The 1917 Buffalo Nickel is considered to be an early-series coin in the Buffalo nickel series, and has also been noted as one of the more modern coin designs produced. However, at over a century old, this coin is hard to find in great condition. The Buffalo Nickel is one of the most iconic coins ever produced by the U.S. Mint, with a timeless American design crafted by celebrated sculptor James Earle Fraser.
E Pluribus Unum
“E Pluribus Unum” is featured on many coins and is the traditional motto for the United States, and was proposed for the first Great Seal of the United States by John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, and Thomas Jefferson in 1776. The first coins with E pluribus unum were dated 1786 and struck in New Jersey, and though the motto had no New Jersey linkage, it was likely an available die that had been created by a designer the previous year for a failed federal coinage proposal. E Pluribus Unum is a Latin phrase, meaning “Out of many comes one.”
1917 Buffalo Nickel Value
Like any coin that has survived for over a century, the value of the coin is tied directly to the condition in which it is found. Collectors should look for clear edges on the design, and a clear engraving of the date, mint mark, and five cent-value. Highly circulated coins go for, on average, around eight dollars - making this an affordable coin to kick off a collection. However, uncirculated condition coins are valued at over sixty dollars, an exciting find for any collector.
Type of coin: Nickel
Year: 1917
Mint Mark: No mint mark
Total mintage: 51,424,019
Metal content: 75% Copper, 25% Nickel
Face value: Five Cents
Weight: 5 grams
Edge: Plain
Designer: James Earle Fraser
Diameter: 21.2 millimeters