Silver Nickels

We are seeing more and more nickels advertised as "silver". Prior to purchasing a "silver nickel" it is best to clarify the specific item for which you are bidding.

Most nickels are composed of  75% copper, 25% nickel.

"Silver nickels" (35% silver, 56% copper, 9% manganese) were only minted from October 8, 1942 to 1945. 

In 1942, the mint issued two compositions:
1. 75% copper, 25% nickel - 1942, with a small "D" or "S" mint mark to the right of Monticello on the reverse or in the case of Philadelphia minted coins, no mint mark
2. 35% silver, 56% copper, 9% manganese - Coins from all three mints bore very large mintmarks above the dome of Monticello

Unfortunately, we are seeing ebayers advertising "silver war nickels" with dates starting as early as 1939