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The Buffalo Nickel struck in 1914 at the San Francisco Mint and graded as Very Good stands as a testament to both the beauty of American coinage and the rich history of the early 20th century. Designed by James Earle Fraser, this coin features iconic imagery that has come to symbolize the spirit of the American West and remains highly sought after by collectors.
1914 marked the second year of production for the Buffalo Nickel series, which replaced the long-running Liberty Head Nickel design. Fraser's vision for the Buffalo Nickel was to capture the essence of the American frontier, and his design succeeded in doing so with its striking portrayal of a Native American chief on the obverse and a majestic buffalo on the reverse.
The obverse of the 1914-S Buffalo Nickel showcases a profile portrait of a Native American chief, believed to be a composite of several different Native American leaders. Fraser's attention to detail is evident in the intricate headdress worn by the chief, which features feathers, fur, and other traditional adornments.
On the reverse of the coin, a powerful American buffalo, commonly referred to as a bison, stands atop a raised mound. The buffalo is depicted in a dignified pose, symbolizing the strength, resilience, and untamed spirit of the American West. This iconic imagery has made the Buffalo Nickel one of the most beloved and recognizable coins in American numismatics.
The San Francisco Mint played a significant role in the production of Buffalo Nickels in 1914. Established in 1854 to process gold from the California Gold Rush, the San Francisco Mint struck coins bearing the "S" mintmark. Coins minted in San Francisco are highly sought after by collectors due to their historical significance and relative scarcity.
The 1914-S Buffalo Nickel had a total mintage of over 3 million pieces, making it one of the lower-mintage issues in the series. Despite its lower mintage, the 1914-S Buffalo Nickel remains relatively accessible to collectors, with examples available in a range of conditions.
Examining a 1914-S Buffalo Nickel graded as Very Good reveals a coin with moderate wear but still retaining significant design details. On the obverse, the profile of the Native American chief remains discernible, although some flattening of the features may be present due to circulation. The headdress worn by the chief shows signs of wear, with some loss of detail in the feathers and facial features. Despite this wear, the overall appearance of the obverse remains attractive, capturing the dignity and stoicism of the chief's visage. Turning to the reverse, the buffalo exhibits moderate wear on its body and legs, with some loss of detail on the high points of the design. The raised mound beneath the buffalo may show signs of flattening, indicative of the coin's circulation in commerce.
Despite its circulated condition, a Very Good 1914-S Buffalo Nickel retains its historical significance and numismatic appeal. Each coin serves as a tangible link to America's past, representing a pivotal moment in the nation's numismatic history and the enduring legacy of the American West.
In conclusion, the 1914-S Buffalo Nickel in Very Good condition is a prized collectible, cherished for its iconic design, historical significance, and relative scarcity. Whether as part of a comprehensive Buffalo Nickel collection or a standalone piece, this coin offers collectors the opportunity to own a piece of American history and to appreciate the artistry of James Earle Fraser's iconic design.