If you happen to own a 1935 Buffalo Nickel, you might be holding onto more than just an old coin. It could be worth thousands of dollars depending on its condition, mint marks, and other rare features.
Despite having a higher mintage compared to its predecessors, this particular nickel has become a favorite in the world of coin collecting.
An Insight into the 1935 Buffalo Nickel
The 1935 Buffalo Nickel, often called the Indian Head Nickel, is part of a series that began in 1913. Created by the talented designer James Earle Fraser, this coin is known for its iconic imagery.
On the front, you’ll see a Native American profile, and the reverse features a bison, giving it the name “Buffalo Nickel.”
Interestingly, production of this series was paused in 1932 and 1933 but resumed in 1935 due to economic improvements during Franklin D. Roosevelt’s presidency.
The year 1935 also marked one of the final years before the Buffalo Nickel was replaced by the Jefferson Nickel, making it even more desirable for collectors.
Important Facts About the 1935 Buffalo Nickel
- Composition: 75% Copper, 25% Nickel
- Mint Locations: Philadelphia (No Mint Mark), Denver (D), and San Francisco (S)
- Weight: 5.0 grams
- Diameter: 21.2 mm
- Designer: James Earle Fraser
- Face Value: $0.05 (Five Cents)
- Total Mintage: 80,656,000
How to Identify a Valuable 1935 Buffalo Nickel
If you’re wondering how to assess the value of your 1935 Buffalo Nickel, here are some key factors to consider:
- Condition and Grading: The coin’s condition is one of the biggest factors in determining its value. Professional grading services, like PCGS and NGC, use a scale from Poor (P-1) to Perfect Mint State (MS-70). A coin in mint condition (MS-65) could be worth around $150, while higher grades, like MS-68, can fetch up to $50,000 or more!To assess the condition yourself, check the sharpness of the design details:
- Mint Marks and Mintage: The coin’s mint location also plays a big role in its value. In 1935, nickels were minted in three locations:
- No Mint Mark (Philadelphia): The most common, with over 58 million produced. These typically sell for $5-$20 in circulated condition and $50-$500 in mint condition.
- D Mint Mark (Denver): Less common, with about 12 million produced. These can range from $10 to $80 in circulated condition, with high-grade coins reaching $2,000 to $10,000.
- S Mint Mark (San Francisco): The rarest, with just over 10 million produced. These coins can range from $50 to $3,000 in circulated condition and up to $15,000-$30,000 in mint condition.
- Errors and Rarities: Some 1935 Buffalo Nickels contain minting errors, which can make them much more valuable. Here are a few examples:
- Doubled Die Reverse: A rare error where the design on the reverse side is doubled. These coins can range in value from $120 to $30,000 depending on their condition.
- Repunched Mint Mark (RPM): This occurs when the mint mark is stamped more than once, creating a visible doubling. RPM nickels can be worth anywhere from $100 to $7,000.
- Off-Center Strike: If the design is misaligned during minting, the coin may have an off-center strike. Depending on the severity, these can be worth between $50 and $1,500.
How to Check for Fake 1935 Buffalo Nickels
With such high value, counterfeit 1935 Buffalo Nickels are not uncommon. Here are a few tips to help you determine if your nickel is genuine:
- Check the Weight: The coin should weigh exactly 5 grams.
- Verify the Composition: Authentic Buffalo Nickels are made from 75% copper and 25% nickel. Use a magnet to test—if your coin sticks to it, it’s likely a fake.
- Examine the Mint Mark: Check for inconsistencies in the mint mark’s style, size, or position.
- Inspect the Date: Ensure the font and style of the “1935” match those of genuine coins. Any unevenness or irregularities may indicate a counterfeit.
Conclusion: Is Your 1935 Buffalo Nickel Valuable?
Whether you’re an experienced collector or just found an old coin in your drawer, the 1935 Buffalo Nickel could be a hidden treasure.
Depending on its condition, mint mark, and potential minting errors, it could be worth anywhere from a few dollars to tens of thousands. Always have your coin professionally graded to ensure you’re getting the best value.
Ethan is a passionate rare coin collector with years of experience uncovering the stories and history behind unique coins. His insightful articles are a go-to for anyone curious about coin values or their fascinating backstories.