That's okay... nickels are just a different story than dimes, so I thought it best to ask. Short of any potential high grade (very unlikely) or varieties, the only ones with a worthwhile metal content were 1942-P through 1945 (45-45 all mints - large mintmark over Monticello). I certainly cannot say what dates you have, but can see at least one from the mod 2000s redesign, so I'm guessing most are later dates.
In my opinion, silver might go up within the next few years. If you can, I would hold onto at least a few of them. Then again, I have been saying the same thing for a couple of years =). if I were you, I would do some research. coinflation.com typically posts some good articles about bullion from other websites.
Pull out any Dimes, Quarters, or Halves 1964 and older those are referred to 90%. Separate the War Nickels the ones with large Mint marks over the Monticello. Halves 1965-1970 those are 40%. Wheat and then the other pennies. Start with these separate denomination bags. Now that you have them separated you will have a better ideas as to your thoughts. If you are just looking for money take them to at least a couple of coin dealers or one good sized coin show in your area. Most dealers will not pay anything other than base price if you have them all lumped together. Should you want to be a collector start with one those groups and sort for coins with low mintages separate those etc. Hard to give you much more info without seeing what you have. Good starting point if you are just wanting sell these items 90% can be sold in todays market Quarters and Dimes are ~(Face Value * Today's Silver Spot Price * .715) Spot price is listed on Kitco.com pre 1965 Halves will have a little premium. These prices are an approximate and most dealers will figure selling at this price so you should expect a little less. Good luck in your endeavors and I hope this will give you a little perspective .. Collecting is a great hobby some people just end up with a deceased relative and want to sell this pile of coins. Good idea you know something before you make the leap.
Wasn't it a couple years ago when nickels had $0.07 of nickel in the coin? I seem to recall people were hoarding them. Is that what you're asking? If you're ever interested in what a coin's "melt" value is, check out coinflation.com