The 1936-D Buffalo Nickel: Among the many iconic coins in U.S. history, the Buffalo Nickel holds a special place in the hearts of collectors. Designed by James Earle Fraser and first minted in 1913, the Buffalo Nickel is celebrated for its striking design and cultural significance. Within this beloved series, the 1936-D Buffalo Nickel stands out as a rare and highly sought-after issue, particularly for those seeking to complete their collections. Its unique story and scarcity make it a numismatic treasure.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Coin Name | 1936-D Buffalo Nickel |
| Mint & Mintage | Denver Mint (D), 4,420,000 coins struck |
| Composition | 75% copper, 25% nickel |
| Weight & Diameter | 5.00 grams, 21.2 mm |
| Obverse Design | Portrait of a Native American chief, with “LIBERTY” and the date “1936” |
| Reverse Design | An American bison (buffalo) standing on a mound, with “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “FIVE CENTS” |
| Historical Significance | A key date in the Buffalo Nickel series, produced during the Great Depression |
| Rarity | Highly sought-after, especially in high grades due to wear-prone design |
| Condition & Value | Well-worn examples fetch hundreds of dollars, while mint state specimens can sell for thousands |
| Collector Appeal | A must-have for Buffalo Nickel collectors due to its scarcity and iconic design |
| Legacy | Symbolizes the American West, resilience, and artistry in early U.S. coinage |
Table of Contents
The Buffalo Nickel’s Enduring Legacy
The Buffalo Nickel, also known as the Indian Head Nickel, features a powerful design that pays homage to America’s Native heritage and frontier spirit. The obverse depicts a Native American chief, while the reverse showcases an American bison, or buffalo, standing on a mound. The coin’s design was groundbreaking for its time, capturing the essence of the American West in a way that resonated with the public.
Also Read: The 1983-D Bronze Lincoln Penny: A Modern Numismatic Rarity
By 1936, the Buffalo Nickel had been in circulation for over two decades, but its production was nearing its end. The Denver Mint, one of three facilities producing nickels at the time, struck a relatively small number of Buffalo Nickels that year. The 1936-D issue, in particular, has become a key date in the series due to its low mintage and historical significance.
The Rarity of the 1936-D Buffalo Nickel
The 1936-D Buffalo Nickel is one of the rarest issues in the series, with a mintage of just 4,420,000 coins. While this number may seem substantial, many of these nickels were heavily circulated or lost over time, leaving few surviving examples in higher grades. The Denver Mint’s production was also lower than that of the Philadelphia and San Francisco Mints, adding to the coin’s scarcity.
Today, the 1936-D Buffalo Nickel is highly sought after by collectors, especially those aiming to complete a full set of Buffalo Nickels. Its rarity is further amplified by the fact that many surviving examples show signs of wear, as the coin’s design elements, particularly the date and the buffalo’s horn, were prone to fading with use. High-grade specimens are exceptionally rare and command significant premiums in the numismatic market.
A Collector’s Prize
For numismatists, the 1936-D Buffalo Nickel represents a challenging but rewarding addition to any collection. Its status as a key date makes it a cornerstone of the Buffalo Nickel series, and its historical connection to the Denver Mint adds an extra layer of intrigue. Collectors often seek out this coin not only for its rarity but also for its connection to a pivotal era in American history.
Also Read: The 1944-D Steel Wheat Penny: A Rare Anomaly in U.S. Coinage
The value of a 1936-D Buffalo Nickel varies widely depending on its condition. Well-worn examples can still fetch hundreds of dollars, while uncirculated specimens in mint state condition can sell for several thousand dollars or more. The coin’s appeal lies not only in its scarcity but also in its iconic design, which continues to captivate collectors nearly a century after its release.
A Window into the Past
The 1936-D Buffalo Nickel is more than just a rare coin; it is a tangible link to the American West and the cultural shifts of the early 20th century. Its production coincided with the Great Depression, a time of economic hardship and resilience, making it a symbol of endurance and perseverance. For collectors, this coin offers a chance to own a piece of history that reflects the spirit of its era.
A Legacy of Beauty and Rarity
The 1936-D Buffalo Nickel remains a standout in the world of numismatics, celebrated for its rarity, design, and historical significance. Its story is one of craftsmanship, scarcity, and the enduring appeal of American coinage. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a newcomer to the hobby, the 1936-D Buffalo Nickel offers a compelling connection to the past and a reminder of the artistry and history embedded in every coin.
As collectors continue to search for high-quality examples, the 1936-D Buffalo Nickel stands as a testament to the enduring allure of rare coins and the stories they tell. It is a true gem in the tapestry of American numismatics, a coin that continues to inspire fascination and admiration.
I have in my possession 1 of these Rare 1936 -D Buffalo Nickel, It is a 1 of a kind coin simply because it is blank on the opposite side of the Indian. The Buffalo side is blank. I never seen one like it so far. I am willing to sell It to the right person/collector for the right price. I also have in my possession a 1945 s wheat penny in great condition.