The 1935 5 cent Buffalo nickel stands as an iconic piece of American numismatic history. Its rugged beauty, historical significance, and rarity make it a highly sought-after collectible. This comprehensive guide delves into the fascinating story of the 1935 Buffalo nickel, providing valuable insights for collectors and history enthusiasts alike.
The Buffalo nickel, designed by James Earle Fraser, was first introduced in 1913. Fraser's depiction of a powerful American bison on the obverse and a majestic Indian chief on the reverse captured the spirit of the Wild West and the nation's westward expansion.
In 1935, the United States Mint made a critical change to the Buffalo nickel. The composition was altered from an alloy of 75% copper and 25% nickel to one of 56% copper, 35% silver, and 9% manganese. This new composition, known as "nickel silver", provided enhanced durability and a distinctive silver-like appearance.
The 1935 Buffalo nickel is exceptionally rare, with only 2,486,250 specimens minted. This low mintage was due to the impending change to the Jefferson nickel, which was introduced in 1938.
The rarity of the 1935 Buffalo nickel has made it a highly valuable collectible. Depending on its condition and variety, a single coin can fetch thousands of dollars in the numismatic market.
The 1935 Buffalo nickel was struck at three different mints: Philadelphia (P), Denver (D), and San Francisco (S). Each mint produced distinct varieties of the coin, which can be identified by their mintmarks.
Variety | Mintmark | Estimated Value |
---|---|---|
No mintmark | P | $1,000+ |
D | D | $2,000+ |
S | S | $3,000+ |
Proof | None | $10,000+ |
Identifying and grading 1935 Buffalo nickels require careful examination. The following steps can help determine the variety and value of your coin:
Beyond its numismatic value, the 1935 Buffalo nickel has inspired a wealth of stories and legends. Here are a few amusing anecdotes:
The Buffalo Nickel Heist: In 1936, a group of thieves staged a daring heist at the Philadelphia Mint, stealing a large quantity of freshly minted 1935 Buffalo nickels. The coins were never recovered, and the thieves were never caught.
The Lucky Charm: A superstitious coin collector believed that carrying a 1935 Buffalo nickel in his pocket brought him good luck. He carried it for decades, attributing his success to the coin's magical powers.
The Gift from the Great Depress: During the depths of the Great Depression, a struggling man sold his only 1935 Buffalo nickel to buy groceries for his family. Little did he know that the coin would become one of the most valuable nickels in history.
For those interested in collecting 1935 Buffalo nickels, the following strategies can prove effective:
The 1935 5 cent Buffalo nickel is a testament to American history, artistry, and numismatic rarity. Whether you're a seasoned collector or a novice enthusiast, acquiring and studying these coins can provide both financial and historical enrichment. Dive into the world of the 1935 Buffalo nickel and discover the fascinating stories and collectible wonders that await.
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