CU-5c-1942S-03 Cud

Description

Third in the Cuds on Coins catalog for the 1942-S wartime silver alloy Jefferson Nickel and cross-referenced as JNC-42S-2 in the Jefferson Nickel Cud system, this variety documents yet another rim die break on this transitional-composition date-mint. Three cataloged cuds for the 1942-S nickel — alongside at least two more (JNC-42S-5 cross-referenced under CU-5c-1942S-02) — indicates an unusually active cud census for this issue, potentially reflecting the metallurgical challenges of transitioning to the wartime 56% copper, 35% silver, 9% manganese alloy during 1942. The cross-reference numbering differs between the two systems: Cuds on Coins assigns 03 while JNC assigns 42S-2, illustrating the independent cataloging sequences maintained by each reference authority. The 1942-S wartime nickel is distinguished by its large S mintmark positioned above Monticello's dome on the reverse — a wartime-specific placement that also provides variety collectors with a reverse orientation landmark relative to which the cud's position can be described. Rim cuds form through die fatigue at the edge, where repeated striking concentrates mechanical stress at the geometric transition between the die face and the collar. The San Francisco Mint struck these wartime nickels at 5.0 grams, and the silver alloy content gives them a different tonal quality and surface character compared to the standard copper-nickel composition. Felix Schlag's Jefferson portrait and Monticello building frame this die break variety within one of the most recognized and longest-running American coin designs, now in its ninth decade of continuous production.

Attribution History

• Discovered by Fred Weinberg
• Cross reference number: JNC-42S-2
• Expert attribution by Cuds on Coins

External References