When looking for a 1928-S Buffalo nickel, collectors should look for a few things. The 1928-S Buffalo nickel features the iconic Buffalo reverse, as well as the Indian Head obverse, and is marked by the small S mint mark at the bottom. Many collectors love the Buffalo nickel series due to its distinctly American design, crafted by James Earle Fraser in 1913, and the demand for one of these beautiful coins is great - meaning they hold quite a bit of value.
Liberty on the Buffalo Nickel
The phrase “Liberty” has been on American five-cent coins since 1883, beginning with the Buffalo nickel’s predecessor, the Liberty nickel. The Liberty nickel featured Lady Liberty with the word “Liberty” written across her crown, and the inclusion of Liberty on the Buffalo nickel may be a tribute to past minting history. As Liberty was one of the founding principles of the United States, it is no surprise that it would be featured so prominently on American coinage.
1928-S Buffalo Nickel Value
The 1929-S Buffalo nickel was minted in lower numbers than its counterparts at the historic San Francisco mint. Because of this, and the rarity of a Buffalo nickel in great condition, this is a highly collectible coin with an average value of around one dollar and seventy-five cents. However, like many older coins, condition is key to the coin’s value - look for clear, distinct engravings and signs of wear to determine a coin’s grade. A mint condition, uncirculated coin is valued at a little over two-hundred and fifty dollars.
Type of coin: Nickel
Year: 1928
Mint Mark: San Francisco
Total mintage: 6,936,000
Metal content: 75% Copper, 25% Nickel
Face value: Five Cents
Weight: 5 grams
Edge: Plain
Designer: James Earle Fraser
Diameter: 21.2 millimeters