Buffalo Nickel – America’s Historic Coin
Buffalo Nickel, or Indian Head Nickel, is an extremely precise and liked coin in American history. The coin become designed by way of famend designer James Earle Fraser. This design splendidly displays the tough and fight spirit of America’s early days.
Even though many versions of this coin exist, the 1913-D Type 1 Buffalo Nickel is one that is maximum famous for its seems. After a superb replica of this coin sold for $99,875, it obtained a unique position among collectors.
Coin information in detail
This coin was constructed from a robust metal composition based on day by day necessities, as a consequence making it last longer. However, due to this, it turned into challenging to preserve it in excellent circumstance.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 21.20 mm |
| Weight | 5.00 grams |
| Composition | 75% Copper, 25% Nickel |
| Edge | Plain |
| Mint | Denver (D mintmark) |
| Mintage Total | 17,826,000 (in 1913) |
The principal details are as follows:
- Mint: Denver Mint
- Mintmark: “D” (below FIVE CENTS on the reverse side of the coin)
- Version: Type 1 – Standing figure of bison on elevated terrain
- Number of minted copies: Over 1.7 crore
Beauty of design
James Earle Fraser‘s design is regarded as the finest design among American coins.
Obverse:
The coin carries a Native American profile. Fraser has stated that the face was developed by mashing together three tribal chiefs’ features. The design was extremely vibrant, emotive and unlike any of the previous coins.
Reverse
The other side of the coin has a gigantic American Bison standing on a mound. This is what makes it Type 1. The background is like America’s wild past and frontier life.
Is this coin really rare
Though Denver Mint has made over 17 million copies of this coin, a majority of these copies have been worn out and damaged due to general use. Hence, whatever coins exist in good condition are extremely valuable today.
For instance, a 1913-D Type 1 coin in perfect condition certified with the aid of PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service) was offered at an auction for $99,875. Its value was so high not best as it became so antique, but additionally as it turned into in perfect condition and detail.
What makes it so special to the collectors
There are certain extremely crucial reasons behind this coin, because of which collectors attempt to acquire it:
- Historical significance: This design was originally made available in 1913.
- Specialty of Denver Mint: The copies with the 1913 “D” mintmark are more sought after.
- Excellent design and detail: The surviving copies in good shape display a very elegant and tidy design.
- Investment value: The worth of such scarce coins continues to appreciate over time.
For most individuals, this coin is not merely a Five Cents coin, but a representation of America’s explorative past.
Special role of Denver Mint
Denver Mint produced millions of copies of Buffalo Nickel in 1913. But the thing that special about it is its “D” mintmark. This mark appears on the reverse of the coin under the words “FIVE CENTS”. This tiny mark turns a common coin into an invaluable treasure among collectors.
If you have or want to purchase this coin
If you have an old Buffalo Nickel, or you want to buy it, then you should contact a reliable coin dealer. Rare Coin Dealers are available in different states of America, such as:
- Arkansas Coin Dealers
- Alaska Coin Dealers
- Arizona Coin Dealers
You may also call your local old coin shop or certified grading service such as PCGS or NGC so that you can know what is the worth of your coin.
Conclusion – It is not just a coin, it is a heritage
1913-D Type 1 Buffalo Nickel is more than your average coin. It is a living piece of American art, history and culture. If you are a collector, or simply have an interest in old coins, this coin might just become a priceless treasure among your collection.
You might find yourself tripping over this little beauty one day — so keep your eyes open, because fortune favors the prepared.
FAQs
What is the Buffalo Nickel also known as?
It’s also called the Indian Head Nickel, famous for its bold design and deep American cultural symbolism.
Who designed the 1913-D Buffalo Nickel?
James Earle Fraser designed it, inspired by Native American heritage and the rugged spirit of the American frontier.
Why is the 1913-D Type 1 Buffalo Nickel valuable?
Despite high mintage, few exist in perfect condition, making top-grade specimens rare and extremely valuable to collectors.
