1915-D 5C Buffalo Nickel
The 1915-D Buffalo Nickel, minted in Denver, is an interesting piece for collectors due to its historical context and rarity. While not the rarest of the Buffalo Nickels, it's a key date for those building a comprehensive set. This coin, struck during the early years of the series, holds significant interest for numismatists.
Mintage and Mint Details
The 1915-D Buffalo Nickel had a total mintage of 7,569,000 pieces. This relatively low mintage compared to other years in the series contributes to its desirability among collectors. Minted in Denver, the coin features the traditional Buffalo Nickel design, with the iconic American bison on the reverse and a Native American profile on the obverse.
PCGS and Numismatic Facts
According to PCGS CoinFacts, the 1915-D Buffalo Nickel carries the identification number 3926. Its attractiveness to collectors comes not only from its design but also from the challenges it presents in finding well-preserved specimens. The coin often comes with weak strikes and uneven toning, increasing the value of pieces in finer condition.
Rarity and Market Performance
The 1915-D is not among the rarest Buffalo Nickels, yet it enjoys marked demand due to its relatively low mintage and historical significance. Although circulated examples are moderately accessible, those in higher grades, particularly Mint State (MS) conditions, offer better returns and are actively sought after in auctions.
Auction Records and Value
In recent years, sales data shows that well-preserved 1915-D Buffalo Nickels fetch premium prices. For instance: - In Fine to Very Fine condition, prices typically range from $150 to $300. - An example graded MS65 by PCGS can sell for over $7,000, highlighting the dramatic increase in value with higher quality. Auction results have demonstrated significant interest, with coins consistently hitting four figures at high-end sales. The desire for high-grade examples fuels competitive bidding amongst collectors aiming to complete top-tier sets.
Numismatic Interest
From a numismatist's perspective, the 1915-D Buffalo Nickel represents a fascinating piece of early 20th-century American coinage. The artistry of designer James Earle Fraser is evident and the series reflects a time when the U.S. Mint engaged in more artful coinage designs. Collectors appreciate the historical nuances and challenges associated with obtaining high-quality examples of this and other early Buffalo Nickels. Overall, the 1915-D stands as a significant coin within the Buffalo Nickel series, offering historical intrigue, collector interest, and the challenge of condition rarity for those dedicated to assembling a comprehensive set.
