Numismatic

1920-D Buffalo Nickel Fine

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The 1920 Buffalo nickel, struck at the Denver Mint, stands as a classic representative of early twentieth-century American coinage. This five-cent piece, preserved in Fine condition, showcases a distinct artistic direction that departed from traditional heraldic designs to celebrate the native heritage and wildlife of the continent. On the obverse, the profile of a Native American chieftain faces right. The word LIBERTY is positioned along the upper right edge, with the year 1920 stamped clearly at the lower left. This portrait, created by sculptor James Earle Fraser, captured a highly detailed and dignified likeness that remains one of the most recognizable faces in numismatic history. The reverse side of the coin displays a massive American bison standing atop a raised mound of earth. Positioned above the animal is the legend UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, accompanied by the Latin motto E PLURIBUS UNUM. Below the mound, the denomination FIVE CENTS is clearly visible, completing a design that honors the rugged spirit of the western frontier.