Silver Nickels...illegal to melt??

[VWBEAMER]

I'm guessing yes, see no exceptions in the ban. It simply says 5 cent and 1 cent coins.

[PennyPauper]

It's legal,and you can export them.They are a tiny fraction of total nickels.There is a exemption for them.


(d) The prohibition contained in § 82.1 against the exportation, melting, or treatment of 5-cent coins shall not apply to 5-cent coins inscribed with the years 1942, 1943, 1944, or 1945 that are composed of an alloy comprising copper, silver and manganese.

Check this post viewtopic.php?f=7&t=3230

[VWBEAMER]

Thanks.

[misteroman]

wow, wouldn't have guessed that.

[Know Common Cents]

From what I understand, millions were shipped overseas and melted. The Manganese content makes it tough to melt (smelt) here in the US diue to the EPA rules. It's really amazing that with current silver pricing these common bullion coins (0.05626 oz each) now melt for over $1.50 each.

[wagsthadog]

Hi there-

Just unsolicited advice- One thing I learned the hard way, unless you own a multimillion dollar refining facility, don't try it. Silver of that low a purity will be impossible to sell and will be a neverending hassle.(If you're looking to melt and resell)

Just like pennies- it's already a recognized, accepted, and professionally made product, why melt it and destroy it? You'd be making much more work for yourself. If you just have like five or six nickels you want to try to melt in your garage, go for it, but if you're thinking of buying a bag to melt, I really wouldn't.

just my .02c

wags