1913-D 5C Type 1 Buffalo Nicke
The 1913-D Type 1 Buffalo Nickel is a fascinating piece of American numismatic history. Struck at the Denver Mint, this coin is part of the first year of the Buffalo Nickel series, which was minted from 1913 to 1938. The Type 1 design, featuring a bison on a raised mound, was only used in the initial year before being altered to a line base in the Type 2 design due to rapid wear concerns.
Rarity and Mintage:
The 1913-D Type 1 Buffalo Nickel is considered relatively common among Buffalo Nickels, with a total mintage of 5,337,000 coins. While the Type 1 nickels are more abundant than some later dates, finding high-grade specimens can be challenging, contributing to their desirability among collectors. The Denver Mint's coins, identifiable by the "D" mintmark on the reverse, are especially sought after when they exhibit a strong strike and eye appeal.
Mint and PCGS Details:
- **Mint**: Denver - **Mintage**: 5,337,000 - **PCGS Number**: 3917 **Value and Sales:** The value of a 1913-D Type 1 Buffalo Nickel can vary significantly based on condition, with lower-grade coins being accessible to most collectors and higher-grade coins commanding a premium. In circulated conditions, these nickels may range from $10-$50. However, high-grade examples with superior luster and detail can see selling prices in the hundreds or even thousands of dollars. For instance, a Mint State 67 grade may fetch over $1,000, depending on market conditions and specific coin attributes. Recent auction data have seen well-preserved specimens reach impressive figures, reflecting their enduring popularity.
Historical Significance:
From a numismatist’s perspective, the 1913-D Type 1 Buffalo Nickel holds significant historical value as part of the transition from the Liberty Head Nickel to the Buffalo design. The Type 1's artistic representation by sculptor James Earle Fraser, with its strong Native American profile and American bison, captures the spirit of the American West. This nickel represents a shift towards more thoughtful and relevant iconography in U.S. coinage during the early 20th century. In evaluating these nickels, collectors look for key attributes such as the sharpness of the details, especially the definition in the bison's fur and the Native American's hair and features. The coin's relief and the condition of the raised mound on the reverse are critical in determining its overall appeal and value. In conclusion, the 1913-D Type 1 Buffalo Nickel is not only a staple for Buffalo Nickel enthusiasts but also a piece reflecting American cultural and artistic transition. Collectors treasure these coins not just for their relative rarity and value but for their embodiment of a nostalgic vision of American heritage.
