Five Cents

Buffalo Nickel

United States · 1913-1938

The coin features a Native American (often identified as a composite portrait of three different chiefs) on the obverse and an American bison (buffalo) on the reverse. The date and the word 'FIVE CENTS' are visible on the reverse below the buffalo.

Country: United States
Year: 1913-1938
Denomination: Five Cents
Metal: 75% Copper, 25% Nickel

This report is AI-generated and can be wrong. Always verify grade, authenticity, and value with a qualified dealer or certified grading service before buying, selling, or insuring.

Identified November 20, 2025More united states coins →

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Overview

Historical significance

The Buffalo Nickel (also known as the Indian Head Nickel) was designed by James Earle Fraser and was minted from 1913 to 1938. It was part of a larger movement to beautify American coinage and introduce more distinctively American themes. The coin's imagery reflects aspects of American West and Native American culture, at a time when these themes were popular.

Estimated value

The value of a Buffalo Nickel varies significantly based on its condition, date, and mint mark. Common dates in circulated condition can range from a few dollars to '"20-30. Key dates and mint marks (like 1913-S Type 2, 1914-D, 1915-S, 1926-S, or 1937-D '3-Legged' variety) in good condition can be worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars. An accurate valuation would require examining the date, mint mark, and overall condition of the specific coin.

Care & preservation

To preserve the coin's value and condition, handle it by the edges to avoid transferring oils from your skin. Store it in a cool, dry place, preferably in a non-PVC coin holder or slab. Avoid cleaning the coin, as this can often decrease its numismatic value by creating hairline scratches or altering its original patina.

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Overview

Historical significance

Estimated value

Care & preservation

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Learn about Buffalo Nickel in the encyclopedia