Minted at the historic Denver Mint in 1929, this famous American coin is highly sought-after by collectors ranging from hobbyists to coin experts. Originally designed by James Earle Fraser in 1913, this coin would eventually be retired in 1938, but not after having a long lasting impact that is still felt today. The design features a mighty American Bison, also known as a Buffalo, on the reverse, as well as an Indian head on its obverse. It’s been praised for its distinctly American design, and is popular with coin collectors all over the world.
Beginnings of the Denver Mint
Currently, there are five operational U.S. Mints, but there have been a total of ten U.S. Mints across the country throughout American History. The Denver mint, where the 1929-D Buffalo nickel was minted, was built in 1863 as a local assay office to determine the purity of different metals mined during the Gold Rush. Eventually demand rose to the level of needing to build an official U.S. Mint branch in Denver.
1929-D Buffalo Nickel Value
An average 1929-D Buffalo nickel is valued at around one dollar and twenty-five cents. However, stay on the lookout for a higher quality coin. Like many older coins, the value is tied to the condition of the coin. Collectors should look for clear edges on the design, and a clear engraving of the date, mint mark, and cent-value. These coins are highly sought after, and a mint condition 1929-D Buffalo nickel is worth sixty dollars.
Type of coin: Nickel
Year: 1929
Mint Mark: Denver
Total mintage: 8,370,000
Metal content: 75% Copper, 25% Nickel
Face value: Five Cents
Weight: 5 grams
Edge: Plain
Designer: James Earle Fraser
Diameter: 21.2 millimeters