The United States Buffalo Nickel, officially known as the Indian Head nickel, is a iconic coin that was minted from 1913 to 1938. Designed by James Earle Fraser, the coin features an obverse (front side) depicting a portrait of a Native American, while the reverse (back side) showcases an American bison, commonly referred to as a buffalo. The Buffalo Nickel is a beloved collector's item, with its unique design and historical significance making it a staple of American numismatics.
Design and History
The Buffalo Nickel was introduced in 1913, as part of a broader effort to revamp the design of American coins. The new coin was designed by James Earle Fraser, a renowned sculptor and artist, who drew inspiration from his own experiences growing up in the American West. The obverse of the coin features a portrait of a Native American, which is often mistakenly believed to be a specific individual, such as Geronimo or Sitting Bull. However, Fraser himself stated that the portrait was a composite of several Native American leaders, including Iron Tail, Two Moons, and John Big Tree.
Design Elements
The reverse of the Buffalo Nickel features an American bison, which was chosen for its symbolic significance as a representation of the American wilderness. The bison is depicted in a naturalistic pose, with the words “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “FIVE CENTS” inscribed above and below the animal, respectively. The coin’s design was widely praised for its beauty and simplicity, and it quickly became a popular collector’s item. Over the years, the Buffalo Nickel has undergone several design changes, including a modification to the reverse in 1913, which added the motto “E PLURIBUS UNUM” (Out of many, one) to the design.
| Year | Mintage | Notable Varieties |
|---|---|---|
| 1913 | 70,554,000 | Type I (with motto) |
| 1914 | 20,664,000 | None |
| 1915 | 20,986,000 | None |
| 1916 | 11,456,000 | None |
| 1917 | 51,424,000 | None |
Key Points
- The Buffalo Nickel was minted from 1913 to 1938, with a total mintage of over 1.2 billion coins.
- The coin's design features a portrait of a Native American on the obverse and an American bison on the reverse.
- The Buffalo Nickel is a popular collector's item, with several notable varieties and errors, including the 1913 Type I and the 1937-D "Three-Legged" buffalo.
- The coin's historical significance is tied to the broader context of American numismatics, with the Buffalo Nickel playing a significant role in the development of the country's coinage system.
- The Buffalo Nickel is an iconic symbol of American culture, with its unique design and historical significance making it a staple of American numismatics.
Collecting and Rarity
The Buffalo Nickel is a highly collectible coin, with several notable varieties and errors that can greatly affect its value. One of the most famous errors is the 1913 Type I, which features the motto “E PLURIBUS UNUM” on the reverse. This variety is highly sought after by collectors, with prices ranging from 100 to 1,000, depending on the coin’s condition and rarity. Another notable error is the 1937-D “Three-Legged” buffalo, which features a bison with only three legs. This error is extremely rare, with only a few examples known to exist.
Grading and Condition
The condition of a Buffalo Nickel can greatly affect its value, with coins in good condition commanding higher prices. The coin’s grade is determined by its level of wear, with higher grades indicating less wear and more detail. The most common grading scale used for Buffalo Nickels is the Sheldon scale, which ranges from 1 to 70. Coins with high grades, such as MS-65 or MS-66, are highly prized by collectors and can sell for thousands of dollars.
In addition to its condition, the rarity of a Buffalo Nickel can also affect its value. Coins with low mintage numbers, such as the 1913 Type I or the 1937-D "Three-Legged" buffalo, are highly sought after by collectors and can command high prices. Other factors, such as the coin's provenance and historical significance, can also impact its value.
What is the most valuable Buffalo Nickel?
+The most valuable Buffalo Nickel is the 1913 Type I, which can sell for up to $1,000 in good condition. However, the value of the coin can vary greatly depending on its condition, rarity, and provenance.
How can I determine the authenticity of a Buffalo Nickel?
+To determine the authenticity of a Buffalo Nickel, you should examine the coin's design, condition, and weight. You can also consult with a professional numismatist or use specialized equipment, such as a coin scale or a magnifying glass.
What is the rarest Buffalo Nickel error?
+The rarest Buffalo Nickel error is the 1937-D "Three-Legged" buffalo, which features a bison with only three legs. This error is extremely rare, with only a few examples known to exist.
In conclusion, the Buffalo Nickel is a highly collectible and iconic coin that has become a staple of American numismatics. Its unique design, historical significance, and rarity make it a beloved collector’s item, with several notable varieties and errors that can greatly affect its value. Whether you’re a seasoned numismatist or just starting your collection, the Buffalo Nickel is a must-have coin that is sure to appreciate in value over time.
