Buffalo Nickel

Brief Description

The obverse of the coin features a right-facing portrait of a Native American chief. The word "LIBERTY" is visible above and to the right of the portrait. The date "1936" is near the bottom left, though partially obscured. The coin shows significant wear and some corrosion. The reverse, not visible in the provided image, typically depicts an American bison (buffalo).

Historical Significance

The Buffalo Nickel (also known as the Indian Head Nickel) was designed by James Earle Fraser and minted from 1913 to 1938. It replaced the Liberty Head nickel and was part of a broader movement in American coinage to beautify designs and feature more distinctly American themes, rather than classical European ones. The Native American portrait is a composite of three different chiefs, and the bison on the reverse is believed to be Black Diamond, a well-known buffalo from the Central Park Zoo.

Estimated Value

Given the heavily worn condition and visible corrosion/damage, the estimated value for a 1936 Buffalo Nickel would be at the lower end, likely between "$0.25" and "$1.00" for its metal content and as a damaged circulated coin. If there were no damage, a heavily circulated 1936 nickel might fetch a few dollars, but this specific coin's condition is poor.

Care Instructions

Do not attempt to clean this coin, as cleaning can further devalue it and remove any historical patina. Store the coin in a dry, stable environment, preferably in a non-PVC coin holder or sleeve to prevent further corrosion or reactions with other materials. Handle by the edges only to avoid adding oils and dirt from your skin.

Created At: 2025-09-24T21:17:13.148055