Numismatic

1913 Type-I Buffalo Nickel BU

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The year 1913 marked a major aesthetic shift in American coinage with the introduction of the Indian Head nickel, commonly known as the Buffalo nickel. This inaugural issue represents the very first iteration of the design, known to collectors as the Type I. Created by sculptor James Earle Fraser, the coin departed from traditional neoclassical allegories, opting instead for subjects native to the North American continent. The obverse of the coin presents a powerful, detailed profile of a Native American, facing right. The year 1913 is clearly struck on the lower left of the portrait. Fraser compiled features from multiple individuals to create this composite representation, capturing a sense of dignity and strength. On the reverse, a massive American bison stands facing left. This Type I variety is distinguished by the specific topography beneath the animal, where the bison stands atop a raised mound of dirt. The denomination "FIVE CENTS" is inscribed directly on this raised ground. Because this raised mound subjected the denomination text to rapid wear in circulation, the design was modified later in the same year, making this original 1913 Type I design a fascinating snapshot of a celebrated coin at its very beginning.