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The 1919-S Buffalo Nickel is an iconic piece of American numismatic history, minted in the bustling post-World War I period at the San Francisco Mint. This coin, representative of the Buffalo Nickel series, is cherished for both its artistic design and the historical context it represents, embodying the spirit and the challenges of early 20th-century America. The 'S' mintmark of this specific issue denotes its production in San Francisco, adding a geographical and historical layer to its collectibility.
The Buffalo Nickel was designed by James Earle Fraser, a notable American sculptor who sought to create a coin that was distinctly American, capturing the essence of the nation's indigenous heritage and its vast, untamed landscapes. The obverse of the coin features a Native American, believed to be a composite of three different chiefs who posed for Fraser, symbolizing the rich history and culture of America's indigenous peoples. The reverse depicts a bison, an animal deeply embedded in the American consciousness and associated with the West, positioned on a mound. This design is celebrated for its depth of symbolism and aesthetic appeal, resonating with themes of survival and resilience.
The 1919-S Buffalo Nickel boasts a modest mintage of 7,521,000 pieces, which is relatively low compared to other mintings and contributes to its rarity and desirability among collectors. Coins minted at the San Francisco Mint during this period are particularly valued for their distinct qualities and the historical significance of their place of production. The lower production numbers often result in a higher collector's value, making the 1919-S a sought-after piece in numismatic circles.
Regarding its distribution, the 1919-S Buffalo Nickel was circulated widely, intended for immediate entry into the economic stream without special packaging to preserve its long-term collectibility. Typically, these coins were distributed in large volumes to banks, either in rolls or loose in bags, ready for public use. This general method of distribution is a common trait among coins from this era, which frequently show signs of extensive wear due to their active role in daily commerce.
The condition described as "About Good" for the 1919-S Buffalo Nickel indicates that the coin has experienced considerable wear, typical of a piece that has been heavily circulated. In this state, the main design elements—Fraser's Native American portrait and the bison—are visible but significantly smoothed over, lacking the fine details present in better-preserved coins. This wear pattern not only affects the visual appeal but also serves as a testament to the coin’s extensive use in the bustling economy of post-war America.
In summary, the 1919-S Buffalo Nickel is not just a fragment of monetary history; it is a cultural artifact that bridges the past with the present, offering insights into the societal and economic dynamics of its time. For collectors, this coin represents an opportunity to own a piece of American history, rich with stories of the past and the evolution of the nation's identity. It stands as a prized element in any collection, valued not only for its monetary worth but also for its historical significance and the narrative it carries of an evolving America.