Rare War Nickels: War nickels, minted between 1942 and 1945, are a fascinating chapter in American coinage. Produced during World War II, these nickels were made with a special composition that included silver, as nickel was needed for the war effort. While most war nickels are worth only a modest premium over face value, certain rare varieties and errors have become highly valuable. Some of these coins are still found in circulation, making them exciting discoveries for collectors.
Historical Background
The U.S. Mint altered the composition of nickels during the war years, replacing the usual copper-nickel alloy with a blend of copper, silver, and manganese. This change created coins that looked similar to regular nickels but carried intrinsic silver value. To distinguish them, the Mint added large mint marks above Monticello on the reverse, including the first use of the “P” mint mark for Philadelphia.
Top 3 Rare War Nickels
1942-P Over Horizontal D
One of the most famous war nickel varieties is the 1942-P over horizontal D. This error occurred when a Denver mint mark was mistakenly punched horizontally before being corrected with a Philadelphia mint mark. The overlapping marks make this coin highly collectible, with values reaching thousands in high grades.
1943-P Double Die Obverse
The 1943-P double die obverse is another prized rarity. On this coin, doubling can be seen in the date and lettering, making it instantly recognizable to collectors. Well-preserved examples are scarce and can command significant premiums, often exceeding several thousand dollars.
1945-P Double Die Reverse
The 1945-P double die reverse is a dramatic error where doubling appears on the words “United States of America” and “E Pluribus Unum.” This variety is rare and highly sought after, with values climbing into the thousands depending on condition.
Why These Coins Are Valuable
The value of rare war nickels comes from a combination of factors: historical significance, scarcity, and collector demand. Error coins are especially prized because they represent mistakes that should not exist. Since most errors were caught during production, surviving examples are rare and valuable.
Tips for Collectors
- Check pocket change and coin rolls carefully, as war nickels still appear in circulation.
- Learn to identify mint marks above Monticello, which distinguish war nickels from regular issues.
- Inspect coins for doubling, misstrikes, or unusual features that may indicate rarity.
- Preserve coins in protective holders to maintain condition.
- Consider professional grading for coins that appear rare or pristine.
Conclusion
War nickels are more than just coins from a unique period in history. They are treasures that can still be discovered in everyday change. From the 1942-P over horizontal D to the dramatic double die varieties of 1943 and 1945, these rare finds are worth thousands and continue to inspire collectors. The thrill of uncovering one of these hidden gems proves that even small denominations can hold extraordinary value.