1913 5C Type 1 Buffalo Nickel
The 1913 5C Type 1 Buffalo Nickel is a captivating piece in American numismatic history, noted not only for its artistic design but also its place in the transition to a new style of coinage. This nickel, struck at the Philadelphia and Denver mints, marked the beginning of the Buffalo Nickel series, designed by James Earle Fraser. As a whole, the Type 1 nickels are renowned for their timeless depiction of American heritage, encapsulating a Native American on the obverse and a buffalo on the reverse.
Historical Context
Introduced in 1913, the Buffalo Nickel was a drastic departure from previous designs, embracing a bolder artistic approach. The coin's release followed nearly a quarter-century run of the Liberty Head Nickel, generating excitement among collectors and the general public alike. Originally, the Type 1 design featured the buffalo standing on a raised mound. However, the design was modified later in the year to a flat ground (Type 2) as it was determined the mound wore down too quickly.
Mintage and Mint Information
Philadelphia Mint: With a higher mintage of 30,992,000, the Philadelphia-struck 1913 Type 1 Buffalo Nickel is more accessible today, though examples in mint state are still highly sought after. - **Denver Mint**: The Denver Mint produced 5,337,000 coins, making it less common than its Philadelphia counterpart. However, it remains a desirable specimen among collectors looking for Type 1 Buffalo Nickels.
PCGS Coin Number and Statistics
According to PCGS CoinFacts, the 1913 Type 1 Buffalo Nickel from the Philadelphia Mint holds the PCGS #3915, while the Denver Mint version is designated PCGS #3916. The rarity of these coins often depends on their condition, with higher grades (MS65 and above) commanding significant premiums.
Rarity and Collectibility
While common in lower grades due to its relatively high mintage, the 1913 5C Type 1 becomes notably rarer in mint state, particularly in high grades. The Denver issue is scarcer in the upper echelons of grading due to its smaller production run and distribution.
Current Market and Value
The market for 1913 Type 1 Buffalo Nickels is robust, with collectors valuing the coin for its aesthetic appeal and prominence in the history of U.S. numismatics. Recent auction listings illustrate the demand: - **Mint State 65 (MS65)**: Coins in this grade from the Philadelphia mint can fetch prices ranging from $100 to $300, whereas Denver mint examples may command higher premiums due to their relative scarcity. - **Higher Grades (MS66+)**: At the higher end, these coins can eclipse the $1000 mark, with especially high-quality or exceptionally well-preserved examples reaching even loftier valuations.
Auction Insights
Recent auctions have showcased stunning examples of the 1913 Type 1 Buffalo Nickel, with sales prices reflecting the coin's allure. For instance, a pristine MS66 Philadelphia mint example might sell for around $1,700, while a similarly graded Denver mint coin could approach or exceed $2,600, depending on market conditions and bidder interest. The allure of the 1913 5C Type 1 Buffalo Nickel is indisputable among numismatists. Its inception signified a shift in American coinage design and cultivated a legacy that endures in collector circles to this day. Each coin tells a story, not only of its minting and distribution but also of the era it heralds from.
