Numismatic

1931-S Buffalo Nickel XF

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The 1931-S Buffalo Nickel represents a fascinating moment in United States coinage, minted in San Francisco during a transitional era. Struck in a durable copper-nickel alloy, this five-cent piece carries an iconic design by sculptor James Earle Fraser that departs from traditional neoclassical imagery to celebrate the American frontier. The obverse of the coin displays a powerful, detailed profile of a Native American, accompanied by the word LIBERTY and the clear 1931 date. This portrait was created by combining the features of multiple individuals, resulting in a composite representation of indigenous dignity. On the reverse, a massive American bison stands atop a raised mound of earth. This particular animal is identified as Black Diamond, a famous bison who lived in the Central Park Zoo. Above the beast, the motto E PLURIBUS UNUM is inscribed, while the denomination FIVE CENTS and the distinct S mint mark of the San Francisco Mint rest below, marking this coin as a well-preserved survivor in Extra Fine condition.