The Buffalo nickel, also known as the Indian Head nickel, is a prominent United States coin that features a depiction of a Native American.
The Buffalo Nickel: A Historical Overview
Minted from 1913 to 1938, the Buffalo nickel is renowned for its distinctive design on both the obverse (front) and reverse (back). The obverse side famously displays the right profile of a Native American, a design created by sculptor James Earle Fraser. This particular Native American likeness was based on the composite features of several real individuals, specifically Iron Tail and Two Moons, prominent figures of the era.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Coin Name | Buffalo Nickel (or Indian Head Nickel) |
| Obverse Design | Right profile of a Native American |
| Design Basis | Based on Iron Tail and Two Moons |
| Designer | James Earle Fraser |
| Design Date | 1913 |
| Mint Marks | 'D' for Denver and 'S' for San Francisco, located centered under "FIVE CENTS" on the reverse. Philadelphia Mint coins lack a mint mark. |
Design Significance
The design of the Buffalo nickel aimed to capture the essence of the American West and its indigenous peoples. Fraser's detailed portrayal of the Native American figure, combined with the iconic American bison on the reverse, made this coin a significant piece of numismatic art and a popular collectible. The coin's design, introduced in 1913, marked a departure from earlier, more classical coin imagery, embracing a distinctly American theme.
