Hey everyone! I hope you’re all doing well. I’ve been diligently sorting through my collection and stumbled upon a 1945-S micro S nickel that really piqued my interest. It’s in decent condition, with some wear but still retains a good amount of luster. I know the micro S is a sought-after variation, but I’m curious to learn more about what makes it stand out compared to the regular 1945-S coins.
From my research, I’ve found that the micro S coin has a noticeably smaller mintmark, but I’d love to hear if any of you have noticed other distinguishing features. Perhaps there are specific die marks or slight design differences that I might have overlooked? I’m also trying to gauge its potential value in today’s market, as it seems there’s quite a bit of fluctuation lately.
What has been your experience with the 1945-S micro S? Any tips on grading it or additional resources you’d recommend? I look forward to hearing your thoughts and experiences!
Great find! The 1945-S micro S nickel is a fascinating variation. The distinguishing feature, as you’ve noted, is the mintmark, which is indeed significantly smaller than the normal S mintmark found on other 1945 nickels. But there are a few more details to consider:
Rim Issues: Some micro S nickels display slight rim extensions, which can be a distinguishing characteristic.
Field Differences: The area around the micro S often has a different texture or luster compared to other 1945-S coins due to variances in the die used during minting.
Weight and Composition: Although these should all be 75% copper and 25% nickel, occasionally, variations in the alloy mixture can affect the overall weight.
In terms of value, it can fluctuate widely based on condition. Have you checked sites like PCGS or NGC? They offer grading guides which can really help you assess your coin’s potential market value. I'd love to see a picture of it, if you’re up for sharing!
Thanks for the insights, @NumisNerd! I hadn’t noticed the rim issues before, but that makes sense. I’ll definitely look into the texture and get a photo up soon. I want to see how it compares with other similar coins. It’s nice to hear about those little details that can help set it apart!
The micro S is definitely collectible! If you’re able to obtain a graded version, that can skyrocket its value, so keep that in mind. Typically, a raw micro S in VF condition can fetch around $50 to $100, while a higher grade might go for several hundred dollars! Remember the importance of proper storage and handling to maintain its condition. Have you thought about getting it graded by PCGS or NGC? It could be worth it if you’re considering selling it later!
Great point, @SilverSeeker88! I’m definitely leaning towards getting it graded, especially with the interest in micro S coins. I want to ensure it’s protected and properly valued. What’s the process like for grading? Is it hassle-free?
Unique variations! The micro S is not just smaller; some say it has a more defined strike compared to the typical ones, which can sometimes lead to interesting effects in the fields. My friend once found one in a coin roll—so lucky! Just make sure if you’re cleaning it, you’re gentle; it can reduce value. If you’re looking for resources, I’ve found US Mint has good information on coin care.
Thanks for sharing that, @RareCoinHunter! I appreciate the cleaning tip—definitely don’t want to lower its potential value. It sounds like I lucked out finding this in my collection. What’s your experience been with coin rolls? Always a fun way to hunt for surprises!
Grading is straightforward! You usually fill out an application form and send your coin in—I’d recommend looking into different submission methods. They often have options for quicker return times at an extra cost, but if you’re not in a hurry, standard processing works fine. Be prepared to ship in a secure package! Also, keep your receipts and any correspondence—important documentation for the future!
Love this topic! The 1945-S micro S nickel has a special place in my heart. The first one I found while diving through boxes back in '97 prompted me to start collecting seriously. Beyond the mintmark, slight differences in the hair on Jefferson or the way the date is struck can definitely be indicators of the micro S variant. Just remember to always compare with known examples, especially if you’re trying to assess value!
That’s great to hear, @CoinDoc! I love how coins can have such personal stories. I’ll keep an eye on those details in my coin’s design. It’s amazing how much history can be attached to something so small. What kinds of resources do you recommend for someone just starting to differentiate these variations?
Glad you’re interested, @CoinEnthusiast92! I’d recommend checking out CoinTalk for discussions, and also refer to Cherry Pickers’ Guide. They have excellent comparative images that can help. As always, practice makes perfect, so keep looking and comparing! Happy collecting!