12 - $18 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

Current market spot price of silver, as these coins are often traded for their 0.05626 troy ounces of silver content.
The presence of 'Full Steps' on the base of Monticello, which significantly increases value for numismatic collectors.
Overall circulation wear, with uncirculated specimens fetching a premium over the standard $12-$18 set price.
The specific mint mark and year combination, with certain dates being more elusive in high grades.

How to Identify US Silver War Nickels?

Look for the large P, D, or S mint mark positioned directly above the dome of Monticello on the reverse side.
Check the date range specifically for 1942 through 1945, noting that only some 1942 nickels contain silver.
Observe the distinct greenish-grey or dark tarnish that often develops on the silver-manganese alloy compared to standard cupro-nickel coins.
Verify the composition of 35% silver, 56% copper, and 9% manganese which gives the coin a slightly different luster.

History of US Silver War Nickels

During World War II, nickel was a crucial strategic metal needed for the war effort. To conserve this resource, the US Mint temporarily changed the composition of the five-cent coin from 75% copper and 25% nickel to an alloy consisting of 35% silver, 56% copper, and 9% manganese. These 'War Nickels' were produced from late 1942 through 1945. To make sure they could be easily identified and removed after the war, a large mint mark (P, D, or S) was placed directly above Monticello on the reverse, a unique placement for the series.