1913 Proof Buffalo Nickel - Type 1

Coin Details

Auction Record

$96,938 PR68 09-02-2021 Legend Rare Coin Auctions

Description

The 1913 Proof Buffalo Nickel - Type 1 is a proof nickel struck at the Philadelphia Mint, part of the Buffalo Nickels 1913-1938 series. With a mintage of 1,520, this is an extremely rare issue — ranked 2nd of 8 mint variants by mintage, with less than 1% of production. The obverse features a composite Native American portrait combining features of three real tribal chiefs — Iron Tail (Lakota), Two Moons (Cheyenne), and John Big Tree (Seneca) and the reverse displays an American bison (often called Black Diamond after the famous bison at the Bronx Zoo) standing on a mound. First year, with two types: Type I (bison on a mound) and Type II (bison on a flat plain with recessed denomination). As a proof issue, this coin was struck multiple times on specially prepared polished planchets using polished dies, producing mirror-like fields and frosted design elements prized by collectors. Struck at the original U.S. Mint facility, in continuous operation since 1792. Estimated market value is approximately $1.3K. Struck in 75% copper, 25% nickel, weighing 5 grams, 21.2 mm in diameter, with a plain edge. Cataloged as PCGS #3988.