No Date Buffalo Head Nickels: A Collector's Guide

What are buffalo head nickels with no date?

Buffalo head nickels with no date are a type of nickel coin that was minted in the United States from 1913 to 1938. They are made of a copper-nickel alloy and feature a design by James Earle Fraser that depicts a Native American chief on the obverse (heads) and a buffalo on the reverse (tails). The coins were originally minted with a date, but in 1938 the date was removed from the design to save on production costs.

Buffalo head nickels with no date are popular with collectors today, and they can be valuable depending on their condition and rarity. Some of the most valuable buffalo head nickels with no date include the 1913-S Type 1, which was minted in San Francisco and has a distinctive "S" mint mark on the reverse, and the 1937-D 3-Legged Buffalo, which has a design error that resulted in the buffalo having only three legs.

In addition to their value to collectors, buffalo head nickels with no date are also significant because they were the last US coins to feature a Native American on the obverse. They are a reminder of the important role that Native Americans have played in the history of the United States.

Here is a table with some additional information about buffalo head nickels with no date:

Buffalo Head Nickels with No Date

Buffalo head nickels with no date are a type of nickel coin that was minted in the United States from 1913 to 1938. They are made of a copper-nickel alloy and feature a design by James Earle Fraser that depicts a Native American chief on the obverse (heads) and a buffalo on the reverse (tails). The coins were originally minted with a date, but in 1938 the date was removed from the design to save on production costs.

• Type: Nickel coin
• Minted: 1913-1938
• Material: Copper-nickel alloy
• Obverse: Native American chief
• Reverse: Buffalo
• Designer: James Earle Fraser
• No date: 1938-1938
• Value: Varies depending on condition and rarity

Buffalo head nickels with no date are popular with collectors today, and they can be valuable depending on their condition and rarity. Some of the most valuable buffalo head nickels with no date include the 1913-S Type 1, which was minted in San Francisco and has a distinctive "S" mint mark on the reverse, and the 1937-D 3-Legged Buffalo, which has a design error that resulted in the buffalo having only three legs.

In addition to their value to collectors, buffalo head nickels with no date are also significant because they were the last US coins to feature a Native American on the obverse. They are a reminder of the important role that Native Americans have played in the history of the United States.

1. Type

Buffalo head nickels with no date are a type of nickel coin, which means they are made of a copper-nickel alloy. This is significant because it gives the coins their distinctive color and makes them more durable than coins made of other metals, such as silver or gold. Nickel coins are also less expensive to produce than coins made of other metals, which is one of the reasons why they have been used for many years to make coins with a low denomination, such as nickels and dimes.

• Composition: Buffalo head nickels with no date are made of a copper-nickel alloy, which is 75% copper and 25% nickel. This gives the coins their distinctive color and makes them more durable than coins made of other metals.
• Cost: Nickel coins are less expensive to produce than coins made of other metals, such as silver or gold. This is one of the reasons why they have been used for many years to make coins with a low denomination, such as nickels and dimes.
• Durability: Nickel coins are more durable than coins made of other metals, such as silver or gold. This is because nickel is a harder metal than silver or gold, and it is also less likely to corrode.
• Conductivity: Nickel is a good conductor of electricity, which makes it ideal for use in electrical applications. This is why nickel is often used in coins, which are often used in vending machines and other electrical devices.

The use of a copper-nickel alloy in buffalo head nickels with no date has several implications. First, it gives the coins their distinctive color. Second, it makes the coins more durable than coins made of other metals. Third, it makes the coins less expensive to produce than coins made of other metals. Finally, it makes the coins more conductive than coins made of other metals.

2. Minted

Buffalo head nickels with no date were minted from 1913 to 1938. This period of time is significant for a number of reasons.

• The start of a new era: The year 1913 marked the beginning of a new era in American coinage. In that year, the United States Mint introduced a new series of coins that featured new designs and a new composition. The buffalo head nickel was one of the first coins in this new series.
• A time of change: The years 1913 to 1938 were a time of great change in the United States. The country was involved in World War I, the economy was booming, and the population was growing rapidly. These changes are reflected in the design of the buffalo head nickel, which features a strong and powerful buffalo on the reverse.
• The end of an era: The year 1938 marked the end of an era in American coinage. In that year, the United States Mint stopped producing buffalo head nickels. The buffalo head nickel was replaced by the Jefferson nickel, which is still in circulation today.

The period from 1913 to 1938 was a significant one in the history of American coinage. The buffalo head nickel is a reminder of this era, and it is a valuable collectible for many people.

3. Material

The use of a copper-nickel alloy in buffalo head nickels with no date is significant for several reasons. First, it gives the coins their distinctive color. Copper is a reddish-brown metal, and nickel is a silvery-white metal. When these two metals are alloyed together, they create a metal that is golden-brown in color. This color is unique to copper-nickel alloys, and it is one of the things that makes buffalo head nickels with no date so distinctive.

Second, the use of a copper-nickel alloy makes the coins more durable than coins made of other metals. Copper is a relatively soft metal, and nickel is a relatively hard metal. When these two metals are alloyed together, they create a metal that is harder and more durable than either copper or nickel alone. This makes buffalo head nickels with no date more resistant to wear and tear, which is important for coins that are intended to circulate for many years.

Third, the use of a copper-nickel alloy makes the coins less expensive to produce than coins made of other metals. Copper and nickel are both relatively inexpensive metals, and they are also easy to alloy together. This makes it possible to produce buffalo head nickels with no date at a relatively low cost.

The use of a copper-nickel alloy in buffalo head nickels with no date has several practical implications. First, the distinctive color of the coins makes them easy to identify. This is important for people who are collecting coins, as well as for people who are using coins in vending machines and other automated devices.

Second, the durability of the coins makes them well-suited for circulation. Buffalo head nickels with no date are able to withstand wear and tear, which means that they can circulate for many years without becoming damaged.

Third, the low cost of production makes it possible to produce buffalo head nickels with no date at a relatively low cost. This is important for the United States Mint, as it allows them to produce coins at a profit.

4. Obverse

The obverse of buffalo head nickels with no date features a Native American chief. This design was chosen by James Earle Fraser, the coin's designer, to represent the strength and dignity of the Native American people. The chief is depicted in profile, wearing a feathered headdress and a buffalo robe. In his right hand, he holds a peace pipe.

• Symbol of strength and dignity: The Native American chief on the obverse of buffalo head nickels with no date is a symbol of the strength and dignity of the Native American people. This is reflected in the chief's proud stance, his piercing gaze, and his elaborate headdress.
• Reminder of Native American heritage: The Native American chief on the obverse of buffalo head nickels with no date is a reminder of the Native American heritage of the United States. This is a reminder that the land that is now the United States was once home to many different Native American tribes and nations.
• Artistic achievement: The Native American chief on the obverse of buffalo head nickels with no date is a beautiful and iconic work of art. Fraser's design is both realistic and stylized, and it captures the spirit of the Native American people.
• Historical significance: The Native American chief on the obverse of buffalo head nickels with no date is a reminder of the important role that Native Americans have played in the history of the United States. Native Americans were the first inhabitants of the land that is now the United States, and they have a rich and complex history.

The Native American chief on the obverse of buffalo head nickels with no date is a powerful and evocative symbol. It is a reminder of the strength, dignity, and heritage of the Native American people. It is also a beautiful and iconic work of art. The Native American chief is a reminder of the important role that Native Americans have played in the history of the United States.

5. Reverse

The reverse of buffalo head nickels with no date features a buffalo. This design was chosen by James Earle Fraser, the coin's designer, to represent the strength and majesty of the American bison. The buffalo is depicted in profile, with its head lowered and its muscles rippling. In the background, there is a setting sun.

The buffalo is an important symbol of the American West. It is a powerful and majestic animal that represents the strength and resilience of the American people. The buffalo is also a reminder of the important role that Native Americans have played in the history of the United States. Native Americans were the first inhabitants of the land that is now the United States, and they have a rich and complex history.

The buffalo on the reverse of buffalo head nickels with no date is a beautiful and iconic work of art. Fraser's design is both realistic and stylized, and it captures the spirit of the American bison. The buffalo is a reminder of the strength, majesty, and heritage of the American people. It is also a reminder of the important role that Native Americans have played in the history of the United States.

6. Designer

James Earle Fraser was a renowned American sculptor and medalist who designed the buffalo head nickel. Fraser was born in Winona, Minnesota, in 1876. He studied art at the Art Institute of Chicago and the Acadmie Julian in Paris. Fraser is best known for his sculptures, which include the "End of the Trail" statue and the "Pioneer Woman" statue. He also designed several coins and medals, including the buffalo head nickel.

• Fraser's artistic style: Fraser was a master of the Beaux-Arts style, which is characterized by its realism and attention to detail. This style is evident in the buffalo head nickel, which features a realistic depiction of a buffalo on the reverse and a Native American chief on the obverse.
• Fraser's inspiration: Fraser was inspired by the American West and its Native American culture. He spent time living with Native Americans, and he was fascinated by their way of life. This inspiration is evident in the buffalo head nickel, which features a Native American chief on the obverse and a buffalo on the reverse.
• Fraser's legacy: Fraser's buffalo head nickel is one of the most iconic coins in American history. It is a beautiful and timeless design that has been admired by people for generations. Fraser's legacy as a sculptor and medalist is secure, and his buffalo head nickel is a testament to his talent and artistry.

James Earle Fraser was a brilliant artist who created one of the most iconic coins in American history. His buffalo head nickel is a beautiful and timeless design that has been admired by people for generations. Fraser's legacy as a sculptor and medalist is secure, and his buffalo head nickel is a testament to his talent and artistry.

7. No date

The phrase "No date: 1938-1938" refers to a specific type of buffalo head nickel that was minted in 1938. These coins do not have a date inscribed on them, which is why they are referred to as "no date" buffalo head nickels. This is significant because it is the only year that buffalo head nickels were minted without a date. All other buffalo head nickels have a date inscribed on them, ranging from 1913 to 1937.

There are a few reasons why the 1938 buffalo head nickels were minted without a date. One reason is that the United States Mint was experimenting with new coin designs at the time. The Mint was considering eliminating the date from all coins, and the 1938 buffalo head nickel was one of the coins that was used to test this new design. Another reason why the 1938 buffalo head nickels were minted without a date is that the Mint was trying to save money. By eliminating the date from the coin, the Mint could save on the cost of production.

The "no date" buffalo head nickels are significant because they are a unique and interesting part of American numismatic history. They are also valuable to collectors, as they are relatively rare. The 1938-S buffalo head nickel is the most valuable of all the "no date" buffalo head nickels, as it was minted in San Francisco and only a small number of these coins were produced.

The "no date" buffalo head nickels are a reminder of the important role that coins play in our history and culture. They are also a beautiful and valuable collectible.

8. Value

The value of buffalo head nickels with no date varies depending on their condition and rarity. This is true for all coins, but it is especially true for buffalo head nickels with no date because they are relatively rare. The following are some of the factors that affect the value of buffalo head nickels with no date:

• Condition: The condition of a coin is one of the most important factors that affects its value. Coins that are in good condition are worth more than coins that are in poor condition. The condition of a coin is determined by a number of factors, including its strike, its luster, and its surface.
• Rarity: The rarity of a coin is another important factor that affects its value. Coins that are rare are worth more than coins that are common. The rarity of a coin is determined by a number of factors, including its mintage, its survival rate, and its demand.
• Date: The date of a coin can also affect its value. In general, older coins are worth more than newer coins. This is because older coins are rarer and more difficult to find.
• Mint mark: The mint mark on a coin can also affect its value. Coins that were minted at certain mints are worth more than coins that were minted at other mints. This is because certain mints produced fewer coins than others, making the coins from those mints more rare.

The value of buffalo head nickels with no date can range from a few dollars to several thousand dollars. The most valuable buffalo head nickels with no date are those that are in good condition, are rare, and have a desirable mint mark. If you are interested in collecting buffalo head nickels with no date, it is important to do your research and learn about the factors that affect their value.

FAQs about Buffalo Head Nickels with No Date

Buffalo head nickels with no date are a popular and valuable type of coin. Here are some frequently asked questions about these coins:

Question 1: What are buffalo head nickels with no date?

Buffalo head nickels with no date are a type of nickel coin that was minted in the United States from 1913 to 1938. They feature a design by James Earle Fraser that depicts a Native American chief on the obverse (heads) and a buffalo on the reverse (tails). The coins were originally minted with a date, but in 1938 the date was removed from the design to save on production costs.

Question 2: How much are buffalo head nickels with no date worth?

The value of buffalo head nickels with no date varies depending on their condition and rarity. Coins that are in good condition and are rare are worth more than coins that are in poor condition and are common. The most valuable buffalo head nickels with no date are those that were minted in San Francisco and have a distinctive "S" mint mark.

Question 3: Are buffalo head nickels with no date rare?

Yes, buffalo head nickels with no date are relatively rare. Only a small number of these coins were minted in 1938, and many of them have been lost or destroyed over the years. This makes them a valuable and sought-after collectible.

Question 4: Why were buffalo head nickels with no date minted?

There are two reasons why buffalo head nickels with no date were minted. First, the United States Mint was experimenting with new coin designs at the time and was considering eliminating the date from all coins. Second, the Mint was trying to save money by eliminating the date from the coin.

Question 5: What are some of the key features of buffalo head nickels with no date?

Some of the key features of buffalo head nickels with no date include:

• They feature a design by James Earle Fraser that depicts a Native American chief on the obverse and a buffalo on the reverse.
• They were minted from 1913 to 1938.
• The date was removed from the design in 1938 to save on production costs.
• They are relatively rare, especially those that were minted in San Francisco and have a distinctive "S" mint mark.

Buffalo head nickels with no date are a popular and valuable type of coin. They are a reminder of the important role that Native Americans have played in the history of the United States, and they are a beautiful and timeless work of art.

Summary: Buffalo head nickels with no date are a valuable and sought-after collectible. They are a reminder of the important role that Native Americans have played in the history of the United States, and they are a beautiful and timeless work of art.

Next Article Section: The History of Buffalo Head Nickels

Conclusion

Buffalo head nickels with no date are a fascinating and valuable part of American numismatic history. They are a reminder of the important role that Native Americans have played in the history of the United States, and they are a beautiful and timeless work of art.

The buffalo head nickel was designed by James Earle Fraser and was minted from 1913 to 1938. The date was removed from the design in 1938 to save on production costs. Buffalo head nickels with no date are relatively rare, especially those that were minted in San Francisco and have a distinctive "S" mint mark.

Buffalo head nickels with no date are a valuable and sought-after collectible. They are a reminder of the important role that Native Americans have played in the history of the United States, and they are a beautiful and timeless work of art.