Introduction
The jingle of coins in your pocket may be concealing a small fortune. Among the most intriguing pieces in American numismatics is the 1935 Buffalo Nickel. This coin, with its iconic Native American chief on the obverse and a stalwart bison on the reverse, is not just a piece of currency—it's a tangible slice of American history. But what makes the 1935 Buffalo Nickel particularly special, and more importantly, how much is it worth? Let's embark on a journey through the fascinating world of coin collecting to uncover the potential treasure that might be hiding in plain sight.
The Rich History of the Buffalo Nickel
Origins and Design
The Buffalo Nickel, also known as the Indian Head Nickel, was minted from 1913 to 1938. Its creation was part of a broader initiative by President Theodore Roosevelt to beautify American coinage. The design was crafted by James Earle Fraser, a renowned sculptor of the time.
- Obverse: Features a composite portrait of three Native American chiefs
- Reverse: Depicts an American bison, believed to be modeled after "Black Diamond" from the Central Park Zoo
The 1935 Minting
By 1935, the Buffalo Nickel had been in circulation for over two decades. This particular year saw significant mintage across three locations:
- Philadelphia: 58,264,000 (no mint mark)
- Denver: 12,092,000 (D mint mark)
- San Francisco: 10,300,000 (S mint mark)
These figures play a crucial role in determining the coin's rarity and value today.
Characteristics of the 1935 Buffalo Nickel
Physical Attributes
- Composition: 75% copper, 25% nickel
- Weight: 5 grams
- Diameter: 21.2 mm
- Edge: Plain
Design Elements
- Obverse: Profile of a Native American chief
- Reverse: American bison standing on a mound
- Inscriptions: "LIBERTY" and the year on the obverse, "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" and "FIVE CENTS" on the reverse
Factors Influencing Value
Several key factors determine the worth of a 1935 Buffalo Nickel:
- Mint Mark: The location where the coin was minted affects its rarity and value.
- Condition: The grade of the coin, ranging from poor to mint state, significantly impacts its worth.
- Rarity: Some varieties or error coins are exceptionally rare and thus more valuable.
- Historical Significance: As a Depression-era coin, it holds special interest for collectors and historians alike.
Grading the 1935 Buffalo Nickel
Understanding the grading system is crucial for assessing a coin's value. The Sheldon Scale, used by professional graders, ranges from 1 (Poor) to 70 (Perfect Uncirculated). Here's a simplified breakdown:
| Grade | Description | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Good (G-4) | Heavily worn | Major features visible, but lacking detail |
| Very Good (VG-8) | Worn, some detail | Partial horn on buffalo, more legends visible |
| Fine (F-12) | Moderate wear | Most details clear, full horn usually visible |
| Very Fine (VF-20) | Light wear | More subtle details apparent |
| Extremely Fine (EF-40) | Minimal wear | Only light wear on highest points |
| About Uncirculated (AU-50 to AU-58) | Trace of wear | Slight wear, some luster remaining |
| Mint State (MS-60 to MS-70) | No wear | Ranges from imperfect to flawless |
Comprehensive Value Guide for the 1935 Buffalo Nickel
1935 (Philadelphia – No Mint Mark)
| Grade | Value Range |
|---|---|
| Good to Very Fine | $2 – $8 |
| Extremely Fine | $10 – $15 |
| About Uncirculated | $20 – $30 |
| MS-60 to MS-63 | $35 – $75 |
| MS-64 to MS-66 | $100 – $300 |
| MS-67 and above | $1,000+ |
1935-D (Denver)
| Grade | Value Range |
|---|---|
| Good to Very Fine | $2 – $10 |
| Extremely Fine | $25 – $40 |
| About Uncirculated | $50 – $80 |
| MS-60 to MS-63 | $100 – $150 |
| MS-64 to MS-66 | $200 – $1,500 |
| MS-67 and above | $7,000+ |
1935-S (San Francisco)
| Grade | Value Range |
|---|---|
| Good to Very Fine | $2 – $8 |
| Extremely Fine | $12 – $20 |
| About Uncirculated | $30 – $50 |
| MS-60 to MS-63 | $70 – $100 |
| MS-64 to MS-66 | $175 – $600 |
| MS-67 and above | $4,000+ |
Rare Varieties and Errors
Errors and die varieties can significantly increase a coin's value. Some notable 1935 Buffalo Nickel errors include:
-
Doubled Die Obverse (DDO)
- Value range: $40 – $24,000
- Identifiable by doubling in the date or lettering
-
Doubled Die Reverse (DDR)
- Value range: $120 – $100,000+
- Shows doubling in the reverse inscriptions or bison details
-
Re-punched Mint Mark (RPM)
- Value range: $30 – $1,000+
- Visible overlapping of the mint mark
According to the "Cherrypickers' Guide to Rare Die Varieties" by Bill Fivaz and J.T. Stanton, these error coins are highly sought after by specialized collectors.
How to Identify a Valuable 1935 Buffalo Nickel
To determine if your 1935 Buffalo Nickel might be a hidden gem:
- Check for the mint mark (or lack thereof) under the words "FIVE CENTS" on the reverse.
- Examine the overall condition, paying close attention to the buffalo's horn and the Native American's cheekbone and feathers.
- Look for any signs of errors or die varieties using a 10x magnifying glass.
- Compare your coin to high-resolution images of graded examples from reputable sources like PCGS or NGC.
- Consider the luster and color of the coin, as these can indicate its grade and potential value.
Preservation and Care
If you believe you have a valuable specimen:
- Handle the coin by its edges to avoid leaving fingerprints or causing wear.
- Store it in a non-PVC holder to prevent chemical reactions.
- Keep it in a cool, dry place to minimize environmental damage.
- Avoid cleaning the coin, as improper cleaning can significantly reduce its value.
Market Trends and Investment Potential
According to the "Red Book" (A Guide Book of United States Coins), the 1935 Buffalo Nickel has shown steady appreciation over the past decade, particularly for high-grade specimens. Factors contributing to this trend include:
- Increasing interest in Depression-era coinage
- Growing scarcity of well-preserved examples
- Rising popularity of classic American coin designs
However, as with all investments, past performance does not guarantee future results. Collectors should focus on acquiring the best quality coins within their budget and collecting for personal enjoyment as well as potential financial gain.
Where to Sell Your 1935 Buffalo Nickel
If you're looking to sell a valuable 1935 Buffalo Nickel, consider these options:
- Local coin shops: Ideal for quick sales, though prices may be lower
- Online marketplaces like eBay: Access to a wide audience, but requires shipping and handling precautions
- Coin shows and conventions: Opportunities to meet dealers and collectors face-to-face
- Reputable coin dealers: Often provide fair market value for rare or high-grade coins
- Auction houses: Best for extremely valuable pieces, as they can attract serious collectors
The Cultural Significance of the 1935 Buffalo Nickel
The 1935 Buffalo Nickel is more than just a coin; it's a cultural artifact that represents:
- The artistry of early 20th-century American coin design
- The economic realities of the Great Depression era
- The complex relationship between Native American imagery and American currency
- The transition from classic to modern U.S. coinage designs
Conclusion: The Enduring Appeal of the 1935 Buffalo Nickel
While most 1935 Buffalo Nickels are worth a modest amount, some can be incredibly valuable. The key is to examine your coin carefully and understand what makes certain specimens more desirable to collectors. Whether your 1935 nickel is worth $2 or $20,000, it's a tangible link to America's past and a fascinating collectible in its own right.
As renowned numismatist Q. David Bowers once said, "Every coin has a story to tell." The 1935 Buffalo Nickel's story is one of artistic beauty, historical significance, and the enduring allure of America's numismatic heritage. So, the next time you come across a 1935 Buffalo Nickel, take a moment to appreciate its design, its journey through time, and yes, its potential hidden value. Who knows? You might just be holding a small fortune in the palm of your hand.
