Numismatic

1915 Buffalo Nickel AU

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The 1915 Buffalo Nickel stands as a classic example of American coinage, showcasing a design that departs from traditional classical allegories to celebrate the natural and cultural heritage of the continent. Struck in a copper alloy, this five-cent piece from the Philadelphia Mint is preserved in Almost Uncirculated condition, allowing observers to appreciate the fine details of its iconic imagery. On the obverse, a powerful right-facing profile of a Native American dominates the field. The word LIBERTY is inscribed along the upper right edge, while the date 1915 is clearly visible at the base of the portrait. This design, created by James Earle Fraser, captures a rugged and dignified realism that was revolutionary for its era. The reverse of the coin features a massive American bison standing on a mound, facing left. The motto E PLURIBUS UNUM is positioned above the animal's lower back, and the denomination FIVE CENTS is boldly displayed at the bottom of the design. This pairing of the Native American portrait and the bison creates a compelling visual narrative of the early American frontier.