The 1936-S Buffalo Nickel
The 1936-S 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. 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.
Hobo Nickels
When the Buffalo nickel was introduced in 1913, it became popular among coin engravers. These engraved coins became colloquially known as “Hobo nickels.” Due to the thickness of the coin, the heft of a nickel in general, and the subject on both sides of the coin, it was very popular among coin carvers. Nearly all previous coins had depicted women, and the male head had larger, coarser features that could be altered in many ways. Even the buffalo on the reverse could be changed into another animal or a man with a backpack.
1936-S Buffalo Nickel Values
Due to the lower mintage of this coin at the San Francisco Mint, the 1936-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 1936-S Buffalo nickel will go for one dollar, an uncirculated coin can go for almost forty dollars. Uncirculated coins are noted for their absolute lack of wear and tear, clear engravings, and original shine.
Type of coin: Nickel
Year: 1936
Mint Mark: San Francisco
Total mintage: 14,930,000
Metal content: 75% Copper, 25% Nickel
Face value: Five Cents
Weight: 5 grams
Edge: Plain
Designer: James Earle Fraser
Diameter: 21.2 millimeters