Commonly asked questions and answers.
Why is the Buffalo Nickel considered a popular and iconic coin?
The Buffalo Nickel is highly regarded as a popular and iconic coin due to its unique design and representation of American heritage. The captivating depiction of a Native American chief on the obverse side and the powerful image of an American bison on the reverse side evoke a sense of nostalgia and connection to the American West. The Buffalo Nickel's artistic design, combined with its historical significance, has made it a favorite among collectors and coin enthusiasts.
Are there any valuable or rare Buffalo Nickel varieties?
Yes, there are several valuable and rare varieties of the Buffalo Nickel that collectors seek. One notable example is the 1916 Doubled Die Obverse variety, where the inscriptions on the obverse side appear doubled due to a misalignment during the minting process. Another sought-after variety is the 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel, which exhibits a buffalo with a weakened or missing leg due to excessive die polishing. These varieties, along with other scarce dates and mint marks, can command higher prices in the numismatic market.
What is the composition of the Buffalo Nickel?
The Buffalo Nickel is composed of 75% copper and 25% nickel. It was the first nickel to have a composition that included copper, which gives the coin a distinct reddish-brown appearance. The change in composition was made to address the durability issues experienced with the earlier Liberty Nickel, which had a higher proportion of nickel. The copper-nickel alloy used in the Buffalo Nickel has proven to be more resistant to wear and has contributed to the coin's longevity.
What is the composition of the United States Nickel?
The United States Nickel, commonly known as the five-cent coin, is composed of a combination of 75% copper and 25% nickel. This composition has been in use since 1866, with some variations during World War II when nickel was needed for the war effort. The current nickel alloy provides durability and a distinctive silver appearance.
Who is depicted on the United States Nickel?
The obverse (front) side of the United States Nickel features a portrait of Thomas Jefferson, the third President of the United States, who served from 1801 to 1809. The design is based on an 1800 Rembrandt Peale portrait of Jefferson. The reverse (back) side has gone through various designs over the years, with the current design showcasing Monticello, Jefferson's Virginia estate.
Are there any valuable or rare Nickels?
While most Nickels in circulation are worth their face value, there are a few valuable and rare varieties to look out for. One example is the 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel, which shows a weakened or missing leg on the buffalo due to an overpolished die. This variety is highly sought after by collectors. Additionally, certain dates, mint marks, and special editions, such as the wartime Silver Nickels minted from 1942 to 1945, can have higher numismatic value.
