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The 1917 Buffalo Nickel, also known as the Indian Head Nickel, is a notable coin from the early 20th century that holds a special place in American numismatic history. Introduced in 1913, the Buffalo Nickel was designed by James Earle Fraser and was produced until 1938. The 1917 issue represents a specific year within this series, offering collectors a glimpse into the era's coinage and its design evolution. As a coin minted during the early years of the series, the 1917 Buffalo Nickel reflects the distinctive style and features that characterized the series, while also showcasing the specific attributes of that year's production.
The design of the Buffalo Nickel is a tribute to the American frontier and its Native American heritage. On the obverse, the coin features a detailed profile of a Native American chief. Fraser's design is a composite of several Native American figures, which captures the noble and dignified appearance of the American Indian. The chief is depicted with a prominent headdress, and the word "LIBERTY" is inscribed along the upper left edge of the coin, with the year of minting, "1917," placed directly below. The reverse side of the coin displays an American bison, also known as a buffalo, standing on a mound of earth. The inscriptions on the reverse include "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" above the bison and "FIVE CENTS" below, emphasizing the coin's denomination.
The 1917 Buffalo Nickel was minted at the Philadelphia Mint, the primary facility responsible for producing coins during this period. The Philadelphia Mint was established in 1792 and was known for its role in striking a wide variety of coins. The 1917 Buffalo Nickel bears no mintmark, as it was struck at the Philadelphia facility, which did not use a mintmark for coins produced there. The production of the Buffalo Nickel continued at the Philadelphia Mint until the end of the series in 1938.
The mintage of the 1917 Buffalo Nickel was approximately 20,233,000 coins, reflecting the high demand for this denomination during that year. This relatively large mintage means that the 1917 Buffalo Nickel is more readily available compared to some other years in the series. However, the specific condition of the coin plays a crucial role in determining its value and appeal to collectors. In Extra Fine condition, the 1917 Buffalo Nickel exhibits a notable degree of wear while retaining a significant amount of detail and character.
In Extra Fine condition, the 1917 Buffalo Nickel displays moderate wear on its high points, with the details of the Native American chief and the buffalo still prominently visible. The profile of the chief is well-defined, though some of the finer details, such as the individual feathers of the headdress, may be slightly softened. The word "LIBERTY" and the date "1917" are clear, but may show signs of light wear. On the reverse side, the bison retains its general shape and stance, with the mound of earth and the inscriptions "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" and "FIVE CENTS" still legible. The coin's surface may exhibit light scratches or marks consistent with its age and circulation, but the overall design remains appealing and collectible.
The 1917 Buffalo Nickel in Extra Fine condition is a valuable addition to any numismatic collection. It offers insight into the early years of the Buffalo Nickel series and highlights the artistry of James Earle Fraser's design. While not as rare as some other issues within the series, the 1917 Buffalo Nickel remains a cherished piece for collectors and enthusiasts, reflecting the historical significance and enduring appeal of this iconic American coin.