WAR TIME NICKELS 1942-1945
Last of the United States Silver Nickels
Nickels from 1942 to 1945 are darker due to a change in their composition. During World War II, nickel was a critical material needed for military purposes, so the U.S. Mint altered the nickel's composition to conserve nickel.
From 1942 to 1945, the five-cent coins were made primarily of silver (56% silver, 35% copper, and 9% manganese) instead of the usual 75% nickel and 25% copper. This change not only affected the coin's color, giving it a darker appearance due to the presence of silver and manganese, but it also created a distinct look that differentiates these nickels from their pre- and post-war counterparts.
Additionally, the silver content can cause tarnishing, which may further contribute to the darker appearance of these coins over time.
**Understanding Coin Dates: Full Date, Partial Date, and No Date**
When examining coins, it's important to understand the significance of their dates, as they can greatly affect a coin's value and historical context. Here’s a breakdown of the different types of dates you may encounter:
1. **Full Date**: A coin is considered to have a full date when all digits of the year are clearly visible and legible. For example, if a coin shows "1923," it is a full date coin. Full dates are often more desirable to collectors because they can provide specific information about the coin's minting and historical significance.
2. **Partial Date**: A partial date occurs when some, but not all, of the digits of the year are visible. For instance, if a coin shows "19--" or "23" where the first two digits are worn away, it's classified as a partial date. While these coins can still hold value, their appeal to collectors may be less than that of full date coins since they don't provide complete information about the year of minting.
3. **No Date**: A coin with no date has either completely worn away or never had a date stamped on it. This can happen due to heavy circulation or specific minting practices. No date coins can still be of interest to collectors, particularly if they have other unique features or historical significance, but they generally carry less value compared to their dated counterparts.
Understanding these distinctions can enhance your appreciation of coins and help you communicate their value more effectively to others.