1919 5C Buffalo Nickel
The 1919 Buffalo Nickel, also known as the 1919 5C, is a significant piece within the broader Buffalo Nickel series, coined by the United States Mint from 1913 to 1938. Designed by sculptor James Earle Fraser, the Buffalo Nickel embodies a celebrated design that reflects the American spirit, showcasing an indigenous American profile on the obverse and an American bison on the reverse.
Rarity and Mintage
The 1919 5C Buffalo Nickel had a substantial mintage compared to some of its counterparts in the series. With 60,868,000 coins struck at the Philadelphia Mint, it is relatively common by mintage standards among Buffalo Nickels. However, its condition rarity comes into play, with fewer high-grade examples surviving over the years, especially coins in Mint State condition. This makes specimens in well-preserved states considerably more desirable to collectors.
Mint: Philadelphia
Mintage: 60,868,000
PCGS #: 3941
Value and Market Trends
The value of a 1919 5C Buffalo Nickel greatly varies depending on its grade and condition. Circulated examples in lower grades can often be found at a modest price. However, as the condition improves, particularly for coins that have been certified as Mint State (MS) or with elements of Full Strike, the value increases significantly. Key factors influencing value include the luster, strike quality, and the presence of original surfaces. According to recent sales data:
- Good (G4): $2.50
- Very Fine (VF20): $6
- About Uncirculated (AU50): $30
- Mint State (MS65): Prices can exceed $5,000, especially for coins with superior eye appeal and strike. Auction records highlight that while lower-grade coins are plentiful, MS65 examples have shown steady appreciation, at times fetching premium auction prices when exceptional eye appeal is present.
Historical Context and Numismatic Significance
The 1919 Buffalo Nickel reflects an era of robust design in American coinage, in part due to its complex design which included intricate details that honored cultural themes. As numismatists explore this coin, the intricacies of the design and the challenges faced during minting processes, such as die wear and poor striking, emerge as central themes. These factors contribute to the coin's interest and studying these aspects helps in understanding minting practices of the time.
CoinFacts and Collector Insights
PCGS CoinFacts provides profound insights into this coin, noting that while the 1919 nickels are generally well-struck, collectors should remain vigilant for signs of wear or weak strikes, which are prevalent in lower-grade examples. For collectors aiming at assembling a high-grade set, the 1919 Nickel is imperative due to its foundational presence in the series and potential for highly aesthetic specimens. Despite its relative commonness in circulated conditions, the 1919 5C exemplifies the constant pursuit of excellence within numismatic circles, where high-grade and original coins secure their place as quintessential pieces for enthusiasts. The continuous interest and evolving sales data underscore this coin’s substantial allure and numismatic relevancy.
