The US 1898 Nickel coin, made of 75% copper and 25% nickel, was minted during the Spanish-American War. The conflict led to economic shifts, including increased military spending, which influenced coin production. The 1898 Nickels design, featuring Liberty and the word "CENTS," reflected the nations growing sense of patriotism and national unity amid the war effort.
Economically, the US 1898 Nickels metal composition was part of a strategy to use durable, cost-effective materials. This period also saw inflationary pressures, making small denominations like the nickel crucial for everyday transactions. The coins design and metal choice reflected both the political climate and economic needs of the time.