12 facts about 1937 Buffalo Nickel
Continuation of a Classic Series: The 1937 Buffalo Nickel was part of the ongoing Buffalo Nickel series, which began in 1913 and lasted until 1938.
Design Symbolism: The Buffalo Nickel features a Native American chief in profile on the obverse, while the reverse showcases a majestic buffalo standing on a mound.
Designer: The coin's designer, James Earle Fraser, sought to honor both Native American and American bison populations. His initials, "F" and "D," can be found on the obverse at the base.
Composition: The 1937 Buffalo Nickel is composed of 75% copper and 25% nickel, giving it its distinctive appearance.
Mint Marks: These nickels were minted in three locations: Philadelphia (no mint mark), Denver (D mint mark), and San Francisco (S mint mark).
Variety: The 1937 Buffalo Nickel comes in two major varieties: one with a three-legged buffalo and the standard variety. The three-legged variety resulted from a die issue.
Low Mintage: The 1937-D (Denver) Buffalo Nickel had a relatively low mintage, making it a collectible coin.
Great Depression Era: This coin was produced during the Great Depression, reflecting the challenging times in American history.
Collectors' Favorite: Buffalo Nickels are popular among collectors due to their unique design and historical significance.
Numismatic Rarity: The three-legged variety of the 1937 Buffalo Nickel is particularly rare and highly prized by collectors.
Numismatic Literature: There are numerous books and articles dedicated to the study and collection of Buffalo Nickels, providing valuable insights for collectors.
Historical Connection: Owning a 1937 Buffalo Nickel connects you to a chapter in American history when coinage celebrated the nation's frontier heritage and the spirit of exploration.