1916 Buffalo Nickel
Strike Type
Coin Details
Value Estimates
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
- $19,200
- Sold
- Grade
- MS67+
- Auction house
- Stack's Bowers
Description
Part of the Buffalo Nickels 1913-1938 series, the 1916 Buffalo Nickel is a nickel from the Philadelphia Mint. The U.S. Mint produced 63.5 million examples, making this the highest mintage among 3 variants, accounting for 72% 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 $8 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 #3930.
External References
Error Varieties(5)
1916 Atypical Die Clash ADC-5C-1916-01
1916 Doubled Die Obverse DDO-002
1916 Doubled Die Obverse WDDO-001 / DDO-001
1916 Doubled Die Reverse DDR-001
1916 Typical Die Clash TDC-5C-1916-01
Other Strike Types in This Series
Collector Essentials
Tools and references for building and protecting your coin collection.
10x-20x Jeweler's Loupe
A must-have for examining coin details, mint marks, and surface quality
Red Book — Guide to U.S. Coins
The essential annual reference for U.S. coin values, history, and mintages
Coin Albums & Storage
Archival-quality albums and holders to protect and display your collection
USB Digital Microscope
Capture detailed images for documentation and community submissions
As an Amazon Associate, NumisDex earns from qualifying purchases.