Numismatic

1917-D Buffalo Nickel VF

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The 1917 Buffalo nickel stands as a classic representative of early twentieth-century American coinage. Struck at the Denver Mint during a pivotal year in global history, this five-cent piece carries the distinct 'D' mint mark on its reverse. Having circulated through daily commerce, this specimen survives in Very Fine condition, preserving the bold details of its celebrated, rustic imagery. On the obverse, the profile of a Native American chieftain faces right, accompanied by the word 'LIBERTY' and the clear date of 1917. The reverse displays a massive American bison positioned on a raised mound of earth. Above the animal, the traditional motto 'E PLURIBUS UNUM' is inscribed, while the denomination 'FIVE CENTS' and the Denver mint mark occupy the space below. This copper-nickel coin, sculpted by James Earle Fraser, captured the spirit of the American frontier. The design departed from traditional classical allegories in favor of native subjects, making it one of the most distinctly recognizable circulating coins ever produced by the United States.