1915 Buffalo Nickel

Strike Type

Coin Details

Year

1915

Denomination

Nickel

Mint Mark

Strike Type

Regular Strike

Series

Buffalo Nickels 1913-1938

Designer

James Earle Fraser

Mintage

20,986,220

Composition

75% Copper, 25% Nickel

Weight

Diameter

21.2mm

Edge

Plain

Value Estimates

$8.64 - $123

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: $9,600
Sold: 11 February 2024
Grade: MS67+
Auction house: Heritage Auctions

Description

The 1915 Buffalo Nickel, struck at the Philadelphia Mint, is part of the Buffalo Nickels 1913-1938 collection. The U.S. Mint produced 21.0 million examples, making this the highest mintage among 3 variants, accounting for 70% of the year's 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. Produced during the Progressive Era, when President Theodore Roosevelt championed a renaissance in American coin design that produced some of the most beautiful coins ever struck. Philadelphia's mint — the nation's first — has produced coins without interruption since its founding in 1792. Estimated market value ranges from $9 to $123 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 #3927.