Short Answer 
To find two coins that add up to 55 cents, consider common US coin denominations. Notably, one coin can’t be a nickel, which leads to the solution of a 50-cent coin and a nickel being the right combination.
Identify the Coin Values
To solve the problem of finding two coins that add up to 55 cents, you need to consider the various denominations of coins available. Commonly used coins in the US include the half dollar (50 cents), quarter (25 cents), dime (10 cents), nickel (5 cents), and penny (1 cent). By knowing these values, you can narrow down your options effectively.
Analyze the Clue Given
The question specifies that one of the coins is not a nickel. This is a crucial detail that leads to a common misunderstanding. Instead, focus on the possibility that while one coin cannot be a nickel, the second coin can be. This allows for the combination of a 50-cent coin and a nickel to make 55 cents.
Determine the Coin Combination
After analyzing the values and the clue, the two coins that satisfy the condition of totaling 55 cents are identified as follows:
- 50-cent coin (a half dollar)
- 5-cent coin (a nickel)
This combination effectively clarifies the puzzle, demonstrating that even with one coin being out of the ordinary, the other can still fulfill the requirement.