1926 Buffalo Nickel
Minted in 1926 at the Philadelphia Mint, many collectors may note the absence of a mint-mark on the 1926 Buffalo nickel. This is due to the fact that the Philadelphia Mint was the original Mint for the country, and coins minted there did not begin bearing the “P” mint mark until the 1940s. The 1926 Buffalo nickel is a wonderful, affordable, and accessible coin for any collector. Continue reading to learn more about 1926 Buffalo Nickel Value.
AUCTION RECORD: $16,450 • MS67+
Image source: PCGS
E Pluribus Unum
“E Pluribus Unum” is featured on many coins and is the traditional motto for the United States, and was proposed for the first Great Seal of the United States by John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, and Thomas Jefferson in 1776. The first coins with “e pluribus unum” were dated 1786 and struck in New Jersey, and though the motto had no New Jersey linkage, it was likely an available die that had been created by a designer the previous year for a failed federal coinage proposal. E Pluribus Unum is a Latin phrase, meaning “Out of many comes one.” The phrase can be seen on the reverse of the 1926 Buffalo nickel, just above the Buffalo.
1926 Buffalo Nickel Worth
Finding a 1926 Buffalo nickel is important to many collectors, and an exciting addition to any collection. 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, the designer’s F initial, other inscriptions on the coin, and cent-value. Highly circulated coins go for, on average, around three dollars - making this an affordable coin to kick off a collection. However, a mint condition coin is valued at thirty-five dollars.
Type of coin: Nickel
Year: 1926
Mint Mark: None
Total mintage: 44,693,000
Metal content: 75% Copper, 25% Nickel
Face value: Five Cents
Weight: 5 grams
Edge: Plain
Designer: James Earle Fraser
Diameter: 21.2 millimeters
Rare 1926 Buffalo Nickel Value
The 1926 Buffalo Nickel is part of the Buffalo Nickel series minted from 1913 to 1938. While the 1926 issue itself is not among the rarest in the series, certain mint marks and conditions can enhance its value significantly. Here are the key variants of the 1926 Buffalo Nickel and their approximate values based on condition:
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1926 Buffalo Nickel (No Mint Mark - Philadelphia): The Philadelphia mint produced the highest quantity of Buffalo Nickels in 1926, making this variant relatively common. In circulated conditions, its value is typically a few dollars, but in uncirculated (MS60 and above) condition, it can range from $50 to over $200, with the price increasing significantly for coins in higher uncirculated grades (MS65 and above).
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1926-D Buffalo Nickel (Denver): The 1926-D is considerably more valuable due to its lower mintage and the scarcity of high-grade examples. In good condition, it might fetch around $10 to $20, but in uncirculated condition, the value can jump to between $500 and $2,000 or more, depending on the grade. Coins in near-perfect condition (MS65 and above) are exceedingly rare and can command prices in the tens of thousands.
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1926-S Buffalo Nickel (San Francisco): The 1926-S is known for its low mintage and is one of the key dates of the series, especially in higher grades. In good condition, it can be worth around $20 to $40. However, in uncirculated condition, its value can range dramatically from $2,000 to over $100,000 for coins in MS65 and above, making it one of the most sought-after Buffalo Nickels by collectors.
It's important to note that the values provided are approximate and can vary based on the current market, the coin's exact condition, and the presence of any unique characteristics. The numismatic market is subject to fluctuations, so values can change over time. Collectors often rely on professional grading services to accurately determine the grade and value of their coins. Additionally, the rarity and value of Buffalo Nickels, like the 1926 variants, make them attractive targets for counterfeiters, so verification by a reputable dealer or grading service is recommended for high-value coins.
FAQ
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What is a 1926 Buffalo Nickel? A 1926 Buffalo Nickel is a five-cent piece that was part of the Buffalo Nickel series, minted by the United States from 1913 to 1938. It features the iconic design of a Native American on the obverse and an American bison on the reverse.
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How can I identify a 1926 Buffalo Nickel? You can identify a 1926 Buffalo Nickel by looking at the date below the depiction of the Native American on the obverse side of the coin. Mint marks, if present, are found below the buffalo on the reverse, indicating the mint location: "D" for Denver or "S" for San Francisco. No mint mark indicates it was minted in Philadelphia.
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What makes the 1926 Buffalo Nickel valuable? The value of a 1926 Buffalo Nickel is primarily determined by its mint mark, condition, and rarity. The 1926-S variant, in particular, is considered more valuable, especially in higher grades, due to its lower mintage and scarcity in fine condition.
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What is the most valuable 1926 Buffalo Nickel? The most valuable 1926 Buffalo Nickel is the 1926-S variant, especially in uncirculated or high-grade conditions. Its value can range significantly, with top-grade examples fetching tens of thousands of dollars.
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How much is a 1926 Buffalo Nickel worth? The worth of a 1926 Buffalo Nickel varies widely based on its condition and mint mark. A standard 1926 nickel from Philadelphia in circulated condition might be worth a few dollars, while a 1926-S in uncirculated condition can be worth several thousand dollars.
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Are there any rare errors found in 1926 Buffalo Nickels? While the 1926 Buffalo Nickel series is not particularly known for major errors, collectors should always be on the lookout for minor variations or minting errors that could increase a coin's rarity and value.
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How many 1926 Buffalo Nickels were minted? In 1926, the Philadelphia Mint produced 44,693,000 Buffalo Nickels without a mint mark, Denver Mint produced 5,638,000 with a "D" mint mark, and the San Francisco Mint produced 970,000 with an "S" mint mark, making the 1926-S the least minted and most sought after.
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Is the 1926 Buffalo Nickel made of silver? No, the 1926 Buffalo Nickel is not made of silver. It is composed of 75% copper and 25% nickel, like other coins in the Buffalo Nickel series.
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How do I care for and preserve my 1926 Buffalo Nickel? To care for and preserve your 1926 Buffalo Nickel, handle it by the edges to avoid transferring oils from your skin, store it in a cool, dry place, and use acid-free holders or albums to prevent corrosion and environmental damage.
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Where can I sell my 1926 Buffalo Nickel? You can sell your 1926 Buffalo Nickel to coin dealers, at coin shows, through online auction sites, or to collectors directly. Ensure you have a good idea of its condition and value before selling, and consider getting it professionally graded for higher-value coins.
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