Buffalo Nickel (Indian Head) Value
1913–1938 · 5¢ · 75% copper, 25% nickel
Value by Grade
| Grade | Est. Value |
|---|---|
| Poor (P-1) | $0.50 |
| Good (G-4) | $2.00 |
| Fine (F-12) | $10.00 |
| Uncirculated (MS-63) | $60.00 |
| Gem (MS-65) | $180.00 |
| Perfect (MS-70) | $900.00 |
Key Dates & Rare Varieties
| Date/Variety | Why It's Special | Value Range |
|---|---|---|
| 1913-S Type 2 | First year, mound reverse — key early date | $100–$3,000 |
| 1916 DDO | Doubled die obverse — rare variety | $500–$10,000 |
| 1918/7-D | Overdate — highly sought | $500–$8,000 |
| 1937-D | Three-legged variety — die gouge error | $500–$5,000 |
| 1926-S | Key date | $100–$2,000 |
Coin Specifications
- Designer
- James Earle Fraser
- Years
- 1913–1938
- Denomination
- 5¢
- Composition
- 75% copper, 25% nickel
- Diameter
- 21.2 mm
- Weight
- 5 g
Quick Value
Where to Buy/Sell
Buffalo Nickel (Indian Head): History & Background
The Buffalo Nickel (officially the Indian Head Nickel) was designed by sculptor James Earle Fraser. The obverse features a composite portrait of three Native American chiefs. The reverse shows an American bison (Black Diamond, a resident of Central Park Zoo). The coin is famous for its high-relief design that caused rapid date wear — dateless Buffalo Nickels are extremely common and worth very little.
How to Grade a Buffalo Nickel (Indian Head)
Accurate grading is the single most important factor in determining a coin's value. A difference of just a few grade points can mean 10× or more in value. Examine the highest points of the design first — these are where wear appears earliest. For the finest grades, luster, strike quality, and surface preservation all matter. Professional grading by PCGS or NGC adds certainty and typically increases resale value. Read our complete grading guide →