Not many coins have had such a long lasting impact with collectors as the 1927-S Buffalo nickel. Minted in San Francisco in 1927, these coins were distributed across the still-novel American West. Due to the mystery of the San Francisco Mint, these coins were often hoarded by collectors of the time, which has brought the value of any S-marked Buffalo nickels up higher than their counterparts. Coin collectors are especially on the hunt for the 1927-S Buffalo nickel due to its exceptional value and low mintage numbers.
1927 in American History
1927 was a groundbreaking year for the United States, as Charles Lindbergh completed the first solo nonstop trans-Atlantic flight, from New York to Paris in the Spirit of St. Louis. Other historic moments from that year include the creation of what would be the Federal Communication Commission, and the first transatlantic phone call from New York City to London. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences was founded, and public interest in movies switched from silent films to “talkies.” Across the United States, people were enamored with movies and news clips, putting their nickels to good use.
1927-S Buffalo Nickel Value
Due to the low mintage of this coin at the San Francisco Mint, the 1927-S Buffalo nickel is the stand out coin of this year. When looking at coin value, it's important to take the coin’s condition into consideration. While the average 1927-S Buffalo nickel will go for one dollar and fifty cents, an uncirculated coin can go for almost nine-hundred dollars. Uncirculated coins are noted for their absolute lack of wear and tear, clear engravings, and original shine.
Type of coin: Nickel
Year: 1927
Mint Mark: San Francisco
Total mintage: 3,430,000
Metal content: 75% Copper, 25% Nickel
Face value: Five Cents
Weight: 5 grams
Edge: Plain
Designer: James Earle Fraser
Diameter: 21.2 millimeters