The 1925 Buffalo nickel is a nice early collectible year, and any coin you can find has great value. It is considered to be an mid-series coin in the Buffalo nickel series, and has also been noted as one of the more modern coin designs produced. However, at almost 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.
Origins of the Buffalo Design
While Americans know them colloquially as buffalo, the mighty creature on the reverse of the nickel is actually an American Bison. The sculptor, James Earle Fraser, stated that the buffalo on the reverse of the Buffalo Nickel was inspired by Black Diamond, an American Bison at the Bronx Zoo. Historians have disputed this, however, since there was no American Bison at the Bronx Zoo, and Black Diamond was housed at the Central Park Zoo. Black Diamond also had significantly different horns than the buffalo represented on the reverse of the Buffalo nickel.
What is a Buffalo Nickel Worth Like the 1925?
Many coin-collectors are on the lookout for a high quality 1925 Buffalo nickel, which holds an average value of three dollars. However, like many older coins, the value is tied to the condition of the coin. Stay on the lookout for clear edges on the Buffalo and Indian head designs, and a clear engraving of the date, “E Pluribus Unum,” and “Liberty,” and cent-value. A mint condition coin is valued up to forty-five dollars.
Type of coin: Nickel
Year: 1925
Mint Mark: None
Total mintage: 35,565,1005
Metal content: 75% Copper, 25% Nickel
Face value: Five Cents
Weight: 5 grams
Edge: Plain
Designer: James Earle Fraser
Diameter: 21.2 millimeters