Nitration of phenol and various 4-substituted phenols with Cu(NO3)2.3H2O, Cu(NO3)2.3H2O/SiO2, 9H2O and Cr(NO3)2. 9H2O in different anhydrous organic solvents are investigated. High selectivity ratio of para vs ortho isomers has been observed. Mono- and dinitro compounds from phenol and 4-substituted phenols by choosing the proper solvents and reaction conditions, are also obtained with high selectivity in excellent yields. Rate enhancement for mononitration of phenols in the presence of LiClO4 with Cu(NO3)2.3H2O is observed.