Minted in Denver at lower numbers than its Philadelphia counterpart, the 1917-D Buffalo nickel is a beautiful, collectible coin for anyone looking to start, build, or finish their Buffalo nickel series. This coin was only four years into production, and it’s considered an early-series coin of the series - which makes finding a high quality Buffalo nickel incredibly special. With over a hundred years of history behind every 1917-D Buffalo nickel, it’s a great find for any collector.
Where Does the Name Nickel Come From?
Formally known as the five-cent piece, the nickel has not always been called a nickel in American tradition. Before mixed metals were allowed in the Mint, all coins had to be struck from gold, silver, or copper. The five-cent piece was originally called a “half-disme,” and was made with silver. It wasn’t until 1866 that five-cent pieces were made with nickel, which is where the name came from. The Buffalo nickel series is made with a mixture of copper and nickel.
1917-D Buffalo Nickel Value
The 1917-D nickel is a very important piece of minting history, as one of the few nickels minted in Denver. An average 1917-D Buffalo nickel is valued at around eighteen dollars. Like many older coins, the value is tied to the condition of the coin. Collectors should look for clear edges on the design, and a clear engraving of the date, mint mark, and cent-value. These coins are highly sought after, and rare - a mint condition 1917-D Buffalo nickel is worth almost four-hundred dollars.
Type of coin: Nickel
Year: 1917
Mint Mark: Denver
Total mintage: 9,910,000
Metal content: 75% Copper, 25% Nickel
Face value: Five Cents
Weight: 5 grams
Edge: Plain
Designer: James Earle Fraser
Diameter: 21.2 millimeters