1913 5C Type 2 Buffalo Nickel (Proof)
The 1913 5C Type 2 (Proof) Nickel, commonly known as the Buffalo Nickel, is a notable coin for numismatists due to its distinct design and historical significance. Issued as a part of the early proof series for the Buffalo Nickel, this coin represents the second design of the 1913 series, which replaced the short-lived Type 1 design that featured a raised mound beneath the bison.
Rarity and History:
The 1913 5C Type 2 (Proof) is considered scarce within numismatic circles due to its limited mintage and the challenges of preserving such early proofs in high-grade condition. The new design featured the similar iconic American bison on the reverse side, with the buffalo now standing on a flat plain rather than a raised mound. This change was made to enhance the coin's durability and longevity in circulation, as the Type 1 design wore down quickly.
Mintage:
The mintage for this proof coin was limited to just 1,514 pieces, contributing to its rarity among collectors. The scarcity is further emphasized by the fact that not all of these have survived in pristine condition due to the softness of the alloy and the coin's susceptibility to wear and environmental damage over the past century.
PCGS Information:
According to PCGS CoinFacts, the 1913 5C Type 2 (Proof) holds the PCGS number 3990. The coin is highly sought after by those aiming to complete a collection of early 20th-century American coins, especially within high-grade registry sets.
Value and Market Sales:
These coins are prized possessions in collections, with their value significantly influenced by the condition and grading. High-grade examples of the 1913 5C Type 2 (Proof), such as those graded PR65 and above, can fetch substantial amounts at auctions. For example, a PR67 graded piece recently achieved a sale price in the range of tens of thousands, reflecting its desirability and scarce availability. Market results often showcase this particular proof nickel achieving values commensurate with its rarity and historical charm.
Numismatic Significance:
From a numismatist’s perspective, the 1913 5C Type 2 (Proof) is more than just a rare piece; it is a part of the narrative of American coinage evolution. Designed by James Earle Fraser, it symbolizes a shift toward more distinctly American motifs in the US Mint's portfolio, highlighting native wildlife and indigenous peoples in a way that honored the era's budding national identity. Collecting the 1913 5C Type 2 (Proof) involves not just acquiring a piece of early 20th-century history but participating in a larger story of American culture and design. It holds an esteemed place in numismatics for those meticulously curating collections of American coin proofs, and its continued demand underscores its standing as a cornerstone of early 1900s American coinage.
