The 1913-D Buffalo Nickel, also called the Indian Head Nickel, isn’t just a piece of pocket change—it’s a window into America’s rugged past. Minted during the frontier era and designed by James Earle Fraser, this coin is both a work of art and a historical tribute.
It might’ve cost just five cents back then, but today? One high-grade version sold for a jaw-dropping $99,875. Let’s look into why this nickel is such a hot ticket for collectors.
Origins
When the U.S. Mint introduced the Buffalo Nickel in 1913, the goal was clear: create a coin that captured the American spirit. James Earle Fraser delivered big time. His obverse design combined features of three real Native American chiefs, while the reverse displayed a powerful bison symbolizing strength and wild beauty.
Fraser didn’t just design a coin he told a story. And the Denver Mint (marked with a small “D”) played a key role in producing these historical gems, minting over 17 million of them that year.
Design
The detail on this coin is where it truly shines. On one side, the Native American’s face is deeply expressive, with every feather and wrinkle carved with purpose. On the flip side, the buffalo stands proudly atop a raised mound—what collectors call the “Type 1” reverse. This design was only used in early 1913 before being replaced due to wear issues in circulation.
Here’s a quick look at its specs:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Designer | James Earle Fraser |
| Composition | 75% Copper, 25% Nickel |
| Diameter | 21.20 mm |
| Weight | 5.00 grams |
| Edge | Plain |
| Mint Mark | “D” for Denver |
| Year Minted | 1913 |
| Type | Type 1 Reverse |
| Total Mintage | 17,826,000 |
Value
Even though millions were minted, most ended up in daily use—banged up in pockets and worn thin. That’s what makes high-quality survivors so valuable. In fact, a PCGS-graded 1913-D Type 1 Buffalo Nickel once sold for nearly $100,000.
Collectors look for strong details, no wear, and a clean strike. If all three align, the coin becomes more than metal—it becomes a masterpiece.
Rarity
While it’s not rare in terms of mintage, condition is everything. Most surviving coins show heavy wear. But those that were preserved, tucked away in collections or forgotten drawers, are gold mines for collectors.
High-grade examples certified by services like PCGS or NGC can fetch thousands—especially ones from Denver’s first-year batch like PCGS #3982.
Dealers
Finding or selling one of these treasures? Knowing where to go helps. Several dealers specialize in rare coins, and many are state-specific.
| State | Dealers Available |
|---|---|
| Arkansas | Penny & Rare Coins Dealer |
| Alaska | Alaska Coins Dealers List |
| Arizona | Arizona Coins Dealers List |
So, what’s the takeaway? The 1913-D Buffalo Nickel isn’t just another old coin. It’s part art, part history, and entirely collectible. If you’ve got one in pristine condition, you’re holding a piece of American legacy—and maybe a small fortune. That’s the magic of numismatics: the blend of beauty, history, and cold hard value.
FAQs
Why is the 1913-D Buffalo Nickel valuable?
It’s valuable due to its design, age, rarity in high grade, and historical significance.
What does the D mean on the Buffalo Nickel?
The ‘D’ stands for the Denver Mint where the coin was produced.
How many 1913-D Buffalo Nickels were made?
A total of 17,826,000 were minted in Denver in 1913.
Who designed the Buffalo Nickel?
James Earle Fraser designed both the obverse and reverse of the coin.
What makes Type 1 Buffalo Nickels unique?
They feature a raised mound under the buffalo, used only early in 1913.
