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The 1938-D Buffalo Nickel over S is a remarkable coin with a fascinating history, reflecting an intriguing error in the minting process. This specific variety is known for its distinctive overstriking of the letter "S" with the letter "D," an anomaly that has captivated collectors and numismatists alike. The Buffalo Nickel series, introduced in 1913, is renowned for its iconic design by James Earle Fraser, and the 1938-D over S variety adds a unique chapter to this storied series. The 1938-D is the final year of the Buffalo Nickel series, marking the end of an era for this beloved design.
The history behind the 1938-D over S error coin is rooted in a series of minting inconsistencies that occurred during the production of Buffalo Nickels at the Denver Mint. The 1938-D was struck with a reverse die that had previously been used for coins minted with the San Francisco Mint's "S" mintmark. Due to an error, the "S" mintmark was not fully removed before the Denver Mint used the die to strike the 1938-D coins. As a result, the "S" mintmark is visible beneath the "D" mintmark on the reverse side of these nickels, creating the sought-after overstriking error. This error coin has intrigued collectors due to its rarity and the historical context of its creation.
The design of the 1938-D Buffalo Nickel, like other coins in the series, features James Earle Fraser's classic artwork. The obverse side showcases a detailed portrait of a Native American chief, representing a composite of various tribes to symbolize the spirit of American heritage. The chief’s profile is rendered with fine details, including the intricate feathers and facial features. Surrounding the portrait is the inscription "LIBERTY" and the date "1938," marking the final year of the Buffalo Nickel series. The reverse of the coin features an American bison standing on a mound of earth, with the inscriptions "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" and "FIVE CENTS" surrounding it. This design highlights Fraser's skill in capturing the rugged American spirit and the significance of the buffalo in the nation's history.
The mintage of the 1938-D Buffalo Nickel was relatively high, with approximately 7,200,000 coins produced at the Denver Mint. However, the specific 1938-D over S variety is considerably rarer due to the error in the minting process. The overstruck mintmark error is a notable anomaly, and finding a coin in this variety adds considerable value to collectors. The overall rarity of the 1938-D over S variety compared to other Buffalo Nickels from the same year enhances its appeal among numismatists and collectors, contributing to its status as a sought-after collectible.
In terms of condition, the 1938-D Buffalo Nickel over S graded as Good presents a coin that has experienced significant wear and circulation. Coins in Good condition display considerable smoothing of the design elements, with many of the finer details worn down. On a Good-grade coin, the major features, such as the Native American chief and the buffalo, are still discernible but may appear flattened and less distinct. The inscriptions and design details are often partially worn away, reflecting the coin’s use in everyday transactions. Despite its wear, a Good-grade 1938-D over S coin remains valuable to collectors due to its unique error and historical significance.
The 1938-D Buffalo Nickel over S is a noteworthy example of minting errors that can occur during the production of coinage. This particular variety exemplifies how an unintended mistake can become a cherished piece of numismatic history. Collectors value the 1938-D over S not only for its rarity but also for its connection to the broader narrative of the Buffalo Nickel series. As the final year of the Buffalo Nickel's production, the 1938-D holds a special place in American coinage, and the overstruck error adds an extra layer of intrigue and desirability to this already iconic coin.
In summary, the 1938-D Buffalo Nickel over S is a remarkable coin with a rich history and distinctive design. Its unique error, combined with its role as the last issue in the Buffalo Nickel series, makes it a significant collectible. The coin’s condition, while reflecting its circulation and wear, does not diminish its value to collectors who appreciate its rarity and historical context. The 1938-D over S continues to be a prized piece for those interested in American numismatics and the fascinating world of minting errors.