What Year Did They Stop Making Silver Nickels?
Uncover the story of silver U.S. nickels: why they were made, how to spot them, and the specific year their unique wartime production concluded.
During a unique period in U.S. coinage history, nickels were temporarily produced with a different metal composition. This change stemmed from specific wartime needs, creating a distinctive coin. Understanding these five-cent pieces provides insight into the nation’s resourcefulness during a time of global conflict.
The Wartime Nickel Experiment
The production of silver nickels began in 1942, a direct response to the United States’ entry into World War II. Nickel, a metal typically used in coin production, became a highly strategic material for the war effort. It was diverted for military equipment like armor plating, artillery, tanks, and aircraft.
To conserve this metal, the U.S. Mint altered the nickel’s composition. The new wartime alloy consisted of 35% silver, 56% copper, and 9% manganese. This blend allowed the government to continue minting five-cent coins without depleting nickel reserves needed for military manufacturing.
Identifying Silver Nickels
All nickels produced with the silver composition were minted between 1942 and 1945. The most reliable identification marker is a large mint mark located directly above Monticello on the coin’s reverse side.
This distinct mint mark will be a “P” for Philadelphia, “D” for Denver, or an “S” for San Francisco. This was the first time a “P” mint mark appeared on U.S. coinage. While their color might appear similar to standard copper-nickel nickels, the presence of this large mint mark above Monticello confirms it is a silver wartime issue.
The End of Silver Nickel Production
The production of silver nickels ceased in 1945. The change coincided with the conclusion of World War II, which reduced the intense demand for nickel.
With the war over, the U.S. Mint returned to the traditional coin composition. Beginning in 1946, nickels once again consisted of 75% copper and 25% nickel.
Understanding Their Value
The value of these wartime nickels primarily stems from their silver content. Each silver nickel contains approximately 0.05626 troy ounces of silver, making them worth more than their five-cent face value. Their monetary worth fluctuates with the current market price of silver.
Beyond their intrinsic metal value, silver nickels also hold collectibility. Factors such as the coin’s condition, the specific mint mark, and overall rarity can significantly increase their appeal and value to collectors. Uncirculated examples or those with desirable features often command higher prices.