Buffalo Nickel Value Guide

The Buffalo Nickel, also known as the Indian Head Nickel, is a beloved U.S. coin that was minted from 1913 to 1938. Designed by the accomplished sculptor James Earle Fraser, this five-cent piece was introduced to replace the Liberty Nickel.

The obverse side of the Buffalo Nickel features a striking portrait of a Native American, believed to be a composite of three different individuals. The word "LIBERTY" appears to the right of the portrait, while the minting year can be found below.

The reverse side showcases an iconic American buffalo, thought to be inspired by Black Diamond, a bison that lived in the New York Central Park Zoo. The words "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA," "E PLURIBUS UNUM," and the denomination "FIVE CENTS" are inscribed around the buffalo.

The Buffalo Nickel was part of the U.S. Mint's efforts to beautify American coinage and celebrate the country's rich history and culture. Throughout its mintage, the coin faced production challenges due to its high-relief design, which led to rapid wear and date visibility issues.



Despite these challenges, the Buffalo Nickel has become a highly sought-after collectible. Some key dates and mint marks, such as the 1913-S Type 2, 1921-S, and 1937-D 3-legged Buffalo Nickels, are particularly valuable to collectors due to their rarity and historical significance.