1928 Buffalo Nickel
The 1928 Buffalo nickel features a distinct American design that makes it popular with collectors. The reverse features the timeless buffalo design, for which the coin is called. Above the buffalo are the words “United States of America,” with the phrase “E Pluribus Unum” to its right. The 1928 Buffalo nickel does not feature a mint-mark, as it was minted at the Philadelphia Mint. On the obverse, the words “Liberty” run alongside the Indian head, with the date on the lower left of the coin. Underneath the date is the letter “F,” the initial of the sculptor James Earle Fraser. Continue reading to learn more about 1928 Buffalo Nickel Value.
AUCTION RECORD: $11,500 • MS67
Image source: PCGS
Origins of the Nickel
What is known today as the nickel is formally called the Five-Cent piece, but the name nickel didn’t originate until the Buffalo nickel. Five-Cent pieces were originally struck from silver, and were called the half-disme, pronounced ‘half-dime. Congress would eventually change the laws so that U.S. coins would not need to be struck from solid gold, silver, or copper, which allowed mixed metal alloys to be mass produced as coins. Since the Buffalo nickel is made up partly of nickel, the nickname stuck, and we still call Five-Cent coins the nickel today.
1928 Buffalo Nickel Value
Like any coin that has survived for almost a century, the value of the 1928 Buffalo nickel is tied directly to the condition in which it is found. Collectors should look for clear edges on the design, and a clear engraving of the date, the various inscriptions on the coin, and cent-value. Highly circulated coins go for, on average, around one dollar and twenty-five - making this a very affordable coin to kick off a collection. However, uncirculated condition coins are valued at thirty-five dollars, which makes this an exciting find for any collector.
Type of coin: Nickel
Year: 1928
Mint Mark: None
Total mintage: 23,411,000
Metal content: 75% Copper, 25% Nickel
Face value: Five Cents
Weight: 5 grams
Edge: Plain
Designer: James Earle Fraser
Diameter: 21.2 millimeters
Rare 1928 Buffalo Nickel Coins
The 1928 Buffalo Nickel is a part of the broader Buffalo Nickel series minted from 1913 to 1938. While the 1928 edition itself is not among the rarest in the series, certain mint marks and conditions can significantly affect its value. Here's a look at the variants of the 1928 Buffalo Nickel and their approximate values based on condition:
1. 1928 Buffalo Nickel (No Mint Mark - Philadelphia)
- Circulated Condition: Values for circulated coins typically range from $1 to $3.
- Uncirculated Condition: In MS60 to MS65 grades, values can range from $30 to over $150, with premiums for coins in higher uncirculated grades.
2. 1928-D Buffalo Nickel (Denver)
- Circulated Condition: These can be worth around $2 to $10 in the lower grades.
- Uncirculated Condition: Uncirculated examples (MS60 and above) can fetch between $100 and $600, with the price increasing significantly for coins in MS65 and higher grades.
3. 1928-S Buffalo Nickel (San Francisco)
- Circulated Condition: In good to very fine condition, the 1928-S can range from $3 to $20.
- Uncirculated Condition: Uncirculated coins are much more valuable, with prices ranging from $200 to $1,000 or more, depending on the grade. Coins in MS65 and higher are particularly rare and sought after, commanding premium prices.
It's important to note that the values mentioned 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. For the most accurate and up-to-date valuation, coins should be professionally graded by reputable services like PCGS or NGC. Additionally, the rarity and value of Buffalo Nickels, like the 1928 variants, make them attractive targets for counterfeiters, so verification by a reputable dealer or grading service is recommended for high-value coins.
FAQ
-
What is a 1928 Buffalo Nickel? A 1928 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.
-
How can I identify a 1928 Buffalo Nickel? You can identify a 1928 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.
-
What makes the 1928 Buffalo Nickel valuable? The value of a 1928 Buffalo Nickel is primarily determined by its mint mark, condition, and rarity. The 1928-S variant, especially in higher grades, is considered more valuable due to its lower mintage and scarcity in fine condition.
-
What is the most valuable 1928 Buffalo Nickel? The most valuable 1928 Buffalo Nickel is the 1928-S variant in uncirculated or high-grade conditions. Its value can range significantly, with top-grade examples fetching higher prices due to their rarity.
-
How much is a 1928 Buffalo Nickel worth? The worth of a 1928 Buffalo Nickel varies widely based on its condition and mint mark. A standard 1928 nickel from Philadelphia in circulated condition might be worth a few dollars, while a 1928-S in uncirculated condition can be worth several hundred dollars.
-
Are there any rare errors found in 1928 Buffalo Nickels? While the 1928 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.
-
How many 1928 Buffalo Nickels were minted? In 1928, the Philadelphia Mint produced 23,411,000 Buffalo Nickels without a mint mark, Denver Mint produced 6,436,000 with a "D" mint mark, and the San Francisco Mint produced 6,936,000 with an "S" mint mark.
-
Is the 1928 Buffalo Nickel made of silver? No, the 1928 Buffalo Nickel is not made of silver. It is composed of 75% copper and 25% nickel, like other coins in the Buffalo Nickel series.
-
How do I care for and preserve my 1928 Buffalo Nickel? To care for and preserve your 1928 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.
-
Where can I sell my 1928 Buffalo Nickel? You can sell your 1928 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.
Learn more about biblical coins, classic rare coins, ancient coins, silver eagles, commemorative us coins, half dollar, rare quarters, Indian head penny, Lincoln cents, what makes a 1964 kennedy half dollar rare, rare state quarters, how much is a quarter worth, 1943 penny value, 1964 half dollar value, top 100 pennies worth money, 1943 penny, walking liberty half dollar, 1934 buffalo nickel value, 1926 buffalo nickel value.