Elongated silver Jefferson nickel with 'Rialto' impression

This is an elongated or pressed coin, a novelty item created by feeding a coin through a rolling press that imprints a new design while stretching the metal. The base coin appears to be a wartime silver Jefferson nickel (1942-1945), which contained 35% silver due to nickel being needed for the war effort. These coins are identifiable by their large mintmark above Monticello on the reverse. Elongated coins became popular souvenirs at tourist attractions, amusement parks, and special events throughout the 20th century. The 'Rialto' impression suggests this was created at a specific location, possibly the historic Rialto Theatre or another Rialto landmark. Collectors of elongated coins, known as exonumists, appreciate these items for their historical connection to specific places and events. The use of a wartime silver nickel as the base coin adds numismatic interest, as these coins are already collectible due to their silver content and historical significance during World War II.