United States Buffalo Nickel Value Guide

The United States Buffalo Nickel is a cornerstone of American numismatics, introduced in 1913 to enhance the aesthetic appeal of the nation's currency. Its iconic design features a composite profile of three Native American chiefs on the obverse and an American bison on the reverse, making it a favorite for its rugged, historical imagery.

What affects the value of United States Buffalo Nickel?

• The visibility of the date is the primary factor, as many circulated examples have become 'dateless' due to the raised design.
• The specific mint year and mint mark (found under the 'Five Cents' text) can significantly impact rarity and market price.
• Overall surface preservation and the amount of detail remaining on the buffalo's horn and tail.
• The presence of the 1913 'Type 1' (mound) versus 'Type 2' (flat ground) reverse design.

How to Identify United States Buffalo Nickel?

• Check the obverse for the composite profile of Native American chiefs Iron Tail, Two Moons, and John Big Tree.
• Verify the composition of 75% copper and 25% nickel, which gives the coin its distinct silver-grey luster.
• Look for the mint date located on a raised surface on the Native American's shoulder, though be aware this often wears away.
• Inspect the reverse for the American bison standing on either a mound or a flat line, representing the two distinct 1913 varieties.

History of United States Buffalo Nickel

The Buffalo Nickel replaced the Liberty Head nickel in 1913 as part of a drive to beautify American coinage. The obverse depicts a composite profile of three different Native American chiefs: Iron Tail, Two Moons, and John Big Tree. The design was notoriously difficult to mint, often leading to the date wearing away first because it was placed on a raised surface, making dateless examples common in circulated collections.