1934 Buffalo Nickel Value Guide

The 1934 Buffalo Nickel is a quintessential icon of American West numismatics, featuring a composite profile of three Native American models and the famous bison Black Diamond. Designed by sculptor James Earle Fraser, this specific year represents the later period of the series, making it a staple for collectors of Depression-era coinage.

What affects the value of 1934 Buffalo Nickel?

• The presence of a mint mark from Denver (D) or San Francisco (S) can influence the base value.
• Overall strike quality and the level of detail remaining on the buffalo's horn and the Native American's braid.
• Surface condition, specifically the absence of heavy scratches, corrosion, or environmental damage.
• Market demand for coins in higher grades, though standard circulated examples typically range from $2.00 to $2.20.

How to Identify 1934 Buffalo Nickel?

• Verify the 1934 date located on the lower left of the obverse, just below the Native American profile.
• Check for the 'D' or 'S' mint mark below the buffalo on the reverse; no mark indicates the Philadelphia mint.
• Examine the composition, which should be a consistent blend of 75% copper and 25% nickel.
• Look for the designer's initial 'F' located under the date on the obverse side.

History of 1934 Buffalo Nickel

Designed by sculptor James Earle Fraser, the Buffalo Nickel was minted from 1913 to 1938. Fraser used three different Native American models to create the composite profile on the obverse. The reverse features Black Diamond, a famous bison from the Central Park Zoo. This coin is a quintessential icon of American West numismatics.