Don’t Overlook This 1943 Nickel: If you’re lucky enough to stumble upon a 1943/2-P Jefferson War Nickel in your coin collection or pocket change, don’t spend it too quickly—it could be worth thousands, or in rare cases, over $200,000. This unassuming nickel stands out in the world of U.S. coinage due to a unique minting error and its wartime composition, making it highly valuable to collectors.
Whether you’re a seasoned numismatist or just curious about your spare change, this article will walk you through everything you need to know about this fascinating coin, including its history, identifying features, value guide, and how to sell it safely.
Don’t Overlook This 1943 Nickel
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Coin Name | 1943/2-P Jefferson War Nickel |
| Minting Error | Overdate Error: “3” punched over “2” |
| Composition | 56% copper, 35% silver, 9% manganese |
| Mint Mark | Large “P” above Monticello (Philadelphia Mint) |
| Circulated Value | $35–$200 |
| Uncirculated Value | $250–$850 |
| High-Grade Sales | Up to $16,675 for MS67 Full Steps; over $200,000 rumored for top specimens |
| Where to Sell | Reputable dealers, PCGS/NGC-certified auctions, Heritage Auctions, eBay |
| Official Resource | PCGS: CoinFacts – 1943/2-P Nickel |
The 1943/2-P Jefferson War Nickel isn’t just pocket change—it’s a piece of American history and potentially a five- or six-figure asset. With its rare overdate error, wartime composition, and historical significance, this coin continues to captivate collectors and investors alike.
What Makes the 1943/2-P Nickel So Special?
A Wartime Coin with a Minting Mistake
During World War II, the U.S. Mint changed the composition of the nickel to save nickel metal for military use. These coins were made of a copper-silver-manganese alloy, and they featured a large mint mark above Monticello—a first for U.S. nickels.
The 1943/2-P nickel features an overdate error, where the die originally engraved for 1942 was reused and re-engraved with “1943.” As a result, you can see the faint outline of a “2” under the “3”—a mistake that collectors adore.
Don’t Overlook This 1943 Nickel: How Rare Is the 1943/2-P Nickel?
The 1943/2-P is a key variety in the Jefferson Nickel series, and though many war nickels are common, this overdate error is not. Fewer than 1,000 examples are known to exist in high grades, and Full Steps varieties (indicating sharp strike detail on the steps of Monticello) are especially rare.
In fact, according to the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS), only a handful of coins in MS67 or higher with Full Steps have ever been graded, and prices have soared accordingly.
How Much Is a 1943/2-P Nickel Worth?
The value depends on condition, strike, and certification. Here’s a breakdown based on recent auctions and PCGS pricing:
Circulated Coins
- Heavily circulated coins may bring $35 to $200.
- These show wear but are still valuable due to the overdate error.
Uncirculated (Mint State) Coins
- MS60 to MS65: $250–$850
- MS67: $1,300 to $1,600
Full Steps Designation
- Full Steps coins are more sharply struck and command premiums:
- MS67 Full Steps: Sold for $16,675 in 2008
- MS68 Full Steps: Could fetch over $25,000+ today
Top-End Specimens
- A few examples have sold for up to $20,000 at auction.
- A rumored private sale exceeded $200,000, though unverified.
Don’t Overlook This 1943 Nickel: How to Identify a 1943/2-P Jefferson War Nickel?
Spotting one requires a careful look, sometimes with a magnifying glass or digital microscope.
Obverse (Front):
- Look at the date “1943” under Jefferson’s portrait.
- A faint “2” under the “3” will be visible if it’s the overdate variety.
Reverse (Back):
- Mint Mark “P” located above Monticello indicates it was minted in Philadelphia.
- Inspect the steps on Monticello—if they are fully struck and unbroken, it could qualify for a Full Steps designation.
What Should You Do If You Find One?
Think you’ve found a winner? Here’s what to do:
Step 1: Don’t Clean the Coin
Cleaning can destroy the value. Leave it as is.
Step 2: Authenticate and Grade
Submit it to a reputable grading service:
- PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service): www.pcgs.com
- NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Corporation): www.ngccoin.com
Grading will confirm the variety and condition, which determines market value.
Step 3: Appraisal
Consult with:
- Professional Numismatists Guild members: www.pngdealers.org
- Local or online coin dealers with strong reviews
Step 4: Sell or Hold?
If you’re ready to sell:
- Auction Houses: Heritage Auctions, Stack’s Bowers
- Online Platforms: eBay (look for “sold listings” for price guidance)
- Local Dealers: Can be quicker but may offer lower prices
If you’re a long-term investor or collector, you may choose to hold onto it as values rise.
FAQs About Don’t Overlook This 1943 Nickel
Q1: What does “Full Steps” mean in coin grading?
“Full Steps” refers to coins that show complete, uninterrupted steps on Monticello. It’s a sign of a sharply struck coin and significantly increases value.
Q2: How do I know if my nickel is silver?
All wartime nickels from 1942–1945 with a large mint mark above Monticello contain 35% silver. This includes the 1943/2-P nickel.
Q3: Can I sell an ungraded 1943/2-P nickel?
Yes, but graded coins sell for far more. Getting it certified by PCGS or NGC adds trust and boosts its selling price.
Q4: How many 1943/2-P nickels were minted?
There is no exact figure, as it’s a minting error, not an intentional release. Experts estimate fewer than 10,000 may exist, with only a few hundred in higher grades.
