.056 ozt United States War Nickel Silver 5¢

A 1942-P U.S. nickel (identified by the large 'P' mint mark above Monticello on the reverse) is a "War Nickel" and contains 35% silver, mixed with 56% copper and 9% manganese, making it worth more than face value due to its precious metal content, unlike early 1942 nickels which were regular copper-nickel. 

Composition: 35% Silver, 56% Copper, 9% Manganese.

Identification: Look for a large "P" above the dome of Monticello on the back (reverse) of the coin.

Why it's Silver: Nickel was a strategic metal for the war effort, so it was replaced with silver from late 1942 to 1945. 

Check the Mint Mark: If it has a large "P," "D," or "S" above Monticello, it's a silver war nickel.

Content .05626 troy oz. fine silver

Mint: United States Mint

Weight: 5 g or 1.75 grams fine silver

Diameter approx. : 21.2 mm

Purity: 35.0%

Denomination: 5 cents

Year: 1942 to 1945