A five-cent piece struck in 1945 at the San Francisco Mint containing 35% silver is a notable variant of United States coinage. Its composition deviates from the standard cupro-nickel alloy used for other nickels of that era. The presence of a large mint mark “S” above Monticello on the reverse distinguishes it from its non-silver counterparts.
These coins hold significance for collectors due to their silver content and historical context. Wartime nickel production necessitated the temporary removal of nickel from the alloy, leading to the use of silver as a substitute. This created a tangible connection to the material sacrifices made during the Second World War. The “S” mint mark indicates San Francisco Mint that makes it a valuable piece.