The 1943 Jefferson nickels have value as both numismatic coins and as silver bullion. Keep reading to learn more about these coins.

1943 nickel

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: $1.74

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 $1.74. This melt value is calculated from the current silver spot price of $30.93 per ounce.

The 1943 P nickel is worth around $3 in very fine condition. In extremely fine condition the value is around $3.50. In uncirculated condition the price is around $6 for coins with an MS 60 grade. Uncirculated coins with a grade of MS 65 can sell for around $20.

The 1943 D nickel is worth around $3 in very fine condition. In extremely fine condition the value is around $4. In uncirculated condition the price is around $7 for coins with an MS 60 grade. Uncirculated coins with a grade of MS 65 can sell for around $20.

The 1943 S nickel is worth around $3 in very fine condition. In extremely fine condition the value is around $3.50. In uncirculated condition the price is around $6 for coins with an MS 60 grade. Uncirculated coins with a grade of MS 65 can sell for around $20.

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 $55 in very fine condition. In extremely fine condition the value is around $100. In uncirculated condition the price is around $300 for coins with an MS 60 grade. Uncirculated coins with a grade of MS 65 can sell for around $650.

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 $30 in very fine condition. In extremely fine condition the value is around $50. 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 $550.

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Grading System

Very fine- The second pillar from the right on the Monticello building is plain and complete on both sides.

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