Numismatic

1918 Buffalo Nickel XF

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The 1918 Buffalo nickel is a classic example of early twentieth-century American coinage, showcasing a design that departs from traditional classical allegories. Created by sculptor James Earle Fraser, this five-cent piece captures the spirit of the American frontier through two distinct and powerful subjects. The coin is composed of base metal rather than precious silver or gold, yet its cultural and artistic value remains incredibly rich. On the obverse, a highly detailed profile of a Native American man faces right. The design is complemented by the simple inscription of the word LIBERTY and the year 1918. Fraser created this composite portrait by blending the features of multiple individuals, resulting in a dignified and realistic representation. The reverse of the coin presents a massive American bison standing atop a raised mound. This powerful animal dominates the design, with the inscriptions UNITED STATES OF AMERICA and E PLURIBUS UNUM positioned above it, while the denomination FIVE CENTS is placed below. Because this issue was produced at the Philadelphia Mint, it does not bear a mint mark, leaving the space beneath the mound clean. This particular coin survives in Extra Fine condition, preserving the fine textures of the native headdress and the heavy coat of the bison for modern observers to appreciate.