United States Buffalo Nickel (Indian Head Nickel)
Coin/Currency · United States Mint
Pattern: Buffalo Nickel (Type II) designed by James Earle Fraser
Type
Coin/Currency
Maker
United States Mint
Material
Cupro-nickel (75% Copper, 25% Nickel). Note: Contains 0% silver.
Dimensions
Diameter: 21.2mm; Thickness: 1.95mm; Weight: 5.0 grams.
Description
The Buffalo Nickel is one of the most iconic pieces of American coinage, featuring a rugged, textured design that moved away from the classical European motifs of previous US currency. The reverse shown displays 'Black Diamond,' a famous bison from the Central Park Zoo, standing on a flat ground line (characteristic of Type II).
Key Features
Distinctive 'Black Diamond' bison imagery; flat ground line (Type II); cupro-nickel luster; lack of a silver hallmark as it is not precious metal.
Material & Composition
Cupro-nickel (75% Copper, 25% Nickel). Note: Contains 0% silver.
Finish & Decoration
Matte-like relief featuring an American Bison on the reverse and a Native American profile on the obverse. Features include the legends UNITED STATES OF AMERICA and E PLURIBUS UNUM.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Reverse features 'FIVE CENTS' below the bison. Mint mark (if present) would be located under the 'FIVE CENTS' text (D for Denver, S for San Francisco, none for Philadelphia).
Construction Details
Die-struck at a US Mint facility using high-pressure steam or electric presses.
Functional Features
Legal tender currency (five-cent denomination); Reeded edge is absent (smooth edge).
Handle & Grip Details
Not applicable (coinage).
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-struck with hand-engraved master dies. The 'sunken' relief of the Five Cents text was a design adjustment to prevent premature wear.
Authentication Indicators
Characteristic typography of the US Mint; die-struck edge characteristics; correct relief depth for a circulated specimen.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States (Philadelphia, Denver, or San Francisco mints).
Era & Period
Early 20th Century American (1913-1938).
Age Estimate
Circa 1913-1938 based on design production lifespan.
Cultural Significance
Symbolizes the American Frontier and westward expansion; considered a masterpiece of the 'Golden Age of American Coinage.'
Condition Notes
Circulated condition with visible wear on the bison's shoulder and hip. Surface shows moderate oxidation and typical 'pocket wear.' Grade: Very Good (VG) to Fine (F) based on remaining tail detail.
Value Estimate
$1.00 - $5.00 for common circulated dates; significantly higher if it is a rare key date (e.g., 1937-D 3-leg) or high-grade uncirculated.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish with silver chemicals as it destroys numismatic value. Store in a PVC-free coin flip or capsule to prevent further oxidation.
Similar Pieces
Liberty Head 'V' Nickel (predecessor); Jefferson Nickel (successor); 2005 Westward Journey 'Bison' Nickel (modern tribute).
Interesting Facts
The nickel's design was so high-relief that the date and denomination wore off quickly in circulation, leading to many 'dateless' nickels found today.