1943-P (Philadelphia) Jefferson Nickels

Coin / United States of America / 1943 / Philadelphia / Jefferson Nickels / 5¢ (Five Cents, Nickel, Half Dime)

This coin is a 1943 Jefferson Nickel, minted in Philadelphia and marked with the mint mark "P." It is part of the United States series of Jefferson Nickels, which were first introduced in 1938 to honor Thomas Jefferson, the third president of the United States. The coin has a diameter of 21.2 mm and weighs 5 grams, making it a standard nickel size. It features a composition of Copper, Silver, and Manganese, which was a necessary adjustment during World War II due to metal shortages. The 1943 Jefferson Nickel is distinct from other years as it represents a time when the U.S. government was making these substitutions for practical reasons. With a mintage of 271,165,000, this particular nickel is relatively common, but its condition can greatly affect its value. This piece falls under the category of "mint strikes," indicating that it was produced with newly prepared dies and was intended for circulation. Overall, a 1943 Philadelphia Mint Jefferson Nickel showcases a piece of American history while serving as an everyday denomination during its time. Its intrinsic property as a coin makes it a collectible item for numismatists and history enthusiasts alike.