Numismatic

1930 Buffalo Nickel VF

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The 1930 Buffalo Nickel represents a classic era of American coinage, showcasing a design that departs from traditional allegorical figures to celebrate the heritage of the American West. Struck at the Philadelphia Mint, this five cent piece carries no mint mark, which is a standard characteristic for coins produced at this primary facility during that era. This particular specimen survives in Very Fine condition, preserving the distinct details that make this series so highly regarded by enthusiasts. On the obverse, the coin presents a powerful profile of a Native American, facing right. The word LIBERTY is clearly inscribed along the upper right edge, with the year 1930 positioned at the lower left, on the shoulder of the portrait. This design was created by the renowned sculptor James Earle Fraser, who sought to capture the strength and dignity of the continent's original inhabitants. The reverse of the coin features a magnificent American bison, often referred to as a buffalo, standing on a raised mound of dirt. Above the animal, the inscription UNITED STATES OF AMERICA arches across the top, accompanied by the Latin motto E PLURIBUS UNUM. Below the mound, the face value is declared as FIVE CENTS, grounding this artistic masterpiece in its functional role as everyday currency.