A Lucky Find in a Coin Jar
Last month, a woman in Boise, Idaho, stumbled upon a rare coin while sorting through her late grandfather’s old coin jar. Emily Carter, a 29-year-old teacher, found a 1943 Jefferson nickel that looked different from the others. It had a strange shine and a large mint mark on the back. Curious, she showed it to a friend who collects coins, and he suggested she get it appraised. Little did she know, this small nickel was worth over $1.8 million, making it one of the most valuable coins in America.
Why This Nickel Stands Out
During World War II, the U.S. Mint changed the Jefferson nickel’s makeup to save copper and nickel for the war effort. Most 1943 nickels were made of steel, but a few were accidentally struck in silver alloy at the Philadelphia Mint. These rare “1943-P” nickels are now prized by collectors. Carter’s coin was in near-perfect condition, with clear details and no major scratches. According to auction records, a similar 1943-P silver nickel sold for $1.84 million in 2023.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Year | 1943 |
| Material | Silver Alloy (Rare) |
| Mint Mark | P (Philadelphia) |
| Estimated Value | $1.84 Million |
The Authentication Process
Carter took her nickel to a professional coin grader in Denver to confirm its value. The grading team examined the coin’s surface, weight, and mint mark under high-powered microscopes. They confirmed it was one of only 12 known 1943-P silver nickels. “I was shaking when they told me,” Carter said. The coin’s rarity and condition made it a top find. She plans to sell it at a major coin auction next spring, hoping to match or beat the record price.
A Community Buzz
Carter’s discovery has sparked a coin craze in Boise. Local pawn shops and coin dealers report more people bringing in old coins, hoping to find a treasure. “Everyone’s checking their change now,” said Mike Larson, owner of Boise Coin Shop. He notes that most Jefferson nickels are worth just five cents, but rare ones like Carter’s are a different story. The excitement has even reached schools, where Carter’s students are learning about coins and history.
| Common Nickel | Rare 1943-P Nickel |
|---|---|
| Worth 5 Cents | Worth up to $1.84 Million |
| Made of Steel | Made of Silver Alloy |
| Common in 1943 | Only 12 Known |
Plans for the Future
Carter, who teaches at a local elementary school, says the money could change her life. She wants to pay off her student loans, buy a small house, and donate part of the proceeds to her school for new books and supplies. For now, she’s keeping the nickel safe in a bank vault. “I still can’t believe my grandpa’s old jar held a million-dollar coin,” she said with a smile. Her story has inspired others to look closely at everyday items.
A Reminder to Look Closely
This rare nickel shows that treasures can hide in plain sight. Experts suggest checking old coins for unusual mint marks, dates, or materials. While most won’t be worth millions, the chance of finding something special keeps collectors excited. Carter’s find has put Boise in the spotlight and reminded everyone that history can turn a simple coin into a life-changing discovery.
