In 2025, cashier Sarah Miller in Iowa discovered a coin that would change her life—an unassuming 1943 Jefferson Nickel with a silvery shine and a hidden secret. It turned out to be the 1943/2-P overdate wartime error, a rare coin now valued at $1.2 million.
This discovery reignited national interest in wartime nickels, proving that even spare change can hold untold fortune.
What Makes Wartime Jefferson Nickels So Special?
The Jefferson nickel was introduced in 1938, but during World War II (1942–1945), the U.S. Mint changed its composition to 35% silver to preserve nickel and copper for military use. These coins, known as wartime nickels, are identified by a large mint mark (P, D, or S) placed above Monticello’s dome.
Key Features of Wartime Nickels:
- Composition: 35% silver, 56% copper, 9% manganese
- Mint Marks: Large “P” (Philadelphia), “D” (Denver), or “S” (San Francisco) above the dome
- Date Range: 1942–1945
- Special Errors: Overdates and double dies are rare and valuable
Why the 1943/2-P Overdate Is a Collector’s Dream
This ultra-rare variety occurred when a 1943 die was stamped over a 1942 die, creating a visible overdate: the “3” printed over the faint remains of a “2”.
How to Spot the 1943/2-P Nickel:
- Date: “1943/2” – look for remnants of “2” beneath the “3”
- Mint Mark: A large “P” above Monticello’s dome
- Color: Bright silver due to the 35% silver alloy
- Detail: Coins in high grade (AU or MS condition) command much higher values
- Tool: A jeweler’s loupe or magnifying glass is essential for spotting the overdate
Another High-Value Coin: 1943-P Double Die Obverse
If you don’t find the overdate, there’s still hope. The 1943-P Double Die Obverse is another valuable error where Jefferson’s portrait and “LIBERTY” appear doubled.
Spotting the Double Die:
- Doubling visible on letters and Jefferson’s face
- Blurry or shadowed appearance
- Large “P” mint mark
Value Table for Rare Wartime Nickels
| Coin Type | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| 1943/2-P Overdate | Up to $1.2 million |
| 1943-P Double Die Obverse | $10,000 – $50,000 |
Where to Search for Rare Jefferson Nickels
These coins may still be hiding in:
- Bank coin rolls
- Cash register drawers
- Old coin jars at home
- Estate collections
- Flea markets or yard sales
Use gloves to handle any suspect coins, and avoid cleaning them—scratches drastically reduce their value. For verification and grading, trusted services like PCGS or NGC are recommended.
Sarah’s Story: How a $0.05 Coin Became a $1.2M Jackpot
Sarah Miller’s discovery in a small Iowa grocery store is not just lucky—it’s inspirational. She noticed something different about the coin’s shine and date. After confirming it with a coin expert, it was authenticated, graded, and sold at auction for over a million dollars.
This proves that rare coins can still be in circulation, and awareness is key to finding them.
The Wartime Jefferson Nickel, especially the 1943/2-P overdate, is a shining example of how small coins can carry historical value and massive financial worth.
Whether you’re a collector or just curious, checking your spare change could yield a life-changing reward. With demand for these coins surging in 2025, now is the perfect time to inspect your pocket change—you might be holding history.
FAQs
What makes the 1943/2-P Jefferson Nickel so valuable?
The overdate error (3 stamped over a 2), silver content, and extreme rarity make this coin worth up to $1.2 million.
Where can I find a wartime Jefferson Nickel?
Check bank coin rolls, pocket change, vintage coin jars, and estate sales—some have been found in everyday circulation.
Should I clean a rare nickel before grading?
No. Cleaning a coin can scratch its surface and significantly reduce its market value. Handle with gloves and consult an expert.
