1913 Type 2 Buffalo Nickel: This is one of those types which is rare and valued highly at around $45000.
Sub headings:
- Historical Background of the Buffalo Nickel of 1913
- In 1913, the design of the coin was changed in two stages.
- The 1913 Type 2 Buffalo Nickel was minted by:
- What Value Coin Has Depends Upon Parameters.
- Largest Auction Examples of 1913 Buffalo Nickel.
- How to Preserve and Verify Collectibles: Tips for Collectors Copycats.
- Conclusion: Art History and No Price Tag Associated to It at All.
Historical Background of the Buffalo Nickel of 1913
Buffalo nickel- or Indian Head nickel, as it is commonly called- probably got its name because while it was being struck, it became one of the few rare coins in the greater part of American coinage history. The coin was designed by the much-acclaimed sculptor James Earle Fraser.The obverse side of the coin bears the profile of a Native American, while the reverse has an American bison.
In 1913, the design of the coin was changed in two stages.
The initial Type 1 design had the bison standing on a raised mound of earth, beneath which were inscribed the words “FIVE CENTS.” However, in this type of design, the writing of “FIVE CENTS” began wearing away with time. To correct this, the Type 2 design had “FIVE CENTS” recessed into the base of the coin to add an element of durability.
Minting and Rarity of the 1913 Type 2 Buffalo Nickel
The 1913 Type 2 Buffalo Nickel was minted by:
- Philadelphia Mint (without mint mark).
- Denver Mint (with “D” mint mark).
- San Francisco Mint (with “S” mint mark).
Of these three, San Francisco Mint had the lowest mintage, minting just 1,209,000 coins.
Due to the limited mintage, coins with “S” mint mark are the rarest and the most valuable among coin collectors.
1 Mint Mark: Coins from San Francisco (“S” mint mark) are rated the rarest.
2. Grade: How high a coin is Application: With the designation of Uncirculated, coins have a high worth rating.
3. Clarity of design: If the horns of the buffalo and the hair of Native American are correctly visible, it carries a higher value.
Rare Coins Auctioned Off High-grade 1913-S Type 2 Buffalo Nickel sold for quite some hefty amounts in auctions. One such coin graded MS67 by PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service), for instance, sold for $45,000. Well, this is the extent to which quality coins can really go.
Valuation Table
Mint Mark | Mintage | Good (G-4) | Fine (F-12) | Extremely Fine (EF-40) | Uncirculated (MS-60) |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
None (Philadelphia) | 29,857,186 | $8 | $12 | $17 | $24 |
D (Denver) | 4,156,000 | $65 | $85 | $115 | $217 |
S (San Francisco) | 1,209,000 | $106 | $192 | $278 | $501 |
Colelctor’s
- Authentication: This coin too can be copied considering its rarity and greater value. All prospective buyers should have it certified by the PCGS or NGC grading services.
- Protect: Keep the coin in a climate-controlled environment and minimize handling to avoid alterations in its condition.
- Market Research: Regular checking of market trends and auction results will be useful.
Conclusion: Priceless Confluence of History and Art
This is not just a coin; the 1913 Type 2 Buffalo Nickel has become an icon of American history and art. It’s the product of limited minting, especially from the San Francisco Mint, that makes it so valuable when you consider the journey of its designs. Not only will it appeal to those collectors who cherish it, but it also serves to reach into the past and provides an excellent investment for the future.
FAQs
1. What is the difference between the Type 1 and Type 2 designs?
The Type 2 design has “FIVE CENTS” recessed into the base of the coin, while the Type 1 had it on a raised mound.
2. Where is the mint mark located on a 1913 Buffalo nickel?
On the reverse of the coin, below “FIVE CENTS.
3. Why are San Francisco Mint coins more valuable?
The San Francisco Mint only produced 1,209,000 coins, making them rare and valuable.
4. How can I find out the grade of my 1913 Buffalo nickel?
Have a professional service like PCGS or NGC determine the grade of your coin.