Jefferson Silver War Nickels (1942-1945)
During World War II, the nation faced various metal shortages. This included the nickel used to produce the five cent coinage which was in demand for various elements of the war effort. The denomination remained the same in size and diameter, but the critical metal was replaced with silver. This created a short-lived variety within the series featuring coins struck with copper, silver and manganese. To denote the metal change, a large letter referencing the Mint of production was placed above the portrait of the Monticello. The type is desirable today by both nickel enthusiasts and silver buffs alike.
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