Introduction: What’s So Special About the 1920 Buffalo Nickel?
Ever heard of a coin that’s worth way more than its face value? That’s the magic of the 1920 Buffalo Nickel. It’s more than just five cents—it’s a piece of American history with stories etched into every detail. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just curious about cool old coins, this little nickel packs a big punch.
So, what makes it such a hot topic among numismatists (that’s coin collectors, by the way)? Let’s dive in and find out.
A Quick Glance at the Buffalo Nickel Series
When Did Buffalo Nickels Hit the Scene?
The Buffalo Nickel, also called the Indian Head Nickel, was minted from 1913 to 1938. Designed by James Earle Fraser, it featured a Native American on one side and a mighty American bison (yep, that’s a buffalo) on the other.
Why the Name “Buffalo” Nickel?
Even though the proper name is Indian Head Nickel, most folks call it the Buffalo Nickel—why? Because of that big ol’ buffalo on the back. Technically, it’s a bison, but we’ll let that slide.
The 1920 Buffalo Nickel – Breaking It Down
What Makes the 1920 Version Stand Out?
The 1920 Buffalo Nickel isn’t the rarest of the bunch, but it’s definitely valuable—especially in good condition. A lot of these coins have worn down over the years, so a well-preserved one is like finding a diamond in the rough.
Mints That Struck the 1920 Nickel
Three mints produced the 1920 Buffalo Nickel:
- Philadelphia (no mint mark)
- Denver (D)
- San Francisco (S)
If you flip your coin and see a tiny letter under the “FIVE CENTS,” that’s your mint mark.
Coin Design – It’s All in the Details
The Obverse – Meet the Native American Chief
The front of the coin features a striking portrait of a Native American. It wasn’t based on just one person. Instead, Fraser used features from multiple Native American chiefs to create a strong, respectful image.
The Reverse – The Bold American Bison
On the flip side, there’s a majestic buffalo. Legend has it that the model was a bison named Black Diamond from the Central Park Zoo. Whether that’s true or not, the image is iconic.
How Rare Is the 1920 Buffalo Nickel?
Mintage Numbers Tell a Story
Here’s how many were made:
- Philadelphia: ~63 million
- Denver: ~9.4 million
- San Francisco: ~9.7 million
So yeah, the Philly version is more common. But remember, quantity doesn’t always mean quality.
Let’s Talk Value – What’s It Worth Today?
Condition is King
Buffalo Nickels are graded on a scale. Here’s what you might expect to get for a 1920 Buffalo Nickel:
- Poor (heavily worn): $1–$3
- Fine (light wear): $10–$25
- Extremely Fine (light details visible): $50–$100
- Mint State (uncirculated): $300–$1000+
Got one with a full date and strong features? Jackpot.
Errors and Varieties – The Hidden Goldmine
1920-D and Weak Strikes
The 1920-D Buffalo Nickel is known for weak strikes, meaning the image didn’t stamp clearly. While that sounds like a flaw, it actually makes the coin more desirable to collectors.
Double Die Errors
Found a coin where some parts look like they’re printed twice? That’s a double die error—a minting mistake that can boost value significantly.
How to Spot a Fake (Yep, They Exist)
Look for These Red Flags
- Wrong weight or metal tone
- Blurry or soft details
- No wear in high points when it should have some
Not sure if it’s real? Take it to a pro. Better safe than sorry.
How to Store Your 1920 Buffalo Nickel
Keep It Safe, Keep It Clean
You want to protect your coin like a baby bird. Here’s how:
- Use acid-free coin holders
- Avoid touching with bare hands
- Store in a cool, dry place
Should You Clean It? Nope.
Seriously, don’t. Cleaning a coin can ruin its value. Even if it looks dirty, that’s its charm!
Collecting Buffalo Nickels – A Fun Hobby or Investment?
Why People Love Collecting Them
- They’re small pieces of history
- The designs are beautiful and rugged
- Some are seriously valuable
Completing a Set is the Ultimate Challenge
Trying to get every Buffalo Nickel from 1913 to 1938? That’s the thrill of the chase.
Where to Buy or Sell a 1920 Buffalo Nickel
Best Places to Buy
- Online marketplaces (eBay, Etsy – but be cautious!)
- Coin dealers
- Coin shows and expos
Where to Sell for the Best Price
- Auction houses for high-grade nickels
- Local dealers
- Online collectors’ groups
Always get multiple opinions before selling. You don’t want to undersell a gem.
Buffalo Nickel Fun Facts You Didn’t Know
The Nickel That Wore Out Too Fast
These nickels wore out their details quickly in circulation, especially the date area. That’s why many are hard to read today.
A Nickel That Needed a Redesign
By 1938, the design was retired because it was tough to mint and didn’t hold up well over time. Enter: the Jefferson Nickel.
Tips for New Collectors
Start Small, Aim Big
Don’t feel pressured to buy the rarest coin. Start with common, affordable ones, and learn the ropes.
Learn to Grade Coins
Grading helps you spot value. Read guides, watch YouTube videos, or ask experts.
Join a Community
There are tons of online forums and local coin clubs. Talk shop, ask questions, and make friends!
Is the 1920 Buffalo Nickel Right for You?
Whether you’re into coins for the thrill, the history, or the investment, the 1920 Buffalo Nickel deserves a place in your collection. It tells a story of American heritage, rugged artistry, and the golden age of coin design.
Conclusion: A Small Coin With Big History
At first glance, the 1920 Buffalo Nickel might just look like old pocket change. But once you understand its story, design, and collector’s value—it becomes something more. It’s a link to the past, a miniature masterpiece, and a treasure worth hunting for.
So, if you ever come across one, don’t just toss it aside. That little five-cent piece could be the crown jewel of your coin collection.
FAQs: Let’s Clear Up Some Last-Minute Questions
1. What’s the most valuable 1920 Buffalo Nickel ever sold for?
A top-grade 1920-D Buffalo Nickel in MS-66 condition has fetched over $20,000 at auction. Pretty wild for a nickel, right?
2. How do I know if my Buffalo Nickel is real?
Check weight, metal tone, and detail sharpness. If unsure, take it to a professional coin grader or dealer.
3. Is the 1920-S Buffalo Nickel rarer than the 1920-D?
They’re close in mintage, but 1920-S is typically harder to find in good condition, making it a bit more sought after.
4. Can I find Buffalo Nickels in circulation today?
Very unlikely, but not impossible. Some people have gotten lucky with old rolls of coins from banks.
5. Should I invest in Buffalo Nickels?
They’re a great entry point for collectors and can be a solid long-term hold—especially rare dates and mint errors.
Want more coin-collecting guides like this? Let me know, and I’ll dig up more golden nuggets of history! 🪙