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The 1918-D Buffalo Nickel stands as a significant token of American numismatic heritage, minted in a period marked by national transformation and historical significance. Produced at the Denver Mint, this coin encapsulates the essence of early 20th-century America, featuring iconic designs that reflect both the nation's cultural roots and its frontier spirit. The 1918-D issuance is especially notable due to its distinct minting characteristics and the historical backdrop against which it was created.
James Earle Fraser, an American sculptor known for his public monuments and sculptures, designed the Buffalo Nickel to embody the American ethos. The obverse of the coin displays the profile of a Native American, an amalgamated representation based on several Native American chiefs, which symbolizes the rich history and diversity of America's indigenous peoples. The reverse features a robust bison, standing on a mound, which serves as a tribute to the untamed spirit of the American West. Fraser’s design was widely acclaimed for its bold, artistic imagery and for presenting a deeply American narrative through the medium of coinage.
The minting of the 1918-D Buffalo Nickel at the Denver Mint is a key aspect of its collectibility. With a total mintage of 8,362,000 pieces, this coin is considered relatively rare, particularly in higher grades. The 'D' mintmark located below the mound on the reverse is a critical identifier for collectors, denoting the Denver Mint as the place of production. Coins minted in Denver during this era are particularly sought after due to their lower mintage figures compared to those from the Philadelphia Mint, adding an extra layer of rarity and desirability.
In terms of distribution and packaging, the Buffalo Nickel was circulated widely with little consideration for the preservation of the coins as collectibles. Typically, these coins were distributed to banks in large quantities, either in paper rolls or loose in bags, and were meant to be put into circulation immediately. This method of distribution contributed to the extensive wear seen on most of the coins from this period, including the 1918-D Buffalo Nickel, as they were used frequently in everyday transactions.
The condition labeled as "About Good" indicates significant wear for the 1918-D Buffalo Nickel, typical for coins that have seen extensive use in commerce. This grade means that the coin's major design elements, such as the depiction of the Native American and the bison, are mostly flat but still discernible. Such wear can obscure finer details of Fraser’s artistic design, yet these coins continue to be highly valued for their historical and numismatic significance. The wear on these coins tells a story of their journey through American society during a vibrant and changing time.
Overall, the 1918-D Buffalo Nickel is not merely a piece of currency; it represents a historical artifact that offers insight into America's past. The design reflects themes of American identity and pride, while its production at the Denver Mint speaks to the geographic and economic expansion of the United States during the early 20th century. For collectors, the 1918-D Buffalo Nickel is a cherished item, not only for its monetary value but also for its cultural and historical significance, making it a distinguished addition to any collection.