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The 1916 Buffalo Nickel is a noteworthy example from a series that holds a special place in American numismatic history. The Buffalo Nickel, also known as the Indian Head Nickel, was designed by James Earle Fraser and minted from 1913 to 1938. The 1916 issue is part of the early years of this series, making it a significant piece for collectors who appreciate the historical and artistic aspects of early 20th-century American coinage. This particular coin, graded Extra Fine, presents a fascinating glimpse into the era's minting processes and artistic design choices.
The Buffalo Nickel series was introduced to replace the Liberty Head design that had been in circulation since the mid-19th century. James Earle Fraser, an accomplished sculptor, was chosen to create the new design. Fraser's design was intended to celebrate the American frontier and the heritage of Native American peoples. The obverse of the coin features a detailed profile of a Native American chief. Fraser crafted the profile from a composite of different Native American figures, aiming to portray an idealized image of the noble and dignified warrior. The chief's profile is accompanied by the inscription "LIBERTY" and the year "1916," which denotes the coin's release date.
On the reverse side, the Buffalo Nickel displays an American bison standing on a mound of earth. Fraser’s design for the bison is both powerful and iconic, capturing the essence of the American West. The bison's stance, with its strong and sturdy body, symbolizes the untamed nature of the frontier. The reverse also includes the inscriptions "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" and "FIVE CENTS," indicating the denomination of the coin. The design elements of the bison and the mound are intended to evoke a sense of the expansive landscapes that characterized early American history.
The 1916 Buffalo Nickel was minted at the Philadelphia Mint, which was the primary facility responsible for producing most of the coins during this period. The "no mintmark" on the coin indicates its origin from Philadelphia, as opposed to the other minting locations like Denver or San Francisco. The Philadelphia Mint, established in 1792, played a crucial role in American coinage and was known for its high-quality production. In 1916, the Buffalo Nickel series was relatively new, having been introduced only three years earlier, which makes the 1916 edition particularly notable for collectors and historians.
The total mintage for the 1916 Buffalo Nickel was approximately 5,600,000 coins. This figure reflects the production capacity of the Philadelphia Mint during that time and the demand for coinage in the early 20th century. While the mintage is relatively high, the specific quality and preservation of individual coins are what make each one unique. The 1916 Buffalo Nickel in Extra Fine condition is especially valued by collectors because it represents a well-preserved example of the design, with distinct details still visible despite some signs of circulation.
In Extra Fine condition, the 1916 Buffalo Nickel exhibits a notable level of wear that is consistent with its age and use. The design elements, while showing moderate wear, remain clear and detailed. On the obverse, the profile of the Native American chief is still recognizable, though some finer details may be softened. The inscriptions, including "LIBERTY" and "1916," are generally readable, though they may exhibit minor wear. On the reverse side, the bison retains its general shape and stance, but the mound and the bison's features may be less sharp due to circulation. The inscriptions on the reverse are also discernible but may show signs of wear.
The 1916 Buffalo Nickel in Extra Fine condition is a valuable piece for collectors due to its historical significance and the quality of its design. This coin offers a tangible connection to the early years of the Buffalo Nickel series and reflects the artistry of James Earle Fraser. For numismatists and enthusiasts, the 1916 edition is a cherished example of American coinage and serves as a reminder of the rich heritage and craftsmanship of early 20th-century American minting.