Buffalo Nickel (Indian Head Nickel)

Country of Origin: United States of America

Year of Issue: 1913 - 1938

Denomination: Five Cents

Composition: 75% Copper, 25% Nickel

Buffalo Nickel (Indian Head Nickel)

Brief Description

The reverse side depicts an American bison (buffalo) standing on a mound, with the inscriptions 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA', 'E PLURIBUS UNUM', and 'FIVE CENTS'. The obverse (not shown) features a profile of a Native American man.

Historical Significance

Designed by James Earle Fraser, this coin was part of a movement to beautify American coinage with distinctly American themes. It celebrated the American West and the heritage of Native Americans and the bison, replacing the Liberty Head nickel.

Estimated Value

$1.00 - $10.00 (Standard circulated condition; rare dates or mint marks can be significantly higher)

Care Instructions

Avoid cleaning the coin with chemicals or abrasives, as this can permanently damage its surfaces and lower its value. Store in a PVC-free plastic holder or acid-free paper envelope to prevent environmental toning or corrosion.

Created At: 2026-02-21T15:18:39.892164