The U.S. Mint has produced some of the highest quality and most iconic coins the world over, and the 1923 Buffalo nickel is no exception. Fewer coin series have had the worldwide appeal as the Buffalo nickel series, which was first designed in 1913, and are now a much sought after coin-type for collectors. Collectors love this coin for the American history it represents, and for its stunning and uniquely American design. Even at the time, the new idea of assembling coin collections that included an example of each date and mintmark issue was just beginning to take hold and gain in popularity.
1922 Mint Hiatus
In 1922, the U.S. Mint did not strike any Buffalo nickels at any of their minting locations. This is believed to be due to an economic downturn during this time due to the Spanish Flu of 1918, which put coin striking on the back-burner. The director of the Mint, Frank Scoby, received hundreds of letters from outraged citizens who wanted new Buffalo nickels minted. Many scholars note that during 1922, many other coins besides the Buffalo nickel were produced, leaving lots of questions for coin collectors today.
1923 Buffalo Nickel Values
Finding a 1923 Buffalo nickel in good condition is important to many collectors. Like any coin as old as this one, the value is tied to the condition of the coin. Stay on the lookout for clear edges on the design, and a clear engraving of the date, any inscriptions, and cent-value. Highly circulated coins go for, on average, around two dollars - making this an affordable and accessible coin to kick off a collection. A mint condition coin is valued at sixty-five dollars.
Type of coin: Nickel
Year: 1923
Mint Mark: No mint mark
Total mintage: 35,715,000
Metal content: 75% Copper, 25% Nickel
Face value: Five Cents
Weight: 5 grams
Edge: Plain
Designer: James Earle Fraser
Diameter: 21.2 millimeters