1918 (S) Buffalo Nickel

Strike Type

Coin Details

Year

1918

Denomination

Nickel

Mint Mark

Strike Type

Regular Strike

Series

Buffalo Nickels 1913-1938

Designer

James Earle Fraser

Mintage

4,882,000

Composition

75% Copper, 25% Nickel

Weight

Diameter

21.2mm

Edge

Plain

Value Estimates

$25 - $3,085

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: $125,350
Sold: 1 April 2008
Grade: MS66
Auction house: Bowers & Merena

Description

The 1918 (S) Buffalo Nickel, struck at the San Francisco Mint, is part of the Buffalo Nickels 1913-1938 collection. With a mintage of 4.9 million, this is a less common issue — the lowest mintage among 4 mint variants, representing only 9% 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. The 1918/7-D overdate — a 1917 die re-engraved for 1918 — is one of the most valuable Buffalo Nickel varieties. San Francisco's storied mint, born of the California Gold Rush, has evolved into the primary producer of U.S. proof coins. Estimated market value ranges from $25 to $3.1K 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 #3940.