Did you know that an old nickel could be worth as much as $90,000? One special nickel, the 1917-S Buffalo nickel, sold for this staggering price. But what makes it so valuable? This rare nickel has some unique details that coin collectors love, and these details aren’t easy to find in other coins. Let’s dive into the story behind this coin, its history, and the exact features that make it a true treasure for collectors.
What is the 1917-S Buffalo Nickel?
The 1917-S Buffalo nickel is a five-cent coin featuring the face of a Native American on one side and a buffalo on the other. This specific coin was crafted in San Francisco, making it even more special. Sculptor James Earle Fraser designed this coin to give it a classic American look. It was part of the U.S. Mint’s effort to create beautiful coin designs, which were produced between 1913 and 1938.
Why is This Nickel Worth So Much?
Not every 1917-S Buffalo nickel is worth $90,000, but one recently sold for this high price on August 20, 2023. What made it stand out?
- Sharp Engravings: The details on this coin are exceptionally sharp. Many Buffalo nickels have what experts call “weak strikes,” meaning the design isn’t clear or fades over time. However, this particular coin is an exception.
- Professional Coin Grading: This 1917-S Buffalo nickel received a high grade from the Professional Coin Grading Services (PCGS), a well-known organization that rates coins based on their quality. PCGS graded this coin as MS-67, meaning it has incredibly sharp details and is in excellent condition.
- Rarity and Condition: Only 4 million Buffalo nickels were made in San Francisco in 1917. Over the years, the engravings on most of these coins faded. But this one maintained its original details, making it a rare find.
Unique Details of the 1917-S Buffalo Nickel
Heritage Auctions, which handled the sale of this coin, noted some unique features that make it valuable:
- Full Design Details: Both sides of the coin show clear engravings, including a bold hair braid on the Native American’s face and a defined split tail on the buffalo.
- Sharp Date and “Liberty” Marking: The year “1917” and the word “Liberty” appear clear, which is unusual for this series.
- Metal Composition: This nickel is made from a mix of 75% copper and 25% nickel, which helps give it a lasting quality.
Table: Key Features of the 1917-S Buffalo Nickel
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Mint Location | San Francisco |
| Designer | James Earle Fraser |
| Year of Production | 1917 |
| Metal Composition | 75% Copper, 25% Nickel |
| Notable Characteristics | Sharp engravings, bold details |
| Grading (PCGS) | MS-67 |
| Recent Sale Price | $90,000 |
History Behind the Buffalo Nickel
The Buffalo nickel was introduced as part of the U.S. Mint’s mission to beautify American coins. Sculptor James Earle Fraser designed it in the early 1900s, and it quickly became popular due to its strong American imagery. However, producing these coins wasn’t easy. Their designs would often wear down quickly, especially as they circulated. The U.S. Mint stopped making Buffalo nickels in 1938 due to these production challenges.
Why Collectors Value the 1917-S Buffalo Nickel
Coin collectors highly value coins like the 1917-S Buffalo nickel, especially when they are graded MS-67. This grade indicates the coin is in almost perfect condition with a sharp strike, original luster, and high eye appeal. MS-67 Buffalo nickels are rare, which drives up their value in the collectors’ market.
Conclusion
The 1917-S Buffalo nickel is more than just an old coin—it’s a piece of American history worth $90,000! With sharp engravings and a special design, this coin stands out as a rare treasure. Because of its rarity, excellent condition, and beautiful details, it has captured the attention of collectors worldwide. Who knows? You might even come across one of these rare coins, so be sure to check those old nickels carefully!
FAQ’s
What makes the 1917-S Buffalo nickel worth $90,000?
This coin’s sharp details, high PCGS grade, and rarity make it extremely valuable to collectors.
Who designed the Buffalo nickel?
Sculptor James Earle Fraser designed it to highlight American heritage with Native American and buffalo imagery.
Why were Buffalo nickels discontinued?
Their design was hard to produce, and details faded quickly, leading the U.S. Mint to stop making them in 1938.