Buffalo Nickel Ring Value Guide

ONE-OF-A-KIND SS/Gold/CZ & 1936 American US Buffalo Head ...
Buffalo Nickel Ring
Estimated Value
$75 – $75
Period
1913-1938
Origin
United States
Materials
Nickel coin, gold-plated metal
Category
Coin jewelry

The Buffalo Nickel Ring is a quintessential piece of Americana, repurposing the iconic 1913-1938 Indian Head Nickel into a wearable statement. These rings are highly collectible because they preserve James Earle Fraser's celebrated artwork, featuring a detailed Native American profile and the American bison, symbolizing the spirit of the American West.

What Is Buffalo Nickel Ring Worth?

The typical price range for Buffalo Nickel Ring is $75 - $75 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

  • The specific year and mint mark of the Buffalo Nickel used, as rare dates significantly increase the ring's total value.
  • The condition of the coin's relief, particularly the detail remaining in the bison's horn and the chief's hair braid.
  • The quality and preservation of the gold-toned bezel and the overall craftsmanship of the ring's band.
  • Historical provenance or evidence that the coin was repurposed during the era of its original circulation.

How to Identify Buffalo Nickel Ring?

  • Verify the presence of the Native American chief on the obverse or the American bison on the reverse of the nickel.
  • Check for the designer's 'F' mark below the date, which is characteristic of authentic James Earle Fraser strikes.
  • Examine the bezel setting to ensure it is a gold-plated metal securely housing a genuine US Mint nickel coin.
  • Look for wear patterns consistent with coins minted between 1913 and 1938, as many were circulated before being set into jewelry.

History of Buffalo Nickel Ring

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 features a Native American chief on the obverse and an American bison on the reverse. It is considered one of the most iconic and beloved American coin designs, representing a nostalgic view of the American West. These coins were often repurposed into jewelry due to their distinctive imagery.

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