The 1930-S Buffalo Nickel

The 1930-S Buffalo nickel was minted at the San Francisco Mint in smaller numbers than its Philadelphia counterpart. This was due to the San Francisco Mint providing coinage to the less-populated West Coast. As is the case for the entire series, 1930 Buffalo nickels were not struck well. This problem is mainly related to the fact that the dies were unable to produce mass quantities of the coin thanks to its ornate, high-relief design. In fact, Buffalo nickel dies wore out as much as three times more quickly than did Liberty nickel dies.

History of the San Francisco Mint

Opened in 1854, the San Francisco Mint was built to service the many gold mines that popped up during the California Gold Rush. Eventually, the Mint was approved to strike coins made of mixed metals, which led to the production of the Buffalo nickel. Known as “The Granite Lady,” the building is actually built from sandstone, and was one of the few buildings to survive the 1911 San Francisco earthquake. This background makes any S-struck coin extra special to many collectors. The S mint mark can be observed below the Buffalo on any 1930-S Buffalo nickel.

1930-S Buffalo Nickel Values

Due to the lower mintage of this coin at the San Francisco Mint, the 1930-S Buffalo nickel is worth more than its Philadelphia counterpart. When looking at coin value, it's important to take the coin’s condition into consideration, as this coin has been around for almost a century. While the average 1930-S Buffalo nickel will go for around one dollar and twenty-five cents, an uncirculated coin can go for almost seventy dollars. Uncirculated coins are noted for their absolute lack of wear and tear, clear engravings, and original shine. 

 

Type of coin: Nickel

Year: 1930

Mint Mark: San Francisco

Total mintage: 5,435,000

Metal content: 75% Copper, 25% Nickel

Face value: Five Cents

Weight: 5 grams

Edge: Plain

Designer: James Earle Fraser

Diameter: 21.2 millimeters