The Buffalo Indian Nickel’s worth can vary significantly, with common dates in circulated condition being worth just a few cents, while key dates in pristine condition can fetch thousands of dollars. For expert advice on valuing your Buffalo Nickel and maximizing its potential worth, reach out to the experienced numismatists at HOW.EDU.VN. We provide personalized insights to help you understand the true value of your coin.
1. What Determines the Value of a Buffalo Indian Nickel?
The value of a Buffalo Indian Nickel, also known as an Indian Head Nickel, is determined by several factors, including its date, mint mark, condition, and any existing rarities or varieties. Coin valuation depends on these key factors, but expert insights can make all the difference.
2. What Is the History of the Buffalo Nickel?
The Buffalo Nickel, a piece of American coinage history, was designed by James Earl Fraser as part of President Theodore Roosevelt’s Renaissance of American Coinage. The coin’s obverse features a Native American profile, believed to be a composite of several tribal chiefs. The reverse showcases an American buffalo, thought by many to be modeled after a specimen named Black Diamond from the New York City Zoo. The Buffalo Nickel had two types in its inaugural year of 1913. Type 1 featured the buffalo on a mound, and Type 2 had the denomination recessed to prevent wear.
3. What Are the Key Dates, Rarities, and Varieties of Buffalo Nickels?
Several Buffalo Nickels are significantly more valuable than others due to their rarity. Here are some key dates, rarities, and varieties that collectors seek:
- 1913-S Type 2: A scarce example from the San Francisco Mint.
- 1916/16: A doubled die variety with a significant error.
- 1918-D 8 over 7: Another doubled die variety with an overdate.
- 1921-S: A low-mintage coin from the San Francisco Mint.
- 1924-S: Another scarce date from the San Francisco Mint.
- 1926-S: Known for its low mintage and high value.
- 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo: A striking error coin missing one of the buffalo’s legs.
These coins are frequently counterfeited, so authentication by a reputable coin dealer or third-party grading service is essential before considering any transactions.
4. How Does the Condition of a Buffalo Nickel Affect Its Value?
The condition of a Buffalo Nickel significantly impacts its value. Coins are generally classified as either circulated or uncirculated.
- Circulated Coins: These coins show signs of wear from use.
- Uncirculated Coins: These coins have no signs of wear.
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Coins in better condition are worth more, and professional grading can help determine the exact grade of your Buffalo Nickel.
5. Where Are the Mint Marks Located on Buffalo Nickels?
The United States Mint produced Buffalo Nickels at three facilities: Philadelphia (no mint mark), Denver (D), and San Francisco (S). The mint mark is located on the reverse of the coin, below the denomination “FIVE CENTS.”
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6. What Are the Average Prices and Values of Buffalo Nickels?
The table below provides approximate buy and sell prices for circulated and uncirculated Buffalo Nickels. These prices can vary based on the coin’s specific grade and other factors.
| Date & Mint | Circ. Buy | Circ. Sell | Unc. Buy | Unc. Sell |
|—|—|—|—|—|
| 1913 Type 1 | $11.00 | $5.50 | $45.00 | $31.00 |
| 1913-D Type 1 | $14.00 | $7.00 | $80.00 | $60.00 |
| 1913-S Type 1 | $42.00 | $21.00 | $150.00 | $110.00 |
| 1913 Type 2 | $11.00 | $6.00 | $55.00 | $40.00 |
| 1913-D Type 2 | $90.00 | $55.00 | $300.00 | $250.00 |
| 1913-S Type 2 * | $280.00 | $150.00 | $900.00 | $700.005 |
| 1914 | $17.00 | $9.00 | $69.00 | $47.00 |
| 1914 4 over 3 | $420.00 | $200.00 | $4,400.00 | $3,500.00 |
| 1914-D | $90.00 | $50.00 | $500.00 | $330.00 |
| 1914-S | $31.00 | $15.00 | $290.00 | $210.00 |
| 1915 | $6.00 | $3.00 | $71.00 | $52.00 |
| 1915-D | $26.00 | $13.00 | $290.00 | $200.00 |
| 1915-S | $59.00 | $31.00 | $800.00 | $600.00 |
| 1916 | $5.00 | $2.50 | $67.00 | $49.00 |
| 1916 16 over 16 * | $6,500.00 | $4,000.00 | $125,000.00 | $90,000.00 |
| 1916-D | $18.00 | $9.00 | $220.00 | $160.00 |
| 1916-S | $14.90 | $7.30 | $230.00 | $170.00 |
| 1917 | $5.90 | $2.90 | $100.00 | $70.00 |
| 1917-D | $29.00 | $14.00 | $580.00 | $420.00 |
| 1917-S | $43.00 | $21.00 | $900.00 | $600.00 |
| 1918 | $6.90 | $3.60 | $250.00 | $170.00 |
| 1918-D 8 over 7 * | $1,800.00 | $1,200.00 | $43,000.00 | $36,000.00 |
| 1918-D | $31.00 | $16.00 | $710.00 | $520.00 |
| 1918-S | $27.00 | $14.00 | $1,500.00 | $1,100.00 |
| 1919 | $3.00 | $1.50 | $90.00 | $60.00 |
| 1919-D | $29.00 | $15.00 | $1,200.00 | $800.00 |
| 1919-S | $24.00 | $12.00 | $1,100.00 | $800.00 |
| 1920 | $3.70 | $1.90 | $100.00 | $70.00 |
| 1920-D | $19.00 | $10.00 | $1,100.00 | $700.00 |
| 1920-S | $13.00 | $6.20 | $1,100.00 | $800.00 |
| 1921 | $6.00 | $3.00 | $220.00 | $150.00 |
| 1921-S * | $90.00 | $50.00 | $1,900.00 | $1,200.00 |
| Date & Mint | Circ. Buy | Circ. Sell | Unc. Buy | Unc. Sell |
| 1923 | $3.60 | $1.70 | $110.00 | $70.00 |
| 1923-S | $12.90 | $6.10 | $680.00 | $470.00 |
| 1924 | $2.80 | $1.40 | $120.00 | $80.00 |
| 1924-D | $15.00 | $7.00 | $620.00 | $420.00 |
| 1924-S * | $48.00 | $24.00 | $2,700.00 | $1,800.00 |
| 1925 | $2.00 | $1.50 | $69.00 | $54.00 |
| 1925-D | $19.00 | $10.00 | $630.00 | $470.00 |
| 1925-S | $10.20 | $4.90 | $1,100.00 | $800.00 |
| 1926 | $2.00 | $1.00 | $54.00 | $39.00 |
| 1926-D | $15.00 | $8.00 | $390.00 | $290.00 |
| 1926-S * | $44.00 | $21.00 | $6,400.00 | $4,900.00 |
| 1927 | $1.20 | $0.60 | $62.00 | $45.00 |
| 1927-D | $4.70 | $2.40 | $280.00 | $210.00 |
| 1927-S | $2.70 | $1.40 | $1,500.00 | $1,100.00 |
| 1928 | $1.60 | $0.80 | $52.00 | $38.00 |
| 1928-D | $2.60 | $1.30 | $90.00 | $60.00 |
| 1928-S | $1.80 | $0.90 | $370.00 | $260.00 |
| 1929 | $1.70 | $0.80 | $55.00 | $38.00 |
| 1929-D | $1.70 | $0.90 | $100.00 | $70.00 |
| 1929-S | $1.30 | $0.70 | $69.00 | $49.00 |
| 1930 | $1.60 | $0.80 | $50.00 | $35.00 |
| 1930-S | $2.00 | $1.00 | $73.00 | $50.00 |
| 1931-S | $14.40 | $7.10 | $80.00 | $60.00 |
| 1934 | $1.30 | $0.60 | $49.00 | $33.00 |
| 1934-D | $2.50 | $1.20 | $100.00 | $70.00 |
| 1935 | $1.00 | $0.50 | $31.00 | $22.00 |
| 1935-D | $2.00 | $0.90 | $80.00 | $50.00 |
| 1935-S | $1.00 | $0.50 | $54.00 | $38.00 |
| 1936 | $1.00 | $0.50 | $27.00 | $19.00 |
| 1936-D | $1.20 | $0.60 | $35.00 | $24.00 |
| 1936-S | $1.00 | $0.50 | $37.00 | $25.00 |
| 1937 | $1.00 | $0.50 | $21.00 | $15.00 |
| 1937-D | $1.00 | $0.50 | $28.00 | $19.00 |
| 1937-D 3 Leg * | $560.00 | $280.00 | $3,300.00 | $2,400.00 |
| 1937-S | $1.00 | $0.50 | $28.00 | $19.00 |
| 1938-D | $2.80 | $1.40 | $24.00 | $17.00 |
| 1938-D D over S | $6.30 | $3.00 | $64.00 | $45.00 |
| Complete Date-Mint Set Total Coins: 61 | $900.00 | $450.00 | $33,000.00 | $23,000.00 |
| Complete Date Set Total Coins: 23 | $100.00 | $50.00 | $1,800.00 | $1,300.00 |
* = See “Buffalo Nickel Key Dates, Rarities and Varieties” for more information on these coins.
7. What Market Factors Influence the Value of Buffalo Nickels?
Buffalo Nickels have shown relative stability over the years. Unlike coins containing precious metals, their value is not significantly affected by fluctuations in the silver or gold markets. The demand among intermediate and advanced collectors helps maintain a viable market for quality coins.
8. How Can You Recognize the Most Valuable Buffalo Nickels?
To recognize the most valuable Buffalo Nickels, familiarize yourself with key dates, mint marks, and varieties. Detailed guides and photos can help you identify potential rarities. Additionally, consult with a professional numismatist for accurate identification.
9. Why Authenticate Buffalo Nickels?
Authenticating Buffalo Nickels is crucial, especially for key dates and rarities. Counterfeits and altered coins are prevalent, so professional authentication protects you from fraud. Services like the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC) and the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) provide authentication and grading.
10. Where Can You Get Expert Advice on Buffalo Nickel Values?
For expert advice on Buffalo Nickel values, consult with the experienced numismatists at HOW.EDU.VN. Our team can provide personalized insights and help you understand the true value of your coins. We offer comprehensive services to assist both buyers and sellers in the coin market.
Understanding the Intricacies of Buffalo Nickel Grading
Grading Buffalo Nickels can be complex, involving a detailed assessment of the coin’s condition. Professional grading services consider factors such as surface preservation, strike quality, and luster. Accurately grading your coins is essential for determining their true value.
Key Elements of Buffalo Nickel Design
The design of the Buffalo Nickel is rich with symbolism. The Native American portrait on the obverse represents the spirit of the American West, while the buffalo on the reverse embodies the nation’s natural heritage. These artistic elements contribute to the coin’s appeal among collectors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Valuing Buffalo Nickels
Many individuals make common mistakes when trying to assess the value of their Buffalo Nickels. These include:
- Ignoring Mint Marks: Overlooking the importance of mint marks.
- Misjudging Condition: Inaccurately assessing the coin’s grade.
- Failing to Authenticate: Neglecting to authenticate potential rarities.
Avoiding these mistakes can help you obtain a more accurate valuation.
The Role of Numismatic Societies in Coin Collecting
Numismatic societies play a crucial role in the coin collecting community. These organizations provide resources, educational opportunities, and a platform for collectors to connect and share their passion. Joining a numismatic society can enhance your knowledge and appreciation of coin collecting.
Tips for Buying and Selling Buffalo Nickels
Buying and selling Buffalo Nickels requires careful consideration. When buying, research the coin’s history, condition, and market value. When selling, seek multiple appraisals and consider using reputable platforms or dealers to ensure a fair transaction.
Exploring the Buffalo Nickel Market
The Buffalo Nickel market caters to both novice and experienced collectors. Understanding market trends and demand can help you make informed decisions about buying, selling, or holding onto your coins. Staying updated on the latest market analyses is vital.
Maintaining and Storing Your Buffalo Nickels
Proper maintenance and storage are essential for preserving the value of your Buffalo Nickels. Store coins in acid-free holders or albums and handle them with care to avoid damage. Regular inspections can help identify any potential issues early on.
Buffalo Nickels and Their Cultural Significance
Buffalo Nickels hold significant cultural value as artifacts of American history. They represent a period of artistic innovation and reflect the nation’s complex relationship with its Native American heritage. Appreciating this cultural significance adds another layer of enjoyment to coin collecting.
How to Get Started with Buffalo Nickel Collecting
Starting a Buffalo Nickel collection can be an exciting journey. Begin by researching the series, understanding grading standards, and setting a budget. Connecting with other collectors and joining numismatic societies can provide valuable support and guidance.
Do you find the world of numismatics fascinating? Collecting Buffalo Nickels is more than just a hobby; it’s a journey through American history. Each coin tells a story, and with the right knowledge, you can unlock their true worth.
Are you ready to take your passion for coin collecting to the next level? Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting out, understanding the intricacies of Buffalo Nickel values can be challenging. Don’t let uncertainty hold you back.
At HOW.EDU.VN, we connect you with leading numismatic experts who can provide personalized advice tailored to your specific needs. Our experienced team offers comprehensive services, from coin authentication to market analysis, ensuring you make informed decisions.
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Don’t waste time searching for answers on your own. Let our experts guide you to success in the world of coin collecting.
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