american nickels of the 20th century

3 min read 23-11-2024

Meta Description: Explore the fascinating history of 20th-century American nickels! This comprehensive guide covers key designs, rare varieties, and valuable collecting tips for Buffalo nickels, Jefferson nickels, and more. Discover how to identify valuable coins and build your own impressive collection. Start your numismatic journey today!

The Buffalo Nickel (1913-1938)

The 20th century began with the iconic Buffalo nickel, officially known as the Indian Head nickel. Designed by James Earle Fraser, it featured a majestic American bison on the reverse and a profile of a Native American on the obverse. Its striking design made it instantly popular.

Key Features of the Buffalo Nickel:

Obverse: Profile of a Native American, often interpreted as a composite of several different tribes.
Reverse: A powerful depiction of an American bison, symbolizing the American West.
Composition: Nickel (25%) and copper (75%).
Minting: Minted at the Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco mints.

Finding Valuable Buffalo Nickels:

Certain Buffalo nickels are highly sought after by collectors. These include:

Error coins: Coins with minting errors, such as off-center strikes or doubled dies, can be very valuable.
Mint marks: Nickels minted at specific mints (especially San Francisco) can command higher prices.
Condition: The condition (grade) of the coin significantly impacts its value. Uncirculated examples are the most valuable. [Link to a reputable coin grading guide]

The Jefferson Nickel (1938-Present)

In 1938, the Buffalo nickel was replaced by the Jefferson nickel, featuring a portrait of President Thomas Jefferson. Designed by Felix Schlag, this design remains in use today, making it one of the longest-running coin designs in US history.

Key Features of the Jefferson Nickel:

Obverse: Profile of Thomas Jefferson.
Reverse: Initially featured Monticello, Jefferson's plantation home. Later reverses have included variations commemorating different aspects of American history and culture. (See below for more detail).
Composition: Nickel (75%) and copper (25%).

Jefferson Nickel Reverse Variations:

The Jefferson nickel's reverse has undergone several changes over the years, adding another layer of complexity and interest for collectors. These variations include:

Monticello Reverse (1938-present): The original and most common design.
Westward Journey Nickel (2004-2005): A series of five different designs commemorating westward expansion.
Bicentennial Nickels (1965-1967): Special designs celebrating the nation's 200th anniversary. (See additional section below for more detail.)
50th Anniversary of the Westward Journey Nickel: To be released later.

Finding Valuable Jefferson Nickels:

While generally less valuable than early Buffalo nickels, certain Jefferson nickels can still be quite valuable to collectors. Look for:

Proof coins: These coins are specially struck for collectors and have a mirror-like finish.
Mint errors: Similar to Buffalo nickels, minting errors can increase a Jefferson nickel's value significantly.
Specific years and mint marks: Certain years and mint marks are more scarce than others. (Consult a price guide for specifics.)

The Bicentennial Nickels (1965-1967)

The period of 1965-1967 saw the introduction of special Jefferson nickels in honor of the US Bicentennial. These coins featured a unique reverse design, showcasing a different scene from American history each year. This made them instantly popular and now these are some of the most valuable American nickels available to collectors.

Key Features of the Bicentennial Nickels:

1965: A depiction of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
1966: A scene portraying the landing of the Pilgrims at Plymouth Rock.
1967: A representation of the first Continental Congress.
Obverse: The standard Jefferson nickel obverse remained unchanged.

Finding Valuable Bicentennial Nickels:

These special nickels are sought after by many collectors, especially in mint condition.

Mint State (MS): Uncirculated coins are in demand, making them more valuable than circulated coins.
Proof condition: Proof bicentennial nickels are highly sought after due to their quality and rarity.

Building Your Nickel Collection

Collecting 20th-century American nickels can be a rewarding hobby. Start by focusing on a specific area, like Buffalo nickels or a particular year of Jefferson nickels. Use resources like online coin catalogs and price guides to learn more about different varieties and their values. Join a coin club or online community to connect with other collectors and learn from their experiences. Remember, careful handling and storage are critical to maintaining the value of your collection. Always handle coins with gloves if you plan to grade them for potential sale.

Conclusion

The American nickels of the 20th century offer a fascinating glimpse into American history and artistry. From the powerful imagery of the Buffalo nickel to the enduring design of the Jefferson nickel, these coins hold a special place in numismatic history. Whether you are a seasoned collector or just beginning your journey, exploring the world of 20th-century American nickels is sure to be a rewarding experience. Remember to always research before buying, and use reliable grading and pricing sources to ensure you are making informed collecting decisions. Happy collecting!