What Years Were Buffalo Nickels Made

What Years Were Buffalo Nickels Made? A Comprehensive Guide

The Buffalo nickel, officially known as the Indian Head nickel, holds a special place in the hearts of coin collectors. Its striking design, featuring a majestic American bison on the reverse and a profile of a Native American on the obverse, makes it instantly recognizable and highly sought after. But for those new to numismatics, a common question arises: what years were Buffalo nickels made? This comprehensive guide will delve into the history of the Buffalo nickel, detailing its production years, mintage figures, and key variations to help you navigate the world of these iconic coins.

The History of the Buffalo Nickel: From Design to Demise

The Buffalo nickel's story begins in the early 20th century. Tired of the Liberty Head nickel's design, the United States Mint sought a new, more evocative image. The renowned sculptor James Earle Fraser was selected to create the design, and his masterpiece emerged in 1913.

The Design's Significance

Fraser's design wasn't merely aesthetic; it carried significant symbolic weight. The obverse depicted a profile of a Native American, often believed to be a composite of several different tribes. This representation sought to honor the indigenous peoples of the Americas, a significant departure from previous coin designs. The reverse showcased a powerful American bison, a symbol of the nation's untamed western frontier.

Production Years and Mintage Figures

The Buffalo nickel enjoyed a relatively short production run compared to other US coins. It was minted from 1913 to 1938, a total of 26 years. However, the mintage figures varied significantly throughout these years, influenced by factors such as economic conditions and the changing demand for coinage. Some years boast exceptionally high mintages, while others produced significantly fewer coins, making certain years more valuable to collectors.

Here's a breakdown of the production years and a general overview of mintage:

• Early Years (1913-1920s): These years typically saw moderate to high mintages, with some years showing exceptionally high numbers. These coins are generally more common and less expensive than later years.

• Mid-Years (1920s-1930s): The mintages for these years were generally lower than those from earlier in the coin's production run.

• Late Years (1930s): The mintage figures dropped significantly in the final years, leading to higher values for these Buffalo nickels among collectors.

It's crucial to note that these are generalized observations. Specific mintage figures for each year can be found through various numismatic resources, including professional coin grading services like PCGS and NGC. These detailed figures are vital for assessing the rarity and value of individual Buffalo nickels.

Key Variations and Error Coins

Beyond the standard issue Buffalo nickels, several variations and error coins exist, significantly impacting their value. These include:

1. Proof Coins:

Proof coins are struck with special dies and planchets, resulting in a highly polished, mirror-like surface. Proof Buffalo nickels are rarer and more valuable than business strike coins.

2. Mint Marks:

Most Buffalo nickels bear a mint mark, a small letter indicating where the coin was struck (Philadelphia, Denver, or San Francisco). The presence or absence of a mint mark, as well as the mint mark itself, can significantly impact a coin's value.

3. Die Varieties:

Die varieties are variations in the dies used to strike the coins. These variations can be subtle, but they can significantly increase a coin's value to collectors. Many subtle variations exist amongst the different years of Buffalo nickel production.

4. Error Coins:

Error coins are those with striking errors, such as off-center strikes, double strikes, or brockages. These errors can dramatically increase a coin's value, making them highly sought after by collectors specializing in error coins. These errors are often subtle and require expert examination to properly identify.

Grading and Value of Buffalo Nickels

The value of a Buffalo nickel is highly dependent on its condition, or grade. Professional coin grading services use a standardized scale, such as the Sheldon Scale, to assess a coin's condition, considering factors like wear, scratches, and surface imperfections. Higher grades correspond to better condition and higher values. Uncirculated coins, those that have never been in circulation, command the highest prices.

Factors that influence a Buffalo nickel's value:

• Year: As mentioned earlier, certain years, particularly those with lower mintages, are more valuable than others.

• Grade: The better the coin's condition, the higher its value. Uncirculated examples are significantly more valuable than circulated coins.

• Mint Mark: The presence of a mint mark, especially the rarer mint marks, can significantly affect the value.

• Variations and Errors: Proof coins, die varieties, and error coins can increase a coin's value substantially.

Finding and Collecting Buffalo Nickels

For those interested in collecting Buffalo nickels, several avenues exist:

• Coin Dealers: Local coin dealers can offer a range of Buffalo nickels, from common to rare examples. They can help you identify and grade your coins.

• Online Auctions: Online auction sites provide access to a wide selection of Buffalo nickels from across the country and the world. However, it is vital to exercise caution and research sellers thoroughly to avoid scams.

• Coin Shows: Coin shows offer a great opportunity to see a wide range of Buffalo nickels, meet fellow collectors, and potentially find rare specimens.

• Inherited Collections: Many people stumble upon Buffalo nickels through inherited family collections. It's advisable to have these coins professionally assessed to determine their value.

Conclusion: A Legacy in Silver

The Buffalo nickel remains a beloved and sought-after coin among collectors, thanks to its beautiful design and fascinating history. Knowing the production years, mintage figures, and various key characteristics is vital for anyone interested in appreciating, collecting, or investing in these iconic pieces of American numismatic history. The journey of discovering and collecting Buffalo nickels offers a compelling blend of history, artistry, and the thrill of the hunt, making it a rewarding experience for hobbyists and serious collectors alike. Remember to always research thoroughly and consider professional grading to accurately determine the value of your finds. Remember to always handle your coins with care to preserve their condition and increase their long-term value.