1913 (S) Buffalo Nickel - Type 2

Strike Type

Coin Details

Year

1913

Denomination

Nickel

Mint Mark

Strike Type

Regular Strike

Series

Buffalo Nickels 1913-1938

Designer

James Earle Fraser

Mintage

1,209,000

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: $49,938
Sold: 22 February 2013
Grade: MS67
Auction house: Stack's Bowers

Description

Part of the Buffalo Nickels 1913-1938 series, the 1913 (S) Buffalo Nickel - Type 2 is a nickel from the San Francisco Mint. With a mintage of 1.2 million, this is a scarce issue — the lowest mintage among 6 mint variants, representing only 2% of total 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 flat ground. 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 #3923.