Buffalo Nickels (1913 - 1938)

The Buffalo Nickel was the successor of the Liberty Nickel, which had been minted for circulation from 1883 to 1912. The design that was chosen as the new five cent denomination shows a Native American on the obverse.

The reverse design of the coin was produced in two distinct types. The original Type 1 design was produced for only a short time during the first year of issue in 1913, struck at all three mint facilities in use at the time. A male North American Bison, commonly called a buffalo, is standing on a raised mound. Beneath the mound is the denomination expressed as FIVE CENTS with the mint mark below. Above the Bison is the inscription UNITED STATES OF AMERICA with the motto E PLURIBUS UNUM slightly below.

Soon after the first Buffalo Nickels were struck, it became apparent that area of the coin containing the denomination would wear quickly in circulation. The inscription had been placed on the highest point of the coin, which over time would have allowed it to wear away completely. The revised or Type 2 design would have the overall relief lowered, the ground beneath the bison made flat, and the denomination placed within a recessed area to better protect it from wear. This type, which was introduced part of the way through 1913, was used without further significant modifications until the end of the series.