1945 S Nickel Value
War nickel values have gotten complicated with all the silver content calculations, grade premiums, and condition debates flying around. As someone who has collected the complete war nickel series, I learned everything there is to know about these unique coins. Today, I will share it all with you.
Why 1945-S Matters
Probably should have led with this section, honestly—the 1945-S was one of the final war nickels before production returned to standard copper-nickel composition. These coins contain 35% silver, making them worth more than face value for metal content alone.
Composition
War nickels (1942-1945) were made of 56% copper, 35% silver, and 9% manganese. The silver content gives each coin about $1-2 in melt value depending on silver prices.
Identification
That’s what makes war nickels easy for us collectors—look for the large mintmark above Monticello’s dome. Regular nickels have small mintmarks on the obverse. If it’s above the dome, it’s silver.
Value by Grade
- Good to Fine: $1.50-$2.50 (near melt value)
- Very Fine to Extremely Fine: $3-$5
- About Uncirculated: $5-$7
- Mint State 60-64: $10-$25
- Mint State 65+: $40+
Collecting Strategy
War nickels are affordable and historically significant. The complete series includes 11 coins (1942-P, 1942-S through 1945-P, D, S). Building a set represents an accessible entry point into silver coin collecting.
Storage
Store in dry conditions to prevent tarnishing. The silver content makes these coins more prone to environmental damage than standard nickels.
