The 1917-S Buffalo nickel is an exciting part of the Buffalo nickel series. Featuring the iconic Buffalo design on the reverse, with the Indian head on the obverse, it is one of the most beloved coin designs in U.S. Minting history. For those collecting 1917-S Buffalo nickels, there is some difficulty finding well-struck examples, which is the case for virtually all Buffalo nickels. Coin collectors find it difficult to find early series Buffalo nickels in good condition, like the 1917-S Buffalo nickel. Their design, while iconic and beautiful, lends itself to more wear and tear than other coins of the era.
Changes in the Buffalo Nickel
Due to its striking design, the Buffalo nickel was very tough on die machines - with dies being worn out after a relatively low amount of strikes. Its design was also prone to easy wear and tear - even after in 1913, the U.S. Mint had debuted two varieties of the coin. The Buffalo nickel saw minor changes to the design in 1916. The word "LIBERTY" was given more emphasis and moved slightly, although it has been said that the Denver and San Francisco coins often featured weaker strikings of the design.
1917-S Buffalo Nickel Values
The 1917-S Buffalo nickel was minted in low numbers at the historic San Francisco mint. Because of this, and the rarity of a Buffalo nickel in great condition, this is a very valuable and collectible coin with an average value of around twenty-two dollars. Like many older coins, condition is key to the coin’s value - look for clear, distinct engravings and signs of wear to determine a coin’s grade. A mint condition, uncirculated coin is valued at almost seven-hundred dollars.
Type of coin: Nickel
Year: 1917
Mint Mark: No mint mark
Total mintage: 4,193,000
Metal content: 75% Copper, 25% Nickel
Face value: Five Cents
Weight: 5 grams
Edge: Plain
Designer: James Earle Fraser
Diameter: 21.2 millimeters