Fair Value Measurements (Tables)

6 Months Ended

Jun. 29, 2013

Schedule of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities Measured at Fair Value

The following table summarizes information regarding Nucor’s financial assets and financial liabilities that were measured at fair value as of June 29, 2013 and December 31, 2012 (in thousands). Nucor does not currently have any non-financial assets or liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis.

Description	Carrying Amount in Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets			Fair Value Measurements at Reporting Date Using
				Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1)		Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2)			Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)
As of June 29, 2013
Assets:
Cash equivalents	$	505,167		$	505,167	$	—		$	—
Short-term investments		47,656			47,656		—			—
Restricted cash		71,083			71,083		—			—
Foreign exchange and commodity contracts		1,441			—		1,441			—
Total assets	$	625,347		$	623,906	$	1,441		$	—
As of December 31, 2012
Assets:
Cash equivalents	$	830,011		$	830,011	$	—		$	—
Short-term investments		104,167			104,167		—			—
Restricted cash and investments		275,163			275,163		—			—
Total assets	$	1,209,341		$	1,209,341	$	—		$	—
Liabilities:
Foreign exchange and commodity contracts	$	(318	)	$	—	$	(318	)	$	—