-
Inventory:
1 In Stock
- Product ID: 23295
Checkout
The Buffalo Nickel of 1938-D/S represents a fascinating anomaly in the Buffalo Nickel series, offering collectors a unique glimpse into the intricacies of minting processes and the challenges faced by coinage facilities during the Great Depression era. With its distinctive overmintmark variety and uncirculated condition, the 1938-D/S Buffalo Nickel is a highly coveted treasure for numismatists.
Introduced in 1913, the Buffalo Nickel quickly became one of America's most beloved coin designs, thanks to the artistry of sculptor James Earle Fraser. Fraser's iconic portrayal of a Native American chief on the obverse and a majestic buffalo on the reverse captured the spirit of the American West and left an indelible mark on numismatic history.
The obverse of the 1938-D/S Buffalo Nickel features Fraser's timeless depiction of a Native American chief wearing a traditional headdress adorned with feathers. The chief's stoic expression and noble features convey a sense of strength, dignity, and reverence for the land.
On the reverse of the coin, a powerful buffalo stands atop a raised mound, with the inscription "FIVE CENTS" below. The buffalo's rugged appearance and sturdy stance evoke images of the untamed wilderness of the American frontier, symbolizing freedom, resilience, and the spirit of the West.
The 1938-D/S Buffalo Nickel was struck at the Denver Mint, but it bears the distinctive "S" mintmark of the San Francisco Mint above the date. This overmintmark variety occurred when a leftover die from the San Francisco Mint was repurposed at the Denver Mint, resulting in the "S" mintmark being inadvertently stamped over the "D" mintmark.
As a result of this minting error, the 1938-D/S Buffalo Nickel is a rare and sought-after variety among collectors. Its uncirculated condition further enhances its appeal, allowing collectors to appreciate the coin's original luster and sharp detail.
In uncirculated condition, the 1938-D/S Buffalo Nickel exhibits full mint brilliance, with no signs of wear or friction on the surfaces. The coin's design elements are sharply defined, and the fields retain their original luster, giving the coin a vibrant and eye-catching appearance.
The mintage figure for the 1938-D/S Buffalo Nickel is relatively low compared to other Buffalo Nickel varieties, adding to its scarcity and desirability among collectors. While the exact mintage number is not known, surviving examples of this variety are highly prized for their historical significance and numismatic value.
In conclusion, the 1938-D/S Buffalo Nickel in uncirculated condition stands as a testament to the ingenuity, craftsmanship, and occasional quirks of the minting process. With its unique overmintmark variety, stunning design, and scarcity, this coin holds a special place in the hearts of collectors and enthusiasts alike, offering a fascinating glimpse into America's numismatic past.