Numismatic

1931-S Buffalo Nickel VF

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The 1931-S Buffalo nickel, minted in San Francisco, stands as a striking example of early twentieth-century American coinage. This five-cent piece, composed of copper and nickel, displays a remarkable level of detail even in its circulated Very Fine condition. The coin represents a departure from traditional neoclassical designs, opting instead for themes deeply rooted in the American West. On the obverse, the profile of an American Indian faces right, accompanied by the word LIBERTY and the date of 1931. James Earle Fraser designed this iconic portrait, capturing a sense of dignity and strength. The reverse showcases a massive American bison standing on a raised mound, with the inscriptions UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, E PLURIBUS UNUM, and the denomination FIVE CENTS. The San Francisco mint mark, a small S, is positioned on the reverse below the bison, marking its origin from this specific West Coast facility.