1942 Nickel Appraisal

1942-S Jefferson Silver Nickel

This is a United States five-cent piece, commonly known as a War Nickel, minted in 1942 at the San Francisco Mint. Measuring 21.2mm in diameter with a weight of 5.0 grams, this specific coin is composed of 35% silver, 56% copper, and 9% manganese, a metallurgical change necessitated by the need for nickel in WWII military production. The reverse shown displays Thomas Jefferson’s home, Monticello, in the center. A prominent distinguishing feature is the large 'S' mint mark located above the dome of Monticello, the first time a large mint mark was used in this position on U.S. coinage to quickly identify the copper-silver-manganese alloy. The coin exhibits a dull, dark greyish patina characteristic of silver coins with high manganese content. The condition appears to be circulated, with visible wear on the high points of the building's facade, specifically the pillars and dome. The peripheral inscriptions 'E PLURIBUS UNUM', 'MONTICELLO', 'FIVE CENTS', and 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA' remain legible, though the edges show some softening. No significant gouges or environmental damage are immediately apparent, but the overall lack of 'Full Steps' on the building indicates significant handling and moderate wear from use in commerce.