Numismatic

1936-S Buffalo Nickel BU

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The 1936-S Buffalo Nickel stands as a remarkable example of American coinage, showcasing a design that captures the spirit of the Western frontier. Struck at the San Francisco Mint, this five-cent piece is preserved in Brilliant Uncirculated condition, allowing the fine details of its artistry to remain sharp and clear. On the obverse, the profile of a Native American man faces right, accompanied by the word LIBERTY and the date of issue, 1936. This powerful portrait is paired on the reverse with an American bison, often referred to as a buffalo, standing upon a raised mound. The reverse also displays the inscriptions UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, E PLURIBUS UNUM, and the denomination FIVE CENTS, with the distinct S mint mark positioned beneath the mound to signify its San Francisco origin. Created by the artist James Earle Fraser, this copper-nickel coin remains a favorite among those who appreciate classic United States coinage. The design avoids idealized imagery, opting instead for a rugged realism that continues to captivate observers generations after its initial release.