Which Nickels Are Silver?

To many, nickels seem an unlikely target for collecting or investing—it’s just five cents, after all.

However, not all nickels are made the same way or even out of the same metals. During a unique period in U.S. history, the Mint released a series of nickels containing a significant amount of silver.

These “war nickels” hold particular appeal for collectors and investors. They offer value well beyond their face amount and are often quite affordable, making them an accessible entry point into silver coin collecting.

Let’s explore the history of these special five-cent pieces, how to identify them, and how you can add some to your collection.

The History Behind Silver Nickels

Silver was introduced into nickel production during World War II. The war effort required vast amounts of nickel for manufacturing military equipment, so Congress authorized the U.S. Mint to find alternative materials for the five-cent coin.

Nickels minted between 1942 to 1945 are silver and known as “silver war nickels”. These nickels have the following composition:

• 35% silver
• 56% copper
• 9% manganese

After the war ended in 1945, the military’s demand for nickel decreased significantly, and in 1946, the Mint returned to the traditional 25% nickel and 75% copper composition.

How to Identify Silver Nickels: Key Dates and Features

The silver nickel era lasted just over three years, with coins minted from 1942 to 1945 using this unique silver alloy. Identifying silver nickels from 1942 can be trickier, as the Mint had already produced some regular nickels before Congress mandated the change.

To make war nickels easily recognizable, the Mint altered the placement of the mint mark. Ordinarily, the mint mark appears on the obverse (front) of the coin, below President Jefferson’s ponytail. But for war nickels, the mint mark was enlarged and placed on the reverse, above Monticello.

Look for a P, D, or S mint mark on the back of the coin, representing Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco, respectively. This mark placement is unique to silver nickels, especially the 1942 variety, making identification straightforward for collectors.

Why Were Silver Nickels Made?

The substitution of nickel with silver during wartime was essential due to nickel’s strategic importance in military production. Once the war ended, and nickel supplies were no longer constrained, the Mint resumed its traditional nickel-copper composition.

The Value and Collectability of Silver Nickels

Today, war nickels have a two-fold appeal. The silver content alone makes these coins worth significantly more than their face value. At current market rates, the silver in a 35% war nickel is worth just under two dollars based on the current price of silver. Accumulate about 20 of these nickels, and you have slightly more than an ounce of silver.

The historic significance of these coins adds to their allure for collectors. Outside of this period, nickels have always been made with nickel, making silver nickels a unique artifact of Americana.

Certain uncirculated and proof versions can command premium prices, as can double die error coins from 1943 and 1945. Still, obtaining war nickels is relatively straightforward, and even collecting a complete set of the 11 varieties is achievable with some searching.

How to Buy or Sell Silver Nickels

Although rare in the broader context of nickel production, war nickels are not hard to find. Both online and in-person dealers usually carry them.

At JM Bullion, we offer a trusted and secure platform for purchasing war nickels. With years of experience and billions in trades, we ensure every transaction is handled professionally.

If you’re looking to sell, we can assist as well. Regardless, it’s essential to work with reputable dealers. Check for customer reviews or testimonials, and verify that the dealer has a history of ethical dealings.

Remember to consider both aspects of war nickel value: silver content and historical appeal. Get an appraisal if needed, and always stay informed of current silver prices.

Finally, compare prices across dealers. While every dealer charges a premium, reasonable markups are fair, whereas excessive ones are not.

Other articles of interest:

• How much is a silver dollar worth?
• Which half dollars are silver?
• What are the most valuable quarters?

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Silver Nickels

How much silver is in a war nickel?
1.75 grams. Each war nickel weighs 5 grams, with 35% silver content.

Why are some 1942 nickels silver and others not?
The changeover occurred mid-year, so early 1942 nickels contain 25% nickel and 75% copper, while later ones were made with silver.

Are silver nickels worth more than their face value?
Absolutely. The silver content alone makes a war nickel worth close to two dollars, and rare versions can be worth even more.

How can I tell if my nickel is silver?
Check the back for a mint mark (P, D, or S) above Monticello. This is unique to war nickels.

Are there other silver nickels?
No. Due to the unique demands of World War II, silver was only used in nickels during that period.

Did the Mint change any other coins during the war?
Yes. In 1943, the Mint produced steel pennies coated with zinc instead of the usual copper-tin mix. These “steel cents” are popular with collectors for their novelty and historical significance.

World War II not only redefined America’s global standing but also influenced its currency production. War nickels are a fascinating byproduct of that era.

If you’re interested in exploring silver coins or bullion beyond war nickels, JM Bullion is here to help.