Diagnostic Controls & Presets Historic First 'P' Mintmark In U.S. History • 35% Silver Guide
Diagnostic Forensic Readings
Forensic Attribution Diagnostic
Real-time metallurgical and die variety cross-examination verified against certified populations.
Technical Breakdown: Physics, Metallurgy & Die Diagnostics
The First 'P' Mintmark in U.S. History
From the founding of the U.S. Mint in 1792 through mid-1942, coins struck at the mother mint in Philadelphia never bore a mintmark. In October 1942, to signal the new 35% silver alloy, the Mint made history:
The oversized mintmark allowed the Treasury to easily identify and segregate the silver nickels after the war for melting and recovery.
Type 1 vs Type 2 Mintage & Physical Specs
Both traditional cupronickel and silver alloy nickels were produced in 1942:
Every Type 2 War Nickel contains 0.0563 troy ounces of pure silver, giving each circulated coin a baseline precious metal bullion melt value regardless of condition.
Documented Benchmark Auction Records
Heritage Auctions Signature Sale. Top pop certified specimen with pristine Full Steps and blazing silver-white satin luster.
GreatCollections Certified Auction. Classic choice gem representing the debut year of the historic 'P' mintmark.
Traditional pre-war cupronickel strike without mintmark, produced before the mid-year silver transition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does the 1942-P Nickel have a giant 'P' above Monticello?
It was the very first coin in U.S. history to feature a 'P' mintmark for Philadelphia. The large letter was placed above the dome so banks and the Treasury could easily identify the coins after World War II to melt them for their silver content.
What is the difference between 1942 Type 1 and Type 2 nickels?
Type 1 nickels were struck early in 1942 with traditional 75% copper and 25% nickel, featuring no mintmark. Type 2 nickels were struck starting in October 1942 with 35% silver, 56% copper, and 9% manganese, featuring a giant 'P' above Monticello.
How much silver is in a 1942-P Type 2 nickel?
Each 1942-P Type 2 War Nickel contains 0.0563 troy ounces of pure silver (worth about $1.50 to $2.00 in raw melt value alone depending on silver spot prices).
Did Denver and San Francisco also strike 1942 War Nickels?
San Francisco struck 1942-S Type 2 silver nickels with a large 'S' above the dome. Denver struck Type 1 traditional nickels in 1942 (1942-D) and did not begin silver production until 1943.
Can I find a 1942-P silver nickel in pocket change?
Yes! War nickels are among the most common silver coins found by roll hunters searching bank nickel boxes today because they are the same size and weight as modern nickels.
How do I test if my 1942 nickel is silver?
Check the reverse: if there is a giant letter 'P' or 'S' above the dome, it is 100% genuine silver. If there is no mintmark or a small 'D' to the right of the building, it is standard cupronickel.
What does 'Full Steps' mean on a 1942-P Type 2?
Full Steps indicates that the horizontal steps at the base of Monticello are completely struck with zero bridging or contact dings. MS-67 Full Steps specimens sell for over $1,800.