In the realm of coin collecting, certain pieces stand out not just for their age but for their rarity and historical significance.
One such coin is the 1926-S Buffalo Nickel, which, despite its unassuming appearance, has captured the attention of collectors worldwide.
Recently, a specimen of this coin was appraised at a staggering $75,000, highlighting its value in the numismatic community.
The 1926-S Buffalo Nickel: An Overview
The Buffalo Nickel, also known as the Indian Head Nickel, was minted from 1913 to 1938. Designed by sculptor James Earle Fraser, the coin features a Native American profile on the obverse and an American bison on the reverse.
The 1926-S variant, minted in San Francisco, is particularly notable due to its low mintage and rarity in high grades.
Key Features
- Obverse: Composite profile of Native American chiefs.
- Reverse: American bison, often associated with “Black Diamond” from the Central Park Zoo.
- Mint Mark: An “S” beneath the “FIVE CENTS” inscription, indicating the San Francisco Mint.
Rarity and Value
The 1926-S Buffalo Nickel had a mintage of only 970,000 coins, making it one of the lowest in the series. Its scarcity, especially in higher grades, contributes significantly to its value.
Value by Grade
| Grade | Estimated Value (USD) |
|---|---|
| Good (G-4) | $33+ |
| Very Good (VG-8) | $50+ |
| Fine (F-12) | $78+ |
| Very Fine (VF-20) | $140+ |
| Extremely Fine (EF-40) | $549+ |
| About Uncirculated (AU-50) | $976+ |
| Mint State (MS-60) | $3,000+ |
| Mint State (MS-65) | Up to $77,000+ |
Notably, a 1926-S Buffalo Nickel graded MS65+ by PCGS with CAC approval sold for $246,750 at an auction in 2019, underscoring its high value among collectors.
Factors Influencing Value
Low Mintage
With fewer than one million coins produced, the 1926-S Buffalo Nickel is a rare find, especially in uncirculated conditions.
Condition Rarity
Most of these nickels were heavily circulated, making high-grade specimens exceedingly rare and valuable.
Historical Significance
As a representation of early 20th-century American coinage, the Buffalo Nickel holds cultural and historical importance, further enhancing its desirability.
The 1926-S Buffalo Nickel exemplifies how a seemingly ordinary coin can hold extraordinary value.
Its combination of low mintage, rarity in high grades, and historical significance make it a coveted piece among collectors.
Whether you’re a seasoned numismatist or a casual enthusiast, discovering such a coin could be akin to finding hidden treasure.
FAQs
How can I identify a 1926-S Buffalo Nickel?
Look for the date “1926” on the obverse side and an “S” mint mark beneath the “FIVE CENTS” inscription on the reverse side.
Why is the 1926-S Buffalo Nickel so valuable?
Its low mintage of 970,000 coins and rarity in high-grade conditions contribute to its high value among collectors.
Where can I get my Buffalo Nickel appraised?
Reputable coin grading services like PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service) and NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Corporation) offer appraisal and grading services.