1926 (S) Buffalo Nickel
Strike Type
Coin Details
Value Estimates
Values as of May 2026 — estimates reflect typical grades (G-4 through MS-63). Coins in lower or exceptional grades may fall outside this range.
Auction Record
$322,000 MS66 04-01-2008 Bowers & Merena
Description
The 1926 (S) Buffalo Nickel is a nickel produced at the San Francisco Mint as part of the Buffalo Nickels 1913-1938 series. With a mintage of 970,000, this is an extremely rare issue — the lowest mintage among 3 mint variants, representing only 2% of total production. The obverse features a composite Native American portrait combining features of three real tribal chiefs — Iron Tail (Lakota), Two Moons (Cheyenne), and John Big Tree (Seneca) and the reverse displays an American bison (often called Black Diamond after the famous bison at the Bronx Zoo) standing on a mound. The 1926-S is a major condition rarity, very scarce in grades above Fine. Struck at the San Francisco Mint, established during the California Gold Rush and now primarily producing proof and collector coins. Estimated market value ranges from $38 to $11K 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 #3959.
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