The Buffalo Nickel, officially known as the Indian Head Nickel, is a captivating coin with a rich history and a unique design. Issued by the United States Mint from 1913 to 1938, this coin features a distinctive design that has become an iconic symbol of American numismatic heritage. In this blog post, we will delve into the world of the Buffalo Nickel, exploring its origins, design elements, and the significance of the 1937 issue.

A Brief History of the Buffalo Nickel

The Buffalo Nickel was introduced in 1913 as a replacement for the Liberty Head Nickel, which had been in circulation since 1883. The new design was the brainchild of James Earle Fraser, an American sculptor and artist. Fraser's goal was to create a coin that truly represented the spirit of America, and he turned to the iconic symbols of the American West for inspiration.

The obverse of the Buffalo Nickel features a profile portrait of a Native American, widely believed to be a composite image of several chiefs, including Iron Tail, Two Moons, and John Big Tree. The reverse depicts an American bison, commonly referred to as a buffalo, standing proudly on a mound of dirt. This design captured the essence of the American frontier and paid homage to the country's indigenous heritage.

Design Elements and Symbolism

The Buffalo Nickel is renowned for its intricate and detailed design. Let's take a closer look at its key elements:

• Native American Portrait: The portrait on the obverse is a powerful representation of Native American culture. The proud and stoic expression of the chief captures the dignity and resilience of the indigenous people.
• Buffalo: The buffalo, or American bison, is an iconic symbol of the American West. Its presence on the coin represents the vast plains and the untamed wilderness of the frontier era.
• Engravings: The coin's inscriptions include "LIBERTY" on the obverse, positioned above the Native American's head, and "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" and "E PLURIBUS UNUM" on the reverse, encircling the buffalo.
• Mound and Rays: The reverse design features a mound of dirt beneath the buffalo's hooves, symbolizing the earth and the connection to nature. Above the buffalo, you'll find a series of rays, representing the sun's rays shining down on the bison.

The Buffalo Nickel's design is a masterpiece of American art, combining historical significance with artistic brilliance. It has become a beloved coin among collectors and enthusiasts, not only for its beauty but also for the story it tells about America's past.

The 1937 Buffalo Nickel

The year 1937 holds a special place in the history of the Buffalo Nickel series. It marked the final year of production for this iconic coin, as the United States Mint transitioned to the Jefferson Nickel in 1938. The 1937 Buffalo Nickel is highly sought-after by collectors due to its rarity and historical significance.

During the production of the 1937 Buffalo Nickels, a unique variation occurred. A small number of coins were struck with a double die error, resulting in a doubling of certain design elements. These coins, known as the 1937-D Double Die Obverse Buffalo Nickels, are extremely rare and highly valuable. The "D" mintmark, indicating production at the Denver Mint, adds to the coin's desirability.

Additionally, the 1937 Buffalo Nickel is known for its low mintage, with only 11,147,000 pieces produced. This limited availability makes it a challenging coin to find in high grades, further increasing its appeal to collectors.

Collecting and Grading Buffalo Nickels

Buffalo Nickels, including the 1937 issue, are highly sought-after by collectors for their historical and artistic value. Here are some key considerations for collecting and grading these coins:

• Condition: Buffalo Nickels are known for their intricate details, and the condition of the coin plays a vital role in its value. Coins in higher grades, such as Uncirculated or Mint State, are more desirable and command higher prices.
• Variety Collecting: Besides the 1937-D Double Die Obverse, there are other varieties and errors to collect, such as the 1936-D 3-Over-3, the 1916 Doubled Die Obverse, and the 1918/7-D Overdate. These varieties add an extra layer of excitement for collectors.
• Grading Services: Consider submitting your Buffalo Nickels to reputable third-party grading services like PCGS or NGC. These services provide professional grading and authentication, ensuring the accuracy and integrity of your collection.
• Storage and Display: Invest in high-quality coin storage boxes or albums to protect your Buffalo Nickels. Displaying your collection in a visually appealing manner enhances its overall presentation.

Investing in Buffalo Nickels

Buffalo Nickels, especially the rare and key dates like the 1937 issue, can be an excellent addition to any investment portfolio. Here's why:

• Historical Significance: Buffalo Nickels are an important part of American numismatic history. Investing in these coins allows you to own a piece of history and potentially profit from their increasing demand and limited supply.
• Rarity and Demand: The low mintage and limited availability of certain Buffalo Nickel dates, such as the 1937 issue, create a strong demand among collectors. This demand drives up the value of these coins over time.
• Diversification: Adding Buffalo Nickels to your investment portfolio diversifies your holdings. Numismatic investments offer a unique blend of historical significance and potential financial gains, providing a hedge against traditional market fluctuations.

Preserving and Caring for Your Buffalo Nickels

Proper care and preservation are essential to maintaining the condition and value of your Buffalo Nickels. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Handling: Always handle your Buffalo Nickels with clean, dry hands or use cotton gloves to avoid leaving fingerprints or oils on the coin's surface.
• Storage: Store your Buffalo Nickels in acid-free, archival-quality coin holders or capsules. Avoid using PVC-containing materials, as they can cause damage over time.
• Cleaning: It is generally not recommended to clean Buffalo Nickels. Cleaning can remove patina and original surface details, potentially reducing the coin's value. If cleaning is necessary, consult a professional numismatist for guidance.
• Environmental Factors: Protect your Buffalo Nickels from extreme temperatures, humidity, and direct sunlight. These factors can cause corrosion or damage to the coin's surface.

🌟 Note: Remember, proper care and preservation are essential to maintaining the value and integrity of your Buffalo Nickel collection.

Conclusion

The Buffalo Nickel, with its captivating design and historical significance, continues to captivate collectors and enthusiasts alike. The 1937 issue, in particular, holds a special place in the hearts of numismatic enthusiasts due to its rarity and the double die error variety. Whether you're a collector, investor, or simply fascinated by American history, the Buffalo Nickel offers a unique and rewarding journey into the world of numismatics.

What makes the Buffalo Nickel so iconic?

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The Buffalo Nickel’s iconic status stems from its unique and artistic design, which captures the spirit of the American West and pays tribute to Native American culture. Its detailed portrayal of a Native American chief and an American bison has made it a symbol of American heritage.

How can I identify a genuine Buffalo Nickel?

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Genuine Buffalo Nickels can be identified by examining their design, inscriptions, and mintmarks. Look for the detailed portrait of a Native American on the obverse and the American bison on the reverse. Additionally, check for the correct mintmarks (“D” for Denver or “S” for San Francisco) and the year of issue.

What are the key dates to look for in Buffalo Nickel collecting?

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Some of the key dates in Buffalo Nickel collecting include the 1913-S Type 1, the 1916 Doubled Die Obverse, the ¹⁹¹⁸⁄₇-D Overdate, and the 1937-D Double Die Obverse. These dates are highly sought-after by collectors due to their rarity and unique design variations.

Can I clean my Buffalo Nickels to improve their appearance?

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It is generally not recommended to clean Buffalo Nickels. Cleaning can remove original surface details and patina, potentially reducing the coin’s value. If you believe your coin requires cleaning, consult a professional numismatist for expert advice.

Where can I find more information about Buffalo Nickels and their values?

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There are several reputable resources available for learning more about Buffalo Nickels and their values. You can refer to numismatic guides such as the Red Book (A Guide Book of United States Coins) or consult online resources like PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service) and NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Corporation) for pricing and grading information.