Not All Nickels Weigh 5g. (1943 P)

Coins can have a slight difference in the weight that is still within a range considered normal which is called tolerance. The tolerance for nickels in this chart is shown to be +/- .19 grams. When it is still outside that tolerance using a accurate scale as JimmyD mentioned then you can consider other possibilities for the low weight next and post photos if you wish to get opinions.

Interesting that every modern nickel weighs 5.000 grams or 0.176 ounces including the 1942-1945 Nickels. Before the Jefferson nickels there were other series such as the Washington nickel, Shield nickel, Buffalo nickel and the Liberty Head V nickel. Each of these series also weigh exactly 5 grams! So the nickels found in your change should all weigh 5 grams and checking tolerance as well unless they have wear, errors, damage or a different composition. The earliest nickels weighed much less than 5 grams. The first nickel ever produced was the " Half Disme". It was produced in 1792 and it weighs just 1.2 grams. Next came the Flowing Hair Half Dime (nickel) that weighs 1.34 grams. The Draped Bust and Capped Bust Half Dime series followed and they each weigh 1.35 grams. Starting in 1837 until the Coinage Act of 1873, the nickel went through changes so the weight wasn't consistent. In 1837 the Seated Liberty half dime was minted with a weight of 1.34 grams. In 1853 this coin's weight changed to 1.24 grams. It continued to be minted with a weight of 1.24 grams until the series ended in 1873. So you are also correct that not all nickels weigh 5.0 grams!

I assert that the Half Disme or Half Dime was never a nickel. I also assert that the first nickel was the Three Cent Nickel and it weighed less than five grams.

to the CCF.

Put up some photos and we'll address your follow on question - although I don't understand what you are asking.

I am having issues with posting pictures..I've gone n donee it over multiple times.