Numismatic

1915 Buffalo Nickel Fine

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The 1915 Buffalo Nickel stands as a classic representative of early twentieth-century American coinage. Struck in Philadelphia, this five-cent piece showcases a design that departs from traditional heraldic imagery, opting instead for themes deeply rooted in the American continent. The coin is composed of a copper-nickel alloy, containing no precious metal, yet its cultural value remains immense to those who appreciate historic currency. On the obverse side, a powerful right-facing portrait of a Native American profile dominates the field. The word LIBERTY is inscribed along the upper right edge, with the year 1915 clearly visible at the base of the neck. This detailed representation was created by the sculptor James Earle Fraser, who drew inspiration from multiple Native American models to produce a composite portrait. The reverse of the coin features a magnificent American bison standing on a mound, an image that came to define this entire series. Above the animal, the inscription UNITED STATES OF AMERICA is paired with the traditional motto E PLURIBUS UNUM. Below the bison, the face value is declared as FIVE CENTS. This particular specimen is preserved in Fine condition, showing honest wear from its time in circulation while retaining the essential details of its iconic design.