35% Silver War Nickels $2 Face Value AU

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During a critical period in the mid twentieth century, the composition of the United States five-cent piece underwent a temporary transformation. This era produced what are widely known as war nickels, struck with a unique alloy containing 35 percent silver. These pieces carry a total of 2.25 troy ounces of silver across a two-dollar face value group, representing a fascinating moment of adaptation in coinage history. The obverse of this coin presents a classic profile portrait of Thomas Jefferson, facing left, accompanied by the word LIBERTY and the date. On the reverse, viewers can observe a detailed depiction of Monticello, Jefferson's historic Virginia estate. This side also displays the traditional mottoes and the denomination. A highly distinctive feature of these wartime issues is the placement and size of the mint mark. Located on the reverse side, a prominent, large letter is positioned directly above the dome of Monticello. This placement was a deliberate departure from standard nickel designs, making these silver-alloy coins immediately recognizable. These particular specimens survive in Almost Uncirculated condition, preserving the fine details of Felix O. Schlag's celebrated design.