Jefferson Nickel (War Nickel, 35% Silver) Melt Value
US · 1942–1945 · 5 cents
Live melt value (per coin)
$3.46
Snapshot: Oct 2026 · Updating…
Quick melt value calculator
Total melt value
$0.00
per coin: $0.00
Specifications
| Country | US |
| Years minted | 1942–1945 |
| Denomination | 5 cents (face value: $0.05) |
| Composition | 35% silver, 56% copper, 9% manganese |
| Gross weight | 5 g (0.1608 troy oz) |
| Diameter | 21.21 mm |
| Silver content | 0.0563 troy oz (1.7500 g) |
| Copper content | 0.006173 lb (2.80 g) |
| Source | US Mint specifications |
How to identify
Date 1942–1945; LARGE mint mark (P, D, or S) above Monticello on reverse; 1942-P is only nickel with P mark until 1979
Notes
56% Cu, 35% Ag, 9% Mn. Public Law 77-815 (1942) authorized silver alloy for wartime nickel conservation. Mn not tracked in metal field.
Frequently asked questions
How much silver is in a Jefferson Nickel (War Nickel, 35% Silver)?
A Jefferson Nickel (War Nickel, 35% Silver) contains 0.0563 troy oz (1.75g) of silver. Composition: 35% silver, 56% copper, 9% manganese.
What is the melt value of a Jefferson Nickel (War Nickel, 35% Silver)?
At snapshot prices (October 2026): $3.46 per coin. Composed of 35% silver, 56% copper, 9% manganese. Use the live calculator above for current prices.
Is the Jefferson Nickel (War Nickel, 35% Silver) worth more than melt value?
Many coins sell for more than melt — especially scarce dates, high grades, and coins with collector demand. Always check a current price guide (PCGS or NGC price guides) before melting or selling. Melt value is a floor, not a ceiling.
How do I identify a Jefferson Nickel (War Nickel, 35% Silver)?
Date 1942–1945; LARGE mint mark (P, D, or S) above Monticello on reverse; 1942-P is only nickel with P mark until 1979.