Historical Perspective:
During World War II, nickel was needed for ammunition, so the U.S. Mint switched to this silver alloy for the nickel coin.
 
This coin is a 1945-P silverJefferson nickel, also known as a "war nickel", and is made of a silver alloy (35% silver, 56% copper, and 9% manganese) and weighs 5 grams. While it is not made entirely of silver, the wartime composition change makes it a unique piece of history. These nickels were minted with a "P" mintmark above Monticello. 
 
With doubled die errors, die chips & cuds,  this Jefferson war nickel from 1945 is a valuable addition to any coin collection, especially for those looking to add a piece of US war history to their portfolio.