1913 Buffalo Nickel Variety I Value
In 1911, Franklin MacVeagh, the Treasury Secretary, received a letter from his son Eames - and Eames posed a question that hadn’t been asked by the Treasury or the U.S. Mint. Why not beautify the nickel? Soon after this letter, Deputy Secretary Abram Andrews announced that a new nickel design would be commissioned for the U.S. Mint. They then reached out to sculptor James Earle Fraser to commission the soon to be iconic Buffalo nickel.
AUCTION RECORD: $79,313 • MS68+
Image source: PCGS
Coin Design Controversy
Deputy Secretary Andrews was greatly displeased with the Lincoln penny that was released in 1909, and had originally reached out to Fraser to create a new design for the One Cent piece. However, due to a previous act of Congress, cent designs could only be altered every twenty-five years. Fraser was anxious to create a new coin for the U.S. Mint, and his enthusiasm to design a new coin was part of the reason the Buffalo nickel came to fruition.
1913 Buffalo Nickel (Variety I) Value
The first Buffalo nickel struck in Philadelphia certainly carries a lot of historical value as well as financial value for collectors. Like all Buffalo nickels, the condition of the coin is the most important factor when determining value, due to the coin’s unique predisposition to wear and tear. While the average cost sits around twelve dollars for a Variety I 1913 Buffalo Nickel, an uncirculated coin is valued up to forty-five dollars. This is a must have for any discerning coin collector.
Type of coin: Nickel
Year: 1913
Mint Mark: No mint mark
Total mintage: 30,992,000
Metal content: 75% Copper, 25% Nickel
Face value: Five Cents
Weight: 5 grams
Edge: Plain
Designer: James Earle Fraser
Diameter: 21.2 millimeters
FAQ
1. What is a 1913 Buffalo Nickel (Variety I)?
The 1913 Buffalo Nickel (Variety I) refers to the first design type of the Buffalo Nickel series, minted in 1913. It features the iconic Native American profile on the obverse and a buffalo (bison) on the reverse.
2. What are the key features of the 1913 Buffalo Nickel (Variety I)?
- Obverse: The obverse features the profile of a Native American facing right, believed to be a composite of several Native American chiefs.
- Reverse: The reverse features an American buffalo (bison) standing on a mound, with the words "FIVE CENTS" below the mound and the mintmark to the right of the mound.
3. What makes the 1913 Buffalo Nickel (Variety I) different from later varieties?
The Variety I 1913 Buffalo Nickel has a distinct design difference on the reverse. The words "FIVE CENTS" are raised and in a straight line below the mound. In Variety II, the words are recessed and in a curved line.
4. How rare is the 1913 Buffalo Nickel (Variety I)?
While not as rare as some other dates and varieties of Buffalo Nickels, the 1913 Variety I is still sought after by collectors, especially in higher grades. Its value depends on factors such as condition, mintmark, and overall scarcity.
5. What is the value of a 1913 Buffalo Nickel (Variety I)?
The value of a 1913 Buffalo Nickel (Variety I) varies based on its condition and other factors. In circulated condition, it may be worth around $1 to $10. In higher grades, it can be worth significantly more, with some examples selling for hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
6. Where can I buy a 1913 Buffalo Nickel (Variety I)?
You can buy a 1913 Buffalo Nickel (Variety I) from coin dealers, online marketplaces, coin shows, and auctions. It's important to ensure the coin's authenticity and condition when purchasing.
7. How can I tell if my 1913 Buffalo Nickel is a Variety I or Variety II?
To determine if your 1913 Buffalo Nickel is a Variety I or Variety II, you can look at the reverse of the coin. In Variety I, the words "FIVE CENTS" are raised and in a straight line below the mound. In Variety II, the words are recessed and in a curved line.
8. Is the 1913 Buffalo Nickel (Variety I) valuable?
Yes, the 1913 Buffalo Nickel (Variety I) can be valuable, especially in higher grades. Collectors value this coin for its historical significance, design, and relative scarcity compared to later dates and varieties.
9. What is the history behind the Buffalo Nickel series?
The Buffalo Nickel series was minted from 1913 to 1938 and was designed by James Earle Fraser. The coin was intended to showcase the beauty of the American West and Native American culture.
10. Are there any known errors or varieties in the 1913 Buffalo Nickel (Variety I)?
While the Variety I 1913 Buffalo Nickel does not have any major errors or varieties, minor die variations and differences in strike quality can affect the coin's value and appeal to collectors.