1943 Jefferson Nickel (War Nickel)
This is a United States 5-cent coin, known as a Jefferson Nickel, specifically a 'War Nickel' from the year 1943. Unlike standard nickels of the era, this composition consists of 35% silver, 56% copper, and 9% manganese, a change necessitated by the demand for nickel during World War II. The obverse features the left-facing profile of Thomas Jefferson characterized by soft, worn details in the hair and facial features. The inscriptions 'IN GOD WE TRUST' and 'LIBERTY 1943' are visible, though the rim shows signs of flattening and circulation wear. The coin displays a dull, grayish-silver patina typical of circulated silver-manganese alloy, with minor surface scratches and localized dark oxidation spots near the edges. The reverse is not fully visible, but it would feature Monticello and a large mint mark (P, D, or S) above the dome, which is the primary identifying mark of the war-time silver issues. The overall condition appears to be in the 'Very Good' to 'Fine' range on the Sheldon scale, showing significant honest wear but retaining all major design elements and legibility. The craftsmanship represents mid-20th-century US Mint production, utilizing the original 1938 design by Felix Schlag.
AI-Generated Appraisal Disclaimer
Estimated Value
$1.75 - $2.50
Basic Information
Category
Numismatics / US Coins
Appraised On
March 11, 2026
Estimated Value
$1.75 - $2.50
Item Description
This is a United States 5-cent coin, known as a Jefferson Nickel, specifically a 'War Nickel' from the year 1943. Unlike standard nickels of the era, this composition consists of 35% silver, 56% copper, and 9% manganese, a change necessitated by the demand for nickel during World War II. The obverse features the left-facing profile of Thomas Jefferson characterized by soft, worn details in the hair and facial features. The inscriptions 'IN GOD WE TRUST' and 'LIBERTY 1943' are visible, though the rim shows signs of flattening and circulation wear. The coin displays a dull, grayish-silver patina typical of circulated silver-manganese alloy, with minor surface scratches and localized dark oxidation spots near the edges. The reverse is not fully visible, but it would feature Monticello and a large mint mark (P, D, or S) above the dome, which is the primary identifying mark of the war-time silver issues. The overall condition appears to be in the 'Very Good' to 'Fine' range on the Sheldon scale, showing significant honest wear but retaining all major design elements and legibility. The craftsmanship represents mid-20th-century US Mint production, utilizing the original 1938 design by Felix Schlag.
Related Tags
Get Your Items Appraised
Instant estimates of your treasures with AI-powered instant appraisals