This resulted in a new metal mixture, often referred to as the “wartime nickel” alloy. It is 56% copper, 35% silver, and 9% manganese. There were around 90 million silver 1942 Jefferson five-cent coins made, including: 1942-P, 57,873,000 minted; $3. 1942-P proof, 27,600; $300.
How can you tell what year a nickel was struck?
It is easy to determine what year nickels are Silver by looking for a few simple markers. Previously the absence of any mintmark indicated the coin was struck in Philadelphia. If you look at the reverse of a Silver Nickel there will be a large “P,” “D,” or “S” visible above Monticello, Jefferson’s home.
