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The Buffalo Nickel of 1938-D over S is a fascinating variety that arose from a minting error at the Denver Mint. This error occurred when a working die from the San Francisco Mint, bearing the mintmark "S," was inadvertently used to overstrike a working die at the Denver Mint, resulting in the mintmark "D" being stamped over the "S." This intriguing error has captured the attention of collectors due to its rarity and the unusual combination of mintmarks.
Designed by James Earle Fraser, the Buffalo Nickel features a classic and iconic design that remains beloved by collectors and enthusiasts. On the obverse, the profile of a Native American chief is depicted, symbolizing the spirit and heritage of the American West. The reverse showcases a majestic American bison standing on a mound, further emphasizing the theme of American frontier life. Fraser's design reflects the natural beauty and ruggedness of the American landscape.
The 1938-D over S Buffalo Nickel was struck at the Denver Mint, which was one of the primary mints responsible for producing circulating coinage in the United States. The Denver Mint has a rich history dating back to the late 19th century and has contributed significantly to America's coinage system. The mintmark "D" on the 1938-D over S Buffalo Nickel indicates its origin at the Denver Mint, despite the underlying "S" mintmark from the San Francisco Mint.
Due to the error involved in the production of the 1938-D over S Buffalo Nickel, its mintage is significantly lower than that of regular 1938-D Buffalo Nickels. This rarity adds to the appeal of the coin among collectors, who seek out examples of this variety to add to their collections. The exact mintage figures for the 1938-D over S Buffalo Nickel are uncertain, but estimates suggest that only a small number were produced.
When evaluating the condition of the 1938-D over S Buffalo Nickel, collectors look for signs of wear and damage that may affect its overall appearance. A coin graded as "Fine" typically exhibits moderate wear, with some loss of detail but still retaining clear major design elements. Despite its wear, a Fine condition 1938-D over S Buffalo Nickel should still showcase the distinctive combination of mintmarks and the iconic design of James Earle Fraser.
Condition plays a crucial role in determining the value and desirability of the 1938-D over S Buffalo Nickel, as collectors often seek examples in the best possible condition. Coins that have been well-preserved and exhibit minimal signs of wear are highly coveted by collectors, who are willing to pay a premium for pristine specimens. However, even coins with moderate wear, such as those graded as Fine, hold significant value due to their rarity and historical significance.
In conclusion, the 1938-D over S Buffalo Nickel is a remarkable variety that stands out in the world of numismatics due to its unusual mintmark combination and limited mintage. Designed by James Earle Fraser and struck at the Denver Mint, this coin represents a fascinating chapter in American coinage history. Collectors and enthusiasts alike are drawn to the unique nature of this variety, making it a prized addition to any collection.