The 1943 Jefferson nickels have value as both numismatic coins and as silver bullion. Keep reading to learn more about these coins.
Specifications
Type: Jefferson Nickel
Year: 1943
Face Value: $0.05
Composition: 56% copper, 35% silver, 9% manganese
Silver Weight: .05626 oz.
Total Weight: 5 grams
Current Silver Bullion Value: $4.27
The US minted the 1943 P nickel, 1943 D nickel, and 1943 S nickel. These coins are also known as war nickels. The mint mark can be found on the reverse side of the coin above the Monticello image.
| Series |
Location |
Quantity Minted |
| 1943 P |
Philadelphia |
271,165,000 |
| 1943 D |
Denver |
15,294,000 |
| 1943 S |
San Francisco |
104,060,000 |
Value
This coin in circulated condition is worth at least its weight in silver. The silver melt value for this coin is $4.27. This melt value is calculated from the current silver spot price of $75.90 per ounce.
Most of these coins only sell for a premium above their silver melt value in uncirculated condition.
The 1943 P nickel is worth around $4.10 in uncirculated condition with an MS 60 grade. Uncirculated coins with a grade of MS 65 can sell for around $16.
The 1943 D nickel is worth around $4.10 in uncirculated condition with an MS 60 grade. Uncirculated coins with a grade of MS 65 can sell for around $16.
The 1943 S nickel is worth around $4.10 in uncirculated condition with an MS 60 grade. Uncirculated coins with a grade of MS 65 can sell for around $16.
Error Coins
There were two notable error coins for the 1943 P series. We will review them below.
3 Over 2 Error
On this coin the number 3 is minted over the number 2. The 1943 P nickel 3 over 2 error coin is worth around $110 in extremely fine condition. In uncirculated condition the price is around $325 for coins with an MS 60 grade. Uncirculated coins with a grade of MS 65 can sell for around $575.
Doubled Eye Error
On this coin it looks as if Jefferson has two left eyes. The 1943 P nickel doubled eye error coin is worth around $47 in extremely fine condition. In uncirculated condition the price is around $130 for coins with an MS 60 grade. Uncirculated coins with a grade of MS 65 can sell for around $360.
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Grading System
Extremely fine- Jefferson's eyebrow, cheekbone, and hair lines are well-defined but slightly worn.
MS 60 uncirculated- There are no signs of wear. The coin has luster, but there may be a few stains, abrasions, or surface marks.
MS 65 gem uncirculated- There is strong luster and eye appeal. A few light contact marks may be present but they are barely noticeable.
Sources:
The Red Book
See also:
1942 Nickel
1944 Nickel
1945 Nickel