1930 Buffalo Nickel Value Guide

The 1930 Buffalo Nickel is a quintessential piece of American numismatic history, representing the rugged spirit of the West through James Earle Fraser's detailed artistry. Struck in a copper-nickel alloy, this specific year is highly sought after by collectors looking for well-preserved examples of the composite Native American portrait and the iconic 'Black Diamond' bison.

What affects the value of 1930 Buffalo Nickel?

• The presence of a sharp, clear horn on the bison's head significantly increases the coin's grade and market value.
• Surface preservation is key, as coins with original luster and minimal contact marks command prices at the higher end of the $10-$30 range.
• The visibility of the date is crucial; because the date was placed on a raised area, it often wore away, making 'full date' examples more valuable.
• Mint location plays a role, with the 1930-S (San Francisco) often carrying a slight premium over the Philadelphia mintage in higher grades.

How to Identify 1930 Buffalo Nickel?

• Verify the 1930 date located on the lower left of the obverse, just above the neck of the Native American profile.
• Check for the designer's initial 'F' located below the date, which signifies James Earle Fraser's work.
• Examine the reverse for the American bison standing on a flat mound, ensuring the 'FIVE CENTS' denomination is clearly visible at the bottom.
• Look for the mint mark (if any) below the 'FIVE CENTS' text; coins from 1930 were minted in Philadelphia (no mark) and San Francisco ('S').

History of 1930 Buffalo Nickel

The Buffalo Nickel, also known as the Indian Head Nickel, was minted by the United States Mint from 1913 to 1938. Designed by James Earle Fraser, the coin aimed to capture the essence of the American West. The Native American depicted on the obverse is a composite of three real-life chiefs, while the bison on the reverse is believed to be based on Black Diamond, a resident of the Bronx Zoo.