United States Nickel With Indian And Buffalo

The Enduring Legacy of the Indian Head and Buffalo Nickel: A Deep Dive

The United States nickel, a seemingly humble five-cent piece, holds within its history a fascinating story of artistic innovation, social commentary, and a reflection of a nation grappling with its identity. While the Jefferson nickel is what most people recognize today, the Indian Head and Buffalo nickel, minted from 1913 to 1938, remains a captivating symbol of the American West and a poignant reminder of the Native American experience. This coin, often called the Buffalo nickel, stands as a testament to a bygone era, a time when the romance of the frontier was still alive in the American imagination. Let's delve into the rich history, design, and enduring appeal of this iconic piece of American numismatic history.

The story of the Indian Head and Buffalo nickel begins with a desire for artistic modernization. In the early 20th century, the United States Mint, under the direction of Mint Director Franklin MacVeagh, sought to replace the existing Liberty Head nickel, designed by Charles E. Barber, which had been in circulation since 1883. MacVeagh believed the nation's coinage lacked artistic merit and desired designs that would be distinctly American and reflect the nation's progress. This sentiment aligned with the broader artistic movement of the time, which emphasized realism and a departure from the more traditional, classical designs that had dominated American coinage for decades. The existing Liberty Head nickel, while functional, was considered uninspired and lacking in artistic flair.

The responsibility for creating this new design fell upon James Earle Fraser, a renowned sculptor known for his depictions of the American West and Native American life. Fraser's artistic vision was profoundly influenced by his childhood experiences in the Dakota Territory, where he witnessed firsthand the lives and culture of Native American tribes. He sought to capture the essence of the American West and pay tribute to the Native American people, whose history was inextricably linked to the land. This personal connection to the subject matter infused his design with a sense of authenticity and respect, making it a truly remarkable piece of art. The resulting Indian Head and Buffalo nickel not only replaced the older design but also became a symbol of a changing America and a reflection on the nation's complex relationship with its Native American population.

The Design: A Symphony of American Iconography

The design of the Indian Head and Buffalo nickel is a masterclass in symbolism and artistic composition. Fraser sought to encapsulate the spirit of the American West in a single coin, and he succeeded admirably. The obverse (front) of the coin features a portrait of a Native American man, while the reverse (back) depicts an American bison, often referred to as a buffalo.

The Obverse: The Stoic Profile of the American Indian

The image on the obverse is not a portrait of a single individual, but rather a composite of three different Native American men. Fraser used Iron Tail, a Lakota Sioux chief; Two Moons, a Cheyenne chief; and Big Tree, a Kiowa chief, as models for his design. He aimed to create a representative image of Native American dignity and strength, rather than focusing on a specific person. Each man brought unique features to the composition, allowing Fraser to create a compelling and representative image of Native Americans. The strong, angular features, the proud gaze, and the feathered headdress all contribute to an image of quiet resilience and inherent nobility. This artistic choice reflected Fraser's desire to honor the Native American people and capture the essence of their spirit.

The word "LIBERTY" is inscribed along the top of the coin, while the year of minting is located at the bottom. The initial design also included Fraser's initial "F" near the shoulder of the Indian, but this was later removed to address issues with the coin's durability.

The Reverse: The Majestic American Bison

The reverse of the nickel features a majestic American bison standing on a mound of earth. The bison, also known as a buffalo, was a symbol of the American West, representing both its abundance and its eventual near-extinction due to westward expansion. The bison in Fraser's design is believed to be based on Black Diamond, a bison that lived at the Bronx Zoo in New York City. Fraser spent considerable time studying Black Diamond, capturing its powerful physique and its untamed spirit.

The words "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" and "E PLURIBUS UNUM" (out of many, one) are inscribed above the bison, while the denomination "FIVE CENTS" is located below. The reverse design perfectly complements the obverse, creating a powerful visual representation of the American West and its iconic symbols. The bison, standing proudly on the prairie, evokes a sense of freedom, resilience, and the untamed spirit of the frontier.

The choice to feature both the Native American and the bison was deliberate. It was meant to represent the intertwined fate of both the Native American people and the wildlife that roamed the plains. Both were facing significant challenges due to the expansion of the United States, and the coin served as a visual reminder of their plight.

A Comprehensive Overview: From Minting Challenges to Collectible Treasures

The Indian Head and Buffalo nickel was minted from 1913 to 1938, a relatively short period compared to other U.S. coin designs. However, its production was not without its challenges. The high relief design, while artistically stunning, proved to be problematic in mass production.

Minting Difficulties and Design Modifications

The initial design of the nickel suffered from a significant problem: the date wore off quickly in circulation. This was due to the placement of the date on a raised portion of the coin, which was particularly vulnerable to wear and tear. The Mint attempted to address this issue in 1913 by modifying the design, lowering the ground on which the bison stood. This slight adjustment protected the date somewhat, but the problem persisted throughout the coin's production.

The high relief of the design also presented challenges for striking the coins. It required significant pressure to fully bring out the details, which resulted in shortened die life. This meant that the Mint had to replace the dies more frequently, increasing production costs. Despite these challenges, the Mint continued to produce the nickel for 25 years, testament to its popularity and the public's appreciation for its design.

Key Dates and Valuable Varieties

Despite the common appearance of many Buffalo nickels, certain dates and mint marks are highly sought after by collectors. These key dates and varieties are significantly more valuable due to their rarity and historical significance.

• 1913-S Type 2: This is one of the most valuable Buffalo nickels. The Type 2 refers to the modified design where the ground under the bison was lowered. The "S" mint mark indicates that it was struck at the San Francisco Mint.
• 1914-D: Another key date, this nickel was struck at the Denver Mint.
• 1915-D: Similar to the 1914-D, this Denver Mint issue is also a valuable key date.
• 1937-D "Three-Legged" Buffalo: This error coin is a result of over-polishing a die, which removed one of the bison's legs. It is a popular and easily recognizable variety.

The condition of the coin also plays a significant role in its value. Uncirculated coins, which retain their original luster and show no signs of wear, are worth considerably more than circulated coins. Even coins in lower grades can be valuable if they are key dates or rare varieties.

The Enduring Appeal of the Buffalo Nickel

Despite its relatively short production run, the Buffalo nickel remains one of the most popular and recognizable U.S. coins. Its enduring appeal can be attributed to several factors:

• Artistic Design: The coin's design is widely considered to be one of the most beautiful and iconic in U.S. coinage history.
• Historical Significance: The coin represents a significant period in American history, a time of westward expansion and the changing relationship between the United States and its Native American population.
• Nostalgia: For many people, the Buffalo nickel evokes a sense of nostalgia for a bygone era, a time when life was simpler and the American West still held a sense of mystery and adventure.
• Collectibility: The wide range of dates, mint marks, and varieties makes the Buffalo nickel a popular coin for collectors of all levels.

Trends & Developments: Buffalo Nickel in the Modern Era

The legacy of the Buffalo nickel extends far beyond the realm of numismatics. Its iconic imagery continues to resonate in contemporary culture, appearing in art, advertising, and popular media. This enduring presence reflects the coin's power as a symbol of American identity and its ability to evoke a sense of nostalgia and cultural memory.

Reinterpretations in Art and Design: Artists and designers frequently draw inspiration from the Buffalo nickel's design, reinterpreting its iconic imagery in new and innovative ways. The Native American profile and the American bison are often used as motifs in artwork, clothing, and other consumer products. These reinterpretations serve to keep the coin's legacy alive and introduce it to new generations.

The Buffalo Nickel as a Symbol of the American West: The Buffalo nickel remains deeply associated with the American West, evoking images of vast plains, roaming herds of bison, and the spirit of the frontier. This association makes it a popular symbol for businesses, organizations, and cultural institutions that aim to capture the essence of the West.

Digital Representations and NFTs: In the digital age, the Buffalo nickel has also found a place in the virtual world. Digital representations of the coin are used in online games, virtual currencies, and non-fungible tokens (NFTs). These digital assets allow collectors and enthusiasts to own and trade unique digital versions of the iconic coin.

The Continued Popularity of Buffalo Nickel Jewelry: Jewelry made from or inspired by Buffalo nickels remains a popular trend. Rings, pendants, earrings, and other accessories often feature the coin's iconic design, allowing individuals to wear a piece of American history and express their appreciation for the coin's beauty and symbolism.

Tips & Expert Advice: Collecting and Preserving Buffalo Nickels

Collecting Buffalo nickels can be a rewarding and enjoyable hobby. However, it is important to approach collecting with knowledge and care to ensure that you are building a valuable and well-preserved collection.

Start with the Basics: Before you start buying coins, familiarize yourself with the different dates, mint marks, and varieties of Buffalo nickels. There are many resources available online and in libraries that can help you learn about the coin's history, design, and grading.

Focus on Condition: The condition of a coin is one of the most important factors determining its value. When buying Buffalo nickels, look for coins that are well-struck, have minimal wear, and have not been cleaned or damaged.

Buy from Reputable Dealers: When buying coins online or at coin shows, make sure to purchase from reputable dealers who are knowledgeable and trustworthy. Look for dealers who are members of professional organizations, such as the American Numismatic Association (ANA).

Store Your Coins Properly: To protect your coins from damage, store them in archival-quality holders or albums. Avoid handling your coins directly, as the oils from your skin can damage the surface.

Consider Professional Grading: If you have a particularly valuable or rare Buffalo nickel, consider having it professionally graded by a reputable grading service, such as PCGS or NGC. Professional grading can help to authenticate your coin and establish its value.

Clean Coins with Caution: Cleaning coins is generally not recommended, as it can damage the surface and reduce their value. However, if a coin is heavily soiled or has significant corrosion, you may consider gently cleaning it with distilled water and a mild soap. Always test your cleaning method on a less valuable coin first to ensure that it does not cause any damage.

Develop a Budget: Like any hobby, collecting coins can be expensive. It is important to develop a budget and stick to it. Decide how much you are willing to spend on coins each month or year, and avoid overspending.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

• Q: How can I tell if my Buffalo nickel is valuable?
  • A: Check the date and mint mark. Key dates like 1913-S Type 2, 1914-D, and 1915-D are generally more valuable. Condition also plays a crucial role.
• Q: What does the "D" or "S" mint mark mean on a Buffalo nickel?
  • A: "D" indicates the Denver Mint, and "S" indicates the San Francisco Mint. No mint mark means it was minted in Philadelphia.
• Q: Why do some Buffalo nickels have a missing leg?
  • A: This is the "Three-Legged" Buffalo variety, a result of over-polishing a die.
• Q: How should I store my Buffalo nickels?
  • A: Use archival-quality holders or albums to protect them from damage.
• Q: Is it okay to clean Buffalo nickels?
  • A: Generally not recommended, as it can damage the surface and reduce their value. If necessary, use distilled water and mild soap with extreme caution.
• Q: What is the face on the Buffalo nickel?
  • A: It is a composite of three Native American men: Iron Tail, Two Moons, and Big Tree.

Conclusion

The Indian Head and Buffalo nickel, despite its production challenges and relatively short lifespan, remains an enduring symbol of American history and art. Its iconic design, featuring the stoic profile of a Native American and the majestic American bison, captures the essence of the American West and its complex relationship with Native American culture. Whether you are a seasoned numismatist or simply someone with an appreciation for American history, the Buffalo nickel offers a fascinating glimpse into a bygone era.

From its artistic inspiration to its minting difficulties and the valuable varieties it spawned, the Buffalo nickel’s story is rich and multifaceted. Collecting these coins offers more than just the acquisition of metal; it provides a tangible connection to the past, a reminder of the values and ideals that shaped the nation.

So, the next time you come across a Buffalo nickel, take a moment to appreciate its beauty and its history. It is a small piece of metal with a big story to tell. What are your favorite details about the Indian Head and Buffalo nickel? Do you have any examples in your collection?