Discover The True 1920 Buffalo Nickel Value Today!

In the world of coin collecting, few pieces capture the imagination and interest of enthusiasts like the 1920 Buffalo Nickel. This coin, with its majestic design of a buffalo on the reverse and a Native American head on the obverse, is not just a piece of currency but a slice of American history. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the Buffalo Nickel Value in detail, helping you understand what makes this coin so special, how to determine its worth, and tips for collectors looking to add this piece to their collection.

Understanding the 1920 Buffalo Nickel

The Buffalo Nickel, also known as the Indian Head Nickel, was designed by James Earle Fraser. Minted from 1913 to 1938, this series is one of the most famous in U.S. numismatics due to its striking design and historical significance.

Design and Historical Significance

• Obverse: Features the profile of a Native American, which is a composite of three different chiefs: Iron Tail (Lakota Sioux), Big Tree (Kiowa), and Two Moons (Cheyenne).
• Reverse: Displays an American bison, believed to be modeled after Black Diamond from the New York Central Park Zoo, standing in front of a mound.

Why Collect the 1920 Buffalo Nickel?

The allure of collecting the 1920 Buffalo Nickel stems from:

• Historical Value: It represents a pivotal time in American history, when the country was still expanding westward and dealing with issues like Native American rights and land disputes.
• Aesthetic Appeal: The high relief design, which was novel at the time, makes each coin a work of art.
• Rarity: Some dates, like the 1920-S, are particularly rare in mint condition, increasing their value.

Factors Influencing the Buffalo Nickel Value

When determining the value of your 1920 Buffalo Nickel, several factors come into play:

1. Mint Mark

Coins were minted in three locations:

• Philadelphia: No mint mark
• Denver: "D" mint mark
• San Francisco: "S" mint mark

The 1920-S nickel is typically the most valuable due to its lower mintage figures and rarity.

2. Condition

The condition of the coin is paramount:

• Mint State (MS): Coins in pristine condition, especially those graded MS-65 or higher, can command high prices.
• Circulated: Even circulated coins can be valuable if they show good detail, but wear impacts value significantly.

3. Strike Quality

The strike can vary:

• Full Horn: On the Buffalo side, if the horn of the bison is fully struck with all details visible, this significantly increases value.
• Weak Strike: Coins with weak strikes, particularly on the reverse, are less valuable.

4. Errors and Varieties

Errors and die varieties can also affect value:

• Doubled Die: Occurs when a die strikes the coin twice at different angles.
• Overdates: An error where one year is over another, typically increasing value.

Assessing the Value of Your 1920 Buffalo Nickel

Here’s how you can estimate the value:

Tools and References

• Coin Grading Guides: Books like "The Red Book" or guides from PCGS and NGC.
• Online Price Guides: Websites like PCGS CoinFacts, NGC Coin Explorer, or CoinTrackers.

Check the Mint Mark

<table> <tr> <th>Mint</th> <th>Mint Mark Location</th> </tr> <tr> <td>Philadelphia</td> <td>No mark</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Denver</td> <td>Under the word "FIVE" on the reverse</td> </tr> <tr> <td>San Francisco</td> <td>Under the word "FIVE" on the reverse</td> </tr> </table>

Examine the Condition

• Inspect for Wear: Look at high points on the design like the hair braids on the obverse or the fur details on the buffalo. Wear here reduces grade.

• Use Grading Scales: Understand terms like:

  • Uncirculated (MS-60 to MS-70)
  • Extremely Fine (EF-40 to EF-45)
  • Very Fine (VF-20 to VF-30)

Assess the Strike

• Full vs. Partial Horn: A coin with a full horn is more valuable.

Look for Errors

<p class="pro-note">🔍 Pro Tip: Always check for errors or varieties as they can significantly increase the coin's value, even in lower conditions.</p>

Where to Find 1920 Buffalo Nickels

Buying Online

• eBay and Heritage Auctions are great places to start looking for 1920 Buffalo Nickels. Be sure to read descriptions and ask for detailed pictures or certification information.

Coin Shows

• Visiting local or national coin shows can provide an opportunity to see coins in person and haggle for the best price.

Local Dealers

• Local coin shops might have Buffalo Nickels in stock or can source one for you. Building relationships here can also offer insider tips.

Tips for Collecting

• Certification: Always buy coins certified by reputable grading services like PCGS or NGC for assurance of authenticity and grade.

• Storage: Store your nickels in protective holders or albums to prevent further wear.

• Budget: Set a budget for your collecting endeavors. Remember, some Buffalo Nickels can fetch high prices, especially the rare varieties.

• Patience: Sometimes, waiting for the right coin at the right price is key to building a great collection.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overgrading: Don’t rely on seller grading. Always get an expert opinion or use certified coins.
• Ignoring Varieties: Not all Buffalo Nickels are created equal. Look for specific dates and mint marks that add value.
• Buying Coins with Problems: Avoid coins with cleaning, scratches, or significant damage.

Advanced Techniques for Enthusiasts

• Understanding Die States: Certain die states (like early die, middle die, late die) can influence value.
• Photographing: Good lighting and proper angle can reveal details like die scratches or other characteristics.
• Networking: Engage with coin forums and societies for insights, trades, and sales.

<p class="pro-note">💡 Pro Tip: Before you decide to buy or sell, compare your coin against known standards. Photos from known reference collections can help you grade your coins accurately.</p>

Wrapping Up

Exploring the world of the 1920 Buffalo Nickel is a journey into numismatic history, with each coin telling its own story. Whether you're starting out or are a seasoned collector, understanding the factors that influence the value of these coins can make the difference between a standard acquisition and a collector's treasure.

As you delve deeper into your coin collecting journey, remember to keep learning, connect with fellow collectors, and enjoy the historical and artistic beauty of each piece you add to your collection. Explore other related tutorials or visit numismatic societies for more tips and resources to enhance your collection.

<p class="pro-note">🌟 Pro Tip: To appreciate the full history behind your collection, consider reading books like “The Rare Coinage of 1920 America” by J.E. Hartley for a deeper understanding of the era these coins were minted in.</p>

<div class="faq-section"> <div class="faq-container"> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>How can I tell if my Buffalo Nickel is from 1920?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Look at the date located on the obverse side, directly below the portrait of the Native American. The date should be clearly visible if the coin is not too worn.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>What is the most valuable 1920 Buffalo Nickel?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>The 1920-S Buffalo Nickel in Mint State (MS-65 or higher) is typically the most valuable due to its rarity and low mintage numbers.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Does the coin need to be certified to be valuable?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Certification by recognized grading services like PCGS or NGC ensures authenticity and grade, significantly impacting value, especially for high-grade or rare varieties.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Why do some 1920 Buffalo Nickels have a faint mint mark?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Mint marks were often hand-punched into the dies, which could lead to weak impressions due to the die's condition or the depth of the punch.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Are there any common errors in 1920 Buffalo Nickels that add value?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Yes, errors like doubled dies or overdates can add significant value. For example, the 1920/19 overdate is particularly sought after by collectors.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div>