Minted in Philadelphia, the 1924 Buffalo nickel is an exciting find for a collector. Coins minted in Philadelphia never carried a mint mark until the 1940s, because Philadelphia was the original U.S. Minting location. The other 1924 Buffalo nickels will be marked with a “D” or an “S” for Denver or San Francisco, but the absence of a mint mark means it was minted at the truly historic Philadelphia Mint.
Other Markings on the Buffalo Nickel
While the Buffalo and the Indian Head are the most notable designs on the coin, there are a number of other markings on the coin. During the coin design process, one of the stipulations given to James Earle Fraser was that "the motto, 'In God We Trust', is not required upon this coin and I presume we are agreed that nothing should be upon it that is not required." There is a small “F” under the date, which is the artist’s signature, short for Fraser. Also visible is the word “Liberty” along the obverse with the Indian Head, and “E Pluribus Unum” sandwiched under the “United States of America” on the top of the reverse.
1924 Buffalo Nickel Values
Tons of collectors are on the lookout for the very collectible 1924 Buffalo nickel, which holds an average value of one dollar and fifty cents. However, like many older coins, 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, and cent-value. Keep in mind any 1924 Buffalo nickel without a mint-mark was minted in Philadelphia. A mint condition coin is valued up to seventy-five dollars.
Type of coin: Nickel
Year: 1924
Mint Mark: None
Total mintage: 21,620,000
Metal content: 75% Copper, 25% Nickel
Face value: Five Cents
Weight: 5 grams
Edge: Plain
Designer: James Earle Fraser
Diameter: 21.2 millimeters