Buffalo Nickels, also known as Indian Head Nickels, are five-cent coins minted in the United States between 1913 and 1938. These coins are cherished by collectors for their distinctive design and historical significance. Over the years, certain Buffalo Nickels have gained remarkable value due to their rarity, unique features, and condition. In this article, we will explore some of the most valuable Buffalo Nickels, ranked from least to most expensive, providing insights into their unique characteristics and what makes them so sought after by numismatists.
30. 1915 D Buffalo Nickel
The 1915 D Buffalo Nickel is valued at approximately $399. Minted in Denver, indicated by the small ‘D’ on the reverse, this coin’s value is primarily attributed to its rarity, especially in uncirculated condition. About a third of the 1915 nickels were produced in Denver, making them less common than their Philadelphia counterparts.
29. 1913 D Line Type Buffalo Nickel
Valued around $454, the 1913 D Line Type Buffalo Nickel features a buffalo standing on a flat plane, a design change aimed at preserving the “five cents” inscription from wear. This version is identified by the small ‘D’ mintmark and is considered rare, especially in higher grades.
28. 1914 S Buffalo Nickel
With an estimated value of $507, the 1914 S Buffalo Nickel was minted in San Francisco, denoted by the ‘S’ mintmark. Less than 4 million of these coins were produced, making them scarce and highly valued among collectors.
27. 1926 D Buffalo Nickel
The 1926 D Buffalo Nickel is valued at approximately $533. Known for its weak strikes, high-quality examples are rare, adding to its desirability among collectors.
26. 1914 D Buffalo Nickel
Valued around $607, the 1914 D Buffalo Nickel is scarce due to its low mintage. Even coins in average condition are considered rare, making high-quality specimens particularly valuable.
25. 1928 S Buffalo Nickel
The 1928 S Buffalo Nickel, minted in San Francisco, carries a value of about $608. Despite a high production number, well-struck coins are rare, making them valuable to collectors.
24. 1925 D Buffalo Nickel
Valued at approximately $847, the 1925 D Buffalo Nickel is especially hard to find in mint condition. This scarcity drives up its value among collectors.
23. 1917 D Buffalo Nickel
The 1917 D Buffalo Nickel is valued around $847. With less than 10 million produced in Denver, high-quality examples are rare, making this coin highly sought after.
22. 1924 D Buffalo Nickel
Valued at approximately $874, the 1924 D Buffalo Nickel is scarce due to its limited production. High-grade examples are particularly rare, adding to its value.
21. 1923 S Buffalo Nickel
The 1923 S Buffalo Nickel carries a value of about $1,028. Produced in San Francisco, its value is attributed to its limited mintage and the presence of high-quality specimens.
20. 1915 S Buffalo Nickel
Valued around $1,134, the 1915 S Buffalo Nickel is rare due to its low mintage. High-quality examples are particularly valuable, making this coin a prized possession for collectors.
19. 1918 D Buffalo Nickel
The 1918 D Buffalo Nickel is valued at approximately $1,181. Its scarcity is due to the fact that only about 20% of the 45 million produced were minted in Denver.
18. 1913 S Line Type Buffalo Nickel
Valued around $1,226, the 1913 S Line Type Buffalo Nickel is rare due to its limited production and design change aimed at preserving the “five cents” inscription.
17. 1917 S Buffalo Nickel
The 1917 S Buffalo Nickel carries a value of about $1,318. Its scarcity is attributed to its low mintage and the difficulty in finding high-quality examples.
16. 1920 D Buffalo Nickel
Valued at approximately $1,593, the 1920 D Buffalo Nickel is rare in high grades due to its low survival rates.
15. 1919 D Buffalo Nickel
The 1919 D Buffalo Nickel is valued around $1,713. Its scarcity is due to its limited production and the difficulty in finding high-quality examples.
14. 1920 S Buffalo Nickel
Valued at approximately $1,981, the 1920 S Buffalo Nickel is rare in high grades due to its low survival rates.
13. 1919 S Buffalo Nickel
FAQ’s
How can I tell if my Buffalo nickel is valuable?
To check if your Buffalo nickel is valuable, look for the date, mint mark (like a small “D” or “S” on the back), and overall condition. Coins with clear dates, rare years, and no damage are usually worth more. Some error nickels are also very valuable, even in poor condition.
What does the mint mark on a Buffalo nickel mean?
The mint mark tells you where the coin was made. A “D” means it was made in Denver, an “S” stands for San Francisco, and no mark means it came from Philadelphia. Coins from Denver or San Francisco are usually rarer and more valuable.
Why do some Buffalo nickels not have a date?
Buffalo nickels wore down easily, especially the date on the front. Over time, many lost their dates completely. These are called “dateless nickels” and are not usually worth much—unless they have an error or rare feature.
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