Numismatic

1925-S Buffalo Nickel Fine

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The 1925 five-cent piece struck at the San Francisco Mint represents a classic era of American coinage design. Created by James Earle Fraser, this copper-nickel coin departs from traditional neoclassical imagery to celebrate themes of the American West. This specific coin has survived in Fine condition, showing the honest wear of its journey through circulation while retaining the core elements of its powerful artwork. On the obverse, Fraser presents a detailed portrait of an American Indian facing right. The word LIBERTY is inscribed along the upper right edge, and the date 1925 is positioned on the lower left. The design captures a striking level of character and dignity that made this series instantly recognizable to generations of Americans. The reverse side showcases a massive American bison standing atop a raised mound of earth. Above the animal, the inscription UNITED STATES OF AMERICA and the motto E PLURIBUS UNUM span the upper curve. Below the mound, the denomination FIVE CENTS is clearly displayed, accompanied by the distinct S mint mark of the San Francisco facility, indicating its origin at the West Coast mint.