The Buffalo nickel, first minted in 1913 and last seen in circulation in 1938, holds a special place in the hearts of coin collectors. Despite the challenges in its design and relatively modest market value today, these coins are cherished for their historical significance.
In 1934, only the Philadelphia and Denver mints produced Buffalo nickels, as the San Francisco mint did not participate in that year’s production. Interestingly, the value of the 1934 Buffalo nickel remains moderate despite its age. Since no proof coins were minted between 1917 and 1935, collectors can only find regularly struck coins from this period.
Table of Contents
- Value Chart For 1934 Nickel
- Historical Significance of the 1934 Buffalo Nickel
- 1934 Buffalo Nickel Types
- Design of the 1934 Buffalo Nickel
- Grading Guide For 1934 Buffalo Nickel
- 1934 Buffalo Nickel Value Guides
- Rare 1934 Buffalo Nickel Errors List
- Where to Sell Your 1934 Buffalo Nickel?
- What to look for in a 1934 Buffalo Nickel?
- What is the Priciest Nickel from the Buffalo series?
- FAQs On 1934 Buffalo Nickel Value
- Final Thoughts
Value Chart For 1934 Nickel
| Condition | 1934 Nickel | 1934 D Nickel |
|---|---|---|
| Good | $3 | $3 |
| Very good | $3 | $3 |
| Fine | $4 | $6 |
| Very fine | $5 | $12 |
| Extra fine | $15 | $30 |
| AU | $30 | $55 |
| MS 60 | $65 | $100 |
| MS 63 | $105 | $200 |
Historical Significance of the 1934 Buffalo Nickel
The Buffalo nickel stands out in American coinage history for its unique design, which diverged from the traditional depictions of symbolic figures like Lady Liberty. This change was driven by President Theodore Roosevelt’s vision for more artistic and representative coinage, a goal that took nine years to realize from his initial request in 1904.
The reverse of the coin features a bison, symbolizing the wildlife that roamed the prairies long before European settlers arrived. The obverse honors Native Americans, acknowledging their profound and often tragic history.
Produced from 1913 to 1938, the Buffalo nickel’s intricate design posed significant challenges for minting, making it a complex and impractical coin to produce. Despite these difficulties, the Buffalo nickel has become one of the most collectible pieces of American coinage, treasured for its artistic and historical value.
1934 Buffalo Nickel Types
| Location | Year | Minted |
|---|---|---|
| Philadelphia | 1934 nickel | 20,213,003 |
| Denver | 1934 D nickel | 7,480,000 |
| Total | NA | 27,693,003 |
Design of the 1934 Buffalo Nickel
James Earle Fraser designed the Buffalo nickel after the then Secretary of the Treasury rejected Laura Gardin Fraser’s proposed design. These coins were minted from 1913 to 1938, with the 1934 nickels produced exclusively at the Denver and Philadelphia mints.
Obverse Design of the 1934 Buffalo Nickel
The obverse of the 1934 Buffalo nickel features a composite profile of three Native American chiefs adorned with a traditional feather headdress. This side of the coin also includes the date, the initial “F” for Fraser, and the word “LIBERTY.”
Reverse Design of the 1934 Buffalo Nickel
The reverse side showcases an American bison standing on a patch of ground, with the denomination inscribed below. The name of the United States arcs along the top rim, accompanied by the required motto in the upper right corner.
Technical Specifications of the 1934 Buffalo Nickel
| Specifications | Details |
|---|---|
| Face Value | Five cents ($0.05) |
| Shape | Round |
| Compound | 3/4 copper with 1/4 nickel |
| Coin Thickness | 0.07677 inches (1.95 mm) |
| Coin Diameter | 0.83504 inches (21.2 mm) |
| Coin Weight | 0.17637 ounces (5 g) |
| Edge | Plain |
Grading Guide For 1934 Buffalo Nickel
| Sheldon Scale | Grade |
|---|---|
| 1 | Basal State-1 |
| 2 | Fair |
| 3 | Very Fair |
| 4, 5, 6 | Good |
| 7, 8, 10 | Very Good |
| 12, 15 | Fine |
| 20, 30 | Very Fine |
| 40 | Extremely Fine |
| 50 | About Uncirculated |
| 60 | Mint State |
| 65 | Mint State |
| 70 | Mint State |
Grading a 1934 Buffalo nickel follows the same process as grading any other coin. You can either follow detailed guidelines to grade the coin yourself or send it to a professional grading service. Professional grading can enhance the coin’s value at auctions, but it may not be cost-effective for lower-grade nickels, as the grading fee could exceed the coin’s value.
For a more accurate assessment of your coin’s value, refer to our Buffalo Nickel grading guide. Knowing the exact grade of your coin is essential for determining its true worth.
1934 Buffalo Nickel Value Guides
In 1934, the Philadelphia and Denver mints produced a total of 27,693,003 Buffalo nickels, with no proof coins minted that year. This year saw only a few variations and some error coins, making most of these nickels relatively affordable and primarily of interest to series collectors.
1934 No Mint Mark Nickel Value
The Philadelphia mint produced 20,213,003 Buffalo nickels in 1934, all without a mint mark, as was customary at the time. Despite their age, these coins are generally accessible to collectors, even those on a budget.
- Circulated Condition: Typically valued between $2 and $15.
- About Uncirculated (AU): Approximately $30.
- Mint State (MS 60 to MS 67):
- Lower grades (MS 60): Less than $65.
- MS 65: Around $265.
- MS 66: About $625.
- MS 67: Up to $4,200.
The rarest and most valuable 1934 nickel is in MS 67+ grade, which fetched $12,000 at an auction on October 24, 2019.
1934 D Nickel Value
The Denver mint produced 7,480,000 Buffalo nickels in 1934, all marked with a “D” under the denomination on the reverse. Despite the lower mintage, circulated coins from both mints have similar values.
- GOOD to EXTRA FINE Condition: $3 to $30.
- About Uncirculated (AU): $36 to $55.
- Mint State (MS 60 to MS 66):
- MS 60: Around $100.
- MS 61: Approximately $110.
- MS 62: About $125.
- MS 63: Around $200.
- MS 64: About $250.
- MS 65: Approximately $575.
- MS 66: Up to $2,250.
A rare 1934 D MS 66+ nickel sold for $23,500 at Legend Rare Coin Auctions on January 30, 2020, highlighting its scarcity and high value.
1934 (Proof) Buffalo Nickel Value
The US Mint ceased producing Buffalo nickels for collectors in 1917, resuming proof production only in 1936. Therefore, no proof Buffalo nickels exist for 1934. The series includes proofs from the following years:
- 1913 Type 1: 1,520 proofs
- 1913 Type 2: 1,514 proofs
- 1914: 1,275 proofs
- 1915: 1,050 proofs
- 1916: 600 proofs
- 1936: 4,420 proofs
- 1937: 5,769 proofs
Rare 1934 Buffalo Nickel Errors List
The 1934 Buffalo nickel is known for a few notable errors, primarily due to issues during the minting process, such as misalignment, worn-out equipment, or accidental use of incorrect planchets. Here are the four most well-known error types:
1934 Buffalo Nickel Three-legged Buffalo Error
This popular error results from excessive die polishing, which partially or completely erases the bison’s front right leg. In 1934, this error was produced at the Denver mint, with an estimated 40,000 pieces entering circulation.
These coins are highly sought after, with prices varying based on condition. Circulated examples can range from a few dollars to several hundred, while mint state specimens can fetch thousands.
1934 Buffalo Nickel Off-center Error
An off-center strike occurs when the coin is improperly positioned between the dies during minting, resulting in an image that is not centered. While the most collectible off-center coins are those with about 50% off-center strikes, such examples are not found among 1934 nickels.
However, some Philadelphia-minted nickels with a 10% off-center error, showing a blank space along the rim, can be valued at approximately $550 to $600.
1934 Buffalo Nickel Struck on the Wrong Planchet Error
Occasionally, a smaller one-cent planchet is mistakenly used, leading to a coin with part of the design cut off. These coins, with a diameter of 0.75 inches (19.05 mm) instead of the standard 0.83504 inches (21.21 mm) for nickels, often miss parts of the date and lettering. A copper-colored example in MS 62 grade can be valued at around $4,600.
1934 Buffalo Nickel Strike Through Error
This error occurs when a foreign object is caught between the die and the planchet, leaving an impression on the coin’s surface. Such errors are found on 1934 nickels minted in Denver, though the highly textured design can make them difficult to spot. These coins are typically valued at around $200.
Where to Sell Your 1934 Buffalo Nickel?
Knowing the value of your 1934 Buffalo nickels is just the first step. To sell them, consider reputable online platforms. For a comprehensive list of the best places to sell coins online, including pros and cons, check out our guide: Best Places To Sell Coins Online (Pros & Cons).
What to look for in a 1934 Buffalo Nickel?
When evaluating a 1934 Buffalo nickel, several key factors can significantly impact its value and desirability:
Condition and Grade
The coin’s condition is paramount. Look for coins with minimal wear and clear details, especially in high-relief areas like the Native American’s headdress and the bison’s fur. Coins in mint state (MS) grades, particularly MS 65 and above, are highly prized.
Mint Marks
Identify whether the coin has a mint mark. The 1934 Buffalo nickels were minted in Philadelphia (no mint mark) and Denver (marked with a “D”). Coins from Denver are generally more valuable, especially in higher grades.
Errors and Varieties
Check for notable errors such as the three-legged buffalo, off-center strikes, or coins struck on the wrong planchet. These errors can significantly increase a coin’s value. The three-legged buffalo error, in particular, is a sought-after variety.
Luster and Eye Appeal
A coin’s luster and overall eye appeal can also affect its value. Coins with a strong, original luster and attractive toning are more desirable to collectors.
Historical Significance
Consider the historical context and significance of the coin. The 1934 Buffalo nickel is part of a beloved series that reflects American heritage, making it a valuable addition to any collection.
What is the Priciest Nickel from the Buffalo series?
The most expensive Buffalo nickel is an error coin, the 1918/7 D MS 65, which sold for $350,750 on August 16, 2006. Other notable high-value nickels include a 1926 S MS 66 from the San Francisco mint, sold for $322,000, and a 1913 Type 2 MS 68 from the Denver mint, sold for $143,750.
Philadelphia-minted Buffalo nickels also hold auction records:
- 1913 PR 68 Type 1: $96,937.50 (Legend Rare Coin Auctions, September 2, 2021)
- 1913 PR 68 Type 2: $66,700 (Bowers & Merena, August 12, 2005)
- 1927 SP 65 Special Strike: $47,150 (Heritage Auctions, April 1, 2009)
FAQs On 1934 Buffalo Nickel Value
How much is the 1934 No Mint Mark Buffalo nickel worth?
Philadelphia-minted 1934 nickels, which lack a mint mark, are generally affordable. Circulated specimens range from $0.45 to $34, while uncirculated ones can vary widely in price. Most uncirculated coins cost between $36 and $480, with MS 67 examples valued at $2,650 to $3,180.
Which Buffalo nickels minted in 1934 are the most expensive?
The most expensive 1934 D MS 66+ nickel, featuring an Indian chief on the obverse and a Buffalo on the reverse, sold for $23,500 at Legend Rare Coin Auctions on January 30, 2020. Another high-value coin, a 1934 MS 67+ nickel, sold for $12,000 at Heritage Auctions on October 24, 2019.
What makes a 1934 Buffalo nickel rare?
While 1934 Buffalo nickels are relatively common and available in various grades, many were struck in high relief, leading to faster wear and damage. This makes high-grade specimens rarer but not exceptionally difficult to find.
Final Thoughts
The 1934 Buffalo nickel is a fascinating piece of American numismatic history. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a novice, understanding the factors that influence its value can help you make informed decisions.
From mint marks and errors to condition and historical significance, each aspect plays a crucial role in determining the worth of these iconic coins.