Numismatic

1920-S Buffalo Nickel VF

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The 1920 Buffalo nickel represents a classic era of United States coinage, showcasing a design that departs from traditional neoclassical imagery in favor of distinctly American themes. Struck at the San Francisco Mint, this five-cent piece carries the 'S' mint mark on its reverse. The coin is composed of a copper-nickel alloy, containing no precious metal, yet it remains a highly celebrated design among enthusiasts. On the obverse, a powerful profile of a Native American facing right dominates the field. The word 'LIBERTY' is inscribed along the upper right edge, while the date '1920' is positioned at the lower left on the shoulder. This portrait, created by James Earle Fraser, is renowned for its realistic, textured detail, which is still clearly visible in this Very Fine grade. The reverse of the coin features a magnificent American bison standing on a raised mound. Above the animal, the motto 'E PLURIBUS UNUM' is tucked into the upper right field. The denomination 'FIVE CENTS' is boldly inscribed along the bottom border, positioned directly beneath the 'S' mint mark that identifies its San Francisco origin.