After Version I of the Buffalo Nickel had been retired, and sculptor James Earle Fraser had been contacted many times to revise the design, Variety II became the future of the Buffalo nickel. Not everyone was happy with this design though, most notably new Treasury Secretary, William G. McAdoo. He wanted even more changes to the design, but Fraser refused to cooperate, leaving us with the iconic Buffalo nickel design that is still collected today.
Harsh Criticism of the Buffalo Nickel
When the Buffalo nickel design was first released, it received praise for depicting very American symbols, such as the Indian Head front and the Buffalo reverse. While a new coin design often sparks excitement and intrigue in the public, many critics were displeased with this coin design. The New York Times stated in an editorial that "The new 'nickel' is a striking example of what a coin intended for wide circulation should not be ...it is not pleasing to look at when new and shiny, and will be an abomination when old and dull."
1913-S Buffalo Nickel (Variety II) Values
Only a little over one million Variety II 1913-S Buffalo nickels were minted, due to the testing period of different styles of Buffalo nickels. An average 1913-S Buffalo nickel (Variety II) is worth up to two hundred and fifty dollars. However, like many old and rare coins, the value is directly tied to the condition of the coin. If you’re lucky enough to find one of these unique coins in mint condition, it could be worth almost a thousand dollars!
Type of coin: Nickel
Year: 1913
Mint Mark: San Francisco
Total mintage: 1,209,000
Metal content: 75% Copper, 25% Nickel
Face value: Five Cents
Weight: 5 grams
Edge: Plain
Designer: James Earle Fraser
Diameter: 21.2 millimeters