Numismatic

1916-D Buffalo Nickel XF Details

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In 1916, the Denver Mint produced a five-cent piece that remains one of the most celebrated designs in American coinage. Struck in a copper-nickel alloy, this coin showcases the artistic vision of sculptor James Earle Fraser, who departed from traditional neoclassical allegories to capture authentic imagery of the American West. The obverse presents a powerful profile of a Native American, rendered with deep texture and realistic detail. The simple inscription of the word LIBERTY and the date 1916 curve along the right edge of the coin, allowing the portrait to dominate the field. On the reverse, a massive American bison stands atop a raised mound of earth. This particular design variation highlights the animal in its natural environment, accompanied by the national mottoes and the denomination of FIVE CENTS. This specific specimen has survived in Extra Fine condition, preserving the bold lines and rustic textures that make this series a favorite among numismatic enthusiasts.