Certain five-cent pieces, while typically composed of a copper-nickel alloy, did contain silver during a specific period. These coins, possessing a higher silver content than standard circulating currency, were produced as a result of wartime metal conservation efforts. An example of these coins is the “wartime nickel”.
The inclusion of silver in these coins provides them with numismatic value beyond their face value. The historical context surrounding their production adds significance, reflecting the material sacrifices made during a major global conflict. The silver content also provides intrinsic value tied to the precious metal market.