What Year are War Nickels?
War nickels are a series of 35-millimeter diameter nickels minted by the United States Mint from 1942 to 1945. These coins were specially designed to help the war effort during World War II. The War Nickels were made with a composition of 75% copper and 25% silver, which was a departure from the traditional copper-nickel composition of the standard nickel coin.
What Caused the Change in Composition?
The War Nickels were minted to conserve copper, a crucial material in the production of military equipment and other war-related supplies. By using silver instead of copper, the United States Mint was able to conserve this valuable resource and redirect it to more critical applications. This change in composition was authorized by the Coinage Act of 1942, which allowed the mint to use silver in the production of nickels and other coins.
Features of War Nickels
War Nickels are easily identifiable due to their distinctive design and composition. Here are some key features to look for:
- Silver Composition: War Nickels are made with a 75% silver and 25% copper composition, which is different from the traditional copper-nickel composition of standard nickels.
- Thomas Rogers Kimball Design: The obverse (front) side of the War Nickels features a portrait of Thomas Rogers Kimball, the President of the Commission of Fine Arts.
- Felic Nemenyi Design: The reverse (back) side of the War Nickels features a design by Felic Nemenyi, which depicts a torch, oak branch, and olive branch.
- No Magnetic Properties: War Nickels are non-magnetic, unlike standard nickels, which are made with a copper-nickel composition that is magnetic.
Rarity and Value
War Nickels are relatively rare and highly sought after by collectors. Here are some key facts about the rarity and value of War Nickels:
- Rarity: War Nickels are relatively rare, with an estimated mintage of 1.3 billion coins.
- Value: The value of War Nickels can vary depending on their condition, rarity, and demand. In general, War Nickels in good condition can be worth around $0.05 to $0.10 each.
- Key Dates: Some War Nickels are more valuable than others due to their rarity and condition. Key dates include the 1942-1945 War Nickels, which are more valuable than other dates.
Table of War Nickels Mintage
Here is a table showing the mintage of War Nickels by year:
| Year | Mintage |
|---|---|
| 1942 | 656,442,000 |
| 1943 | 652,043,000 |
| 1944 | 635,102,000 |
| 1945 | 615,555,000 |
Conclusion
War Nickels are a unique and valuable series of coins that were minted during World War II. With their distinctive design and composition, War Nickels are highly sought after by collectors and can be a valuable addition to any coin collection. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting out, War Nickels are a great way to learn about the history of coinage and the impact of war on the economy.
