Indian Head Buffalo Nickel Value Guide

The Indian Head Buffalo Nickel, minted from 1913 to 1938, is a quintessential piece of American numismatic history designed by sculptor James Earle Fraser. It is highly collectible for its rugged, artistic depiction of a composite Native American chief and the iconic bison modeled after Black Diamond from the Central Park Zoo. This 75% copper and 25% nickel coin remains a favorite among hobbyists for its celebration of Western heritage.

What Is Indian Head Buffalo Nickel Worth?

The typical price range for Indian Head Buffalo Nickel is $1 - $2 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• Condition and wear, particularly on the date and the buffalo's horn, which are often the first details to rub smooth.
• The specific mint year and mint mark (D for Denver, S for San Francisco, or none for Philadelphia) found under the 'FIVE CENTS' text.
• Rarity of specific varieties, such as the famous 1937-D 'Three-Legged Buffalo' error.
• The presence of a clear, readable date, as many Buffalo Nickels have dates that have worn away completely over time.

How to Identify Indian Head Buffalo Nickel?

• Look for the designer's initial 'F' located under the date on the obverse side.
• Identify the two distinct types from 1913: Type 1 features the bison on a mound, while Type 2 shows the bison on a flat line.
• Check the reverse for the 'FIVE CENTS' inscription located directly below the bison.
• Examine the obverse for the composite profile of Chiefs Iron Tail, Two Moons, and John Big Tree.

History of Indian Head Buffalo Nickel

Designed by sculptor James Earle Fraser and first minted in 1913, this coin was intended to celebrate American heritage. The Native American profile is a composite of three different chiefs: Iron Tail, Two Moons, and John Big Tree. The buffalo was modeled after Black Diamond, a resident of the Central Park Zoo. The series ended in 1938 when it was replaced by the Jefferson Nickel.