Numismatic

1917 Buffalo Nickel AU

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The 1917 five-cent piece stands as a classic representative of early twentieth-century American coinage. Minted in Philadelphia, this particular issue carries no mint mark, a traditional feature of the main facility's production during this era. This specimen survives in a well-preserved state, classified as Almost Uncirculated, which allows observers to appreciate the finer details of its celebrated artwork. On the obverse, the coin presents a profile of a Native American, a composite portrait created by designer James Earle Fraser. The word LIBERTY is inscribed along the right edge, matching the clear engraving found on the physical piece. The design captures a dignified and realistic representation of indigenous peoples, contrasting sharply with the stylized allegorical figures of earlier currency. Turning the coin over reveals a massive American bison positioned on a raised mound. Above the animal, the motto E PLURIBUS UNUM is partially visible, while the denomination FIVE CENTS is clearly struck below the mound. This reverse design celebrates the natural heritage of the American West, capturing the physical power of the bison in remarkable detail.