The 1926-S Buffalo Nickel is a prized treasure in the world of numismatics, revered for its rarity, historical significance, and iconic design. As part of the Buffalo Nickel series, which ran from 1913 to 1938, this coin captures the essence of the American West with its striking imagery.
Struck at the San Francisco Mint, the 1926-S issue is one of the rarest and most sought-after dates in the series due to its low mintage and scarcity in high grades, making it a must-have for serious collectors.
Historical Context
Designed by James Earle Fraser, the Buffalo Nickel was introduced in 1913 to replace the Liberty Head Nickel, featuring a Native American profile on the obverse and an American bison on the reverse.
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The 1926-S Buffalo Nickel was minted during the Roaring Twenties, a period of economic prosperity, but the San Francisco Mint produced only 970,000 of these coins—an exceptionally low mintage compared to other years and mints. This scarcity, combined with heavy circulation and the coin’s soft design prone to wear, makes well-preserved examples highly valuable and difficult to find.
Key Features
- Obverse: A right-facing Native American profile, with “LIBERTY” and “1926” along the right rim and the “S” mintmark below the date, indicating San Francisco.
- Reverse: An American bison standing on a mound, with “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” above, “E PLURIBUS UNUM” below the mound, and “FIVE CENTS” at the bottom.
- Composition: 75% copper, 25% nickel.
- Diameter: 21.2 mm.
- Weight: 5 grams.
- Design Note: The date and bison’s details, such as the horn and tail, are prone to rapid wear, making high-grade specimens with sharp strikes especially rare.
Rarity and Value
The 1926-S Buffalo Nickel’s rarity stems from its low mintage of 970,000, one of the lowest in the Buffalo Nickel series, and the fact that many coins were heavily circulated, resulting in significant wear.
High-grade examples, particularly those in uncirculated condition, are exceedingly scarce and command substantial premiums. The coin’s value varies by condition, with even low-grade examples holding significant worth due to its key date status.
Below is a chart of approximate values for the 1926-S Buffalo Nickel based on grade (data sourced from numismatic references, as of July 23, 2025):
| Grade | Approximate Value (USD) |
|---|---|
| Good (G-4) | $20.00 – $40.00 |
| Fine (F-12) | $50.00 – $100.00 |
| Very Fine (VF-20) | $150.00 – $300.00 |
| Extremely Fine (EF-40) | $500.00 – $1,000.00 |
| About Uncirculated (AU-50) | $1,500.00 – $3,000.00 |
| Uncirculated (MS-63) | $5,000.00 – $10,000.00 |
| Uncirculated (MS-65) | $20,000.00 – $40,000.00+ |
Note: Prices are approximate and can vary based on market trends, auction results, and specific coin characteristics, such as strike quality or luster. Coins graded by PCGS or NGC, especially those with strong details, may fetch higher prices.
Why It’s So Rare
The 1926-S Buffalo Nickel’s rarity and value are driven by several factors:
- Low Mintage: With only 970,000 coins struck, it is one of the lowest-mintage issues in the Buffalo Nickel series.
- Heavy Circulation: Many coins were used extensively during the 1920s and 1930s, leading to significant wear and few surviving high-grade examples.
- Design Wear: The high-relief design, particularly the date and bison’s features, wears quickly, making well-preserved coins scarce.
- Collector Demand: As a key date, the 1926-S is essential for completing a Buffalo Nickel set, increasing its desirability.
Why Collectors Love It
The 1926-S Buffalo Nickel captivates collectors for its rarity, iconic design, and connection to the American West. Its low mintage and status as a key date make it a challenging yet rewarding addition to any collection.
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The coin’s bold imagery—Fraser’s Native American and bison—evokes a romanticized era of American history, while its scarcity in high grades offers both prestige and investment potential. Whether you’re a novice or an advanced numismatist, the 1926-S is a centerpiece that elevates any collection.
Tips for Collectors
- Inspect Details: Look for coins with a legible date and clear bison details, especially the horn and tail, as these areas wear quickly.
- Authentication: Have valuable coins graded by PCGS or NGC to confirm authenticity and condition, particularly for high-grade examples.
- Storage: Store in archival-quality holders in a cool, dry environment to preserve the coin’s luster and prevent corrosion.
- Market Trends: Monitor auction results and consult reputable dealers to stay informed on values for this rare coin.
Conclusion
The 1926-S Buffalo Nickel is a rare and iconic piece of American coinage, offering a blend of historical significance, striking design, and substantial value. Its low mintage and scarcity in high grades make it a key date that collectors prize, with top examples potentially worth tens of thousands.
Whether you’re building a Buffalo Nickel set or seeking a standout piece, the 1926-S is a numismatic gem that embodies the artistry and heritage of early 20th-century America, making it a thrilling pursuit for any collector.
