The 1931-S Buffalo Nickel stands out as a notable piece in American coin history, primarily due to its low mintage at the San Francisco Mint.
In 1931, the San Francisco Mint produced just over a million of these nickels, marking one of the lowest mintages in the series. For collectors, this coin isn’t just a piece of currency; it’s a snapshot of American heritage and a valuable asset.
A Brief History of the 1931-S Buffalo Nickel
The year 1931 was economically challenging due to the Great Depression, leading to reduced coin production. The San Francisco Mint started with a mere 194,000 nickels in January, while the Denver and Philadelphia Mints produced none. As the year progressed, it became clear that these nickels would be rare.
Alarmed by the low mintage, the Acting Director of the United States Mint, Mary O’Reilly, ordered the San Francisco Mint to increase production. This led to an additional 1,006,000 nickels being minted in November and December, bringing the total to around 1.2 million for the year.
However, the rarity and high-quality production have kept the value of the 1931-S Buffalo Nickel elevated, making it a sought-after coin for numismatists.
Why the 1931-S Buffalo Nickel Is a Favorite Among Collectors?
Despite the increased production at the end of 1931, the 1931-S Buffalo Nickel remains a high-demand collectible. Its scarcity and historical significance make it a fascinating piece, and well-preserved coins in mint condition have sold for thousands.
The coin’s value has increased over time, reflecting both its rarity and the growing interest in American coinage from this era.
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Unique Design Elements of the Buffalo Nickel
The Buffalo Nickel, also known as the Indian Head Nickel, was designed by sculptor James Earle Fraser. The obverse (front) features a composite image of three Native American leaders: Chief Iron Tail, Big Tree, and Two Moons, representing Native American culture and heritage.
The reverse side showcases an American buffalo, inspired by “Black Diamond,” a buffalo that lived at the New York Zoological Garden. The iconic design captures the spirit of early 20th-century America.
Fraser’s design, emphasizing naturalism and authenticity, visually distinguished this coin from other U.S. coins. The coin does not display the motto “In God We Trust,” which is often found on American currency, due to its omission by then-Mint Director George Roberts.
Market Value and Collecting Information
The 1931-S Buffalo Nickel holds strong market value, especially in mint states (uncirculated condition). Coins graded MS67, considered among the best, have fetched prices ranging from $8,000 to over $30,000 at auctions.
Collectors continue to value this coin not only for its rarity but also for its historical and cultural significance. Though some refer to it as a “semi-key” coin, this is debated among collectors, as it doesn’t reach the scarcity level of other more limited editions.
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Key Specifications of the 1931-S Buffalo Nickel
The following table provides an overview of the technical details of the 1931-S Buffalo Nickel:
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Country | United States of America |
| Year of Issue | 1931 |
| Denomination | Five Cents (USD) |
| Mintmark | S (San Francisco) |
| Mintage | 1,200,000 |
| Alloy Composition | 75% Copper, 25% Nickel |
| Weight | 5.0 g |
| Diameter | 21.2 mm |
| Edge | Plain (Smooth) |
| Designer | James Earle Fraser |
| Quality | Business Strike |
For collectors and enthusiasts, the 1931-S Buffalo Nickel represents an era, a piece of artistry, and a valuable addition to any collection. Its story, rarity, and beautiful design make it a significant collectible in American numismatics.
Editorial Note: This article was created through automated technology, with all details verified and polished by our editorial expert.