1913 (S) Buffalo Nickel - Type 1

Strike Type

Coin Details

Year

1913

Denomination

Nickel

Mint Mark

Strike Type

Regular Strike

Series

Buffalo Nickels 1913-1938

Designer

James Earle Fraser

Mintage

2,105,000

Composition

75% Copper, 25% Nickel

Weight

Diameter

21.2mm

Edge

Plain

Value Estimates

$289 - $1,523

Values as of May 2026, from published price guides and, in some cases, recorded auction sales. For most coins the range runs from a well-worn example (around G-4) to an uncirculated one, but individual coins can sell for more or less depending on grade, eye appeal and demand. Compare recent sales of similar coins for a closer estimate.

Auction Record

Price realized: $16,800
Sold: 25 April 2021
Grade: MS67+
Auction house: Heritage Auctions

Description

The 1913 (S) Buffalo Nickel - Type 1, struck at the San Francisco Mint, is part of the Buffalo Nickels 1913-1938 collection. With a mintage of 2.1 million, this is a scarce issue — ranked 2nd of 6 mint variants by mintage, with 3% of production. The obverse features a Native American portrait that James Earle Fraser described as a composite of several chiefs, including Iron Tail (Lakota) and Two Moons (Cheyenne), and the reverse displays an American bison, traditionally identified as Black Diamond of New York's Central Park menagerie, standing on a raised mound. First year, with two types: Type I (bison on a mound) and Type II (bison on a flat plain with recessed denomination). Coined at the San Francisco Mint, which transitioned from Gold Rush-era production to its modern role producing proof and collector issues. Estimated market value ranges from $289 to $1.5K depending on grade and condition. Struck in 75% copper, 25% nickel, weighing 5 grams, 21.2 mm in diameter, with a plain edge. Cataloged as PCGS #3917.