1942-P Silver Wartime Jefferson Nickel BU

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During a period of global upheaval, the composition of the United States five cent piece underwent a temporary transformation. This 1942 issue from the Philadelphia Mint represents the beginning of the wartime nickel era, when the traditional alloy was altered to include 35 percent silver. Containing 0.0562 troy ounces of precious metal, these coins are easily identified by a prominent feature never before used on United States coinage: a large mint mark positioned directly above the dome of Monticello on the reverse. The obverse of this brilliant uncirculated coin features a sharp portrait of Thomas Jefferson looking left, accompanied by the familiar inscriptions of trust and liberty. On the reverse, the design showcases Jefferson's historic Virginia estate, Monticello. The Philadelphia issue is distinguished by the bold letter P placed above the building, flanked by the traditional mottos of unity and the nation's name. This particular specimen survives in an uncirculated state, preserving the crisp details of Felix O. Schlag's classic mid-century design just as it appeared when it left the minting press.