Numismatic

1918-S Buffalo Nickel VG

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The 1918 San Francisco Mint five-cent piece represents a classic era of American coinage. Crafted from a copper-nickel alloy, this coin showcases the artistry of James Earle Fraser. The design departs from traditional neoclassical imagery, opting instead for subjects deeply rooted in the American landscape and heritage. On the obverse, a powerful profile of a Native American chieftain faces right. The simple inscription LIBERTY is placed along the upper right edge, accompanied by the 1918 date at the base of the neck. This portrait is celebrated for its realistic, textured detail, which remains visible even in this well-circulated, Very Good condition. The reverse side of the coin features a massive American bison standing atop a raised mound. Above the animal, the words UNITED STATES OF AMERICA and E PLURIBUS UNUM span the upper rim, while the denomination FIVE CENTS is positioned below the mound. Just beneath this value, the tiny S mint mark indicates its origin at the San Francisco Mint, making this century-old coin a fascinating subject for study.