The Buffalo Nickel coins minted in 1913 and 1938 have gained a lot of popularity among collectors in recent years. Although they may seem simple and accessible to collect, for some it can be a real challenge to get access to them. There are several coins minted during each year and also at different mints. The one that has a very high sale value is the 1916 16 over 16 which can sell for $90,000 in its uncirculated state and if you want to buy it you will have to spend the sum of $125,000. Now, in its circulated state it also has a high value: $6,500 dollars if you want to buy it and $4,000 if you are looking to sell it.
This is just one of the examples that has been established over the last few years, however, there are some key dates and rarities that make these coins unique to collectors. The value of these issues can differ by a few cents, and will depend very much on the dates, the quality and even the state in which they are found, i.e. in circulation or uncirculated.
A brief history of the Buffalo Nickel coins
In the context of the United States Coinage Revival, which was promoted by President Theodore Roosevelt, James Earl Fraser designed the obverse and reverse of this issue. The first part features a rustic design of a Native American looking to the right, this portrait is a composition of various tribal chiefs. The reverse depicts an American buffalo, which many consider to be based on a specimen from the New York Zoo named Black Diamond.
The first coin of the series was produced by the Mint and featured a buffalo on a mound of earth containing the denomination ‘Five cents’. This defect caused the denomination to suddenly disappear. This is a very interesting story that is not often known.
The Coin that is the desire of collectors: know all the details
These coins have remained stable over the last few years, however, there are some key dates and rarities that make these coins unique for collectors. During 2008, these coins reached a record high, but as they do not contain silver or gold, they do not react to fluctuations in the precious metals market.
The series is not a major thrill for those just starting out in collecting, however those at a higher level are openly proud to always seek out Buffalo Nickels. This situation ensures that quality coins are always kept in a viable market, both for sale and for purchase.
Types of Buffalo Nickels: the different specimens according to the specialists
There are some specimens which, in any condition, are worth much more than the standard ones. For this reason, these coins are often adulterated. If you have one of these specimens and you are in the process of selling it, we advise you to seek a specialist to certify the authenticity of your coin. Here are the rarest issues of the Buffalo Nickel series:
- 1913-S Type 2
- 1916/16
- 1918-D 8 over 7
- 1921-S, 1924-S
- 1926-S, 1937-D
- 937-D Three-Legged Buffalo
Coins: its values and prices
There are several coins minted during each year and they are located at different mints. The one that fetches a very high retail value is the 1916 16 over 16 which can sell for around $90,000 in its uncirculated state and if you want to buy it you will have to spend the sum of $125,000. Now, in its circulated state it also has a high value: $6,500 if you want to buy it and $4,000 if you are looking to sell it.
The 1918-D 8 over 7 coin is worth an incredible $36,000 in uncirculated condition and a coin in circulation can be sold for $1,200. While the 1914 4 over 3 can be sold for $3,500 if your coin is in uncirculation.
