Numismatic

1913-D Type-I Buffalo Nickel XF

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The year 1913 marked a dramatic transformation for the United States five cent piece, introducing a design deeply rooted in the imagery of the American West. Sculpted by James Earle Fraser, this inaugural Buffalo Nickel showcases a powerful, detailed portrait of a Native American on its obverse, accompanied by the single word LIBERTY and the date of issue. The design represents a bold departure from the classical allegorical figures that previously dominated American coinage. On the reverse, a massive American bison stands atop a prominent, raised grassy mound. This specific feature defines the Type I variety, as the mound was later modified to protect the denomination text below it. Struck at the Denver Mint, this specimen displays the letter D just beneath the words FIVE CENTS. The legendary motto E PLURIBUS UNUM is also visible, completing a composition that captures a rugged, naturalistic chapter of American numismatic artistry.