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Learn And Explore The Enigmatic 1930 Buffalo Head Nickel

butchkaliva December 29, 2024

What is a 1930 Buffalo Head Nickel?

The 1930 Buffalo Head Nickel is a five-cent piece struck by the United States Mint from 1913 to 1938. It was designed by James Earle Fraser and features a Native American chief on the obverse and a bison on the reverse.

The Buffalo Head Nickel was the first U.S. coin to feature a Native American, and it is one of the most popular and recognizable coins in American history.

The coin was struck in both Philadelphia and Denver, and there are several different varieties of the coin, including some that are quite rare and valuable.

The 1930 Buffalo Head Nickel is a beautiful and historic coin that is a popular collectible among coin enthusiasts.

1930 Buffalo Head Nickel

Obverse: Features a Native American chief
Reverse: Features a bison
Designer: James Earle Fraser
Composition: 75% copper, 25% nickel
Weight: 5 grams
Diameter: 21.2 mm

The 1930 Buffalo Head Nickel is a beautiful and historic coin that is a popular collectible among coin enthusiasts. It is also a reminder of the important role that Native Americans have played in the history of the United States.

1. Obverse

The obverse of the 1930 Buffalo Head Nickel features a Native American chief. This is a significant design element, as it was the first time a Native American had been depicted on a U.S. coin.

Symbolism: The Native American chief is a symbol of the strength and resilience of the Native American people.
History: The design was inspired by Chief Iron Tail, a Lakota Sioux chief who was a friend of James Earle Fraser, the coin's designer.
Controversy: The design was controversial at the time, as some people felt that it was disrespectful to depict a Native American on a coin.
Legacy: The design is now considered to be one of the most iconic in American coinage.

The Native American chief on the obverse of the 1930 Buffalo Head Nickel is a reminder of the important role that Native Americans have played in the history of the United States.

2. Reverse

The reverse of the 1930 Buffalo Head Nickel features a bison. This is a significant design element, as it is one of the most iconic images in American coinage.

Symbolism: The bison is a symbol of the American West and the strength and power of the United States.
History: The design was inspired by a bison that Fraser saw at the Bronx Zoo.
Controversy: The design was controversial at the time, as some people felt that it was too simplistic.
Legacy: The design is now considered to be one of the most iconic in American coinage.

The bison on the reverse of the 1930 Buffalo Head Nickel is a reminder of the important role that the American West has played in the history of the United States.

3. Designer

James Earle Fraser was a prominent American sculptor best known for designing the 1930 Buffalo Head Nickel. Fraser was born in Winona, Minnesota, in 1876 and studied art at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago and the Acadmie Julian in Paris. He was a prolific artist who created a wide range of works, including sculptures, medals, and coins.

Connection to the 1930 Buffalo Head Nickel: Fraser was commissioned to design the Buffalo Head Nickel in 1911. He based the design on his earlier sculpture "The End of the Trail," which depicted a weary Native American chief on horseback. Fraser's design for the Buffalo Head Nickel was controversial at the time, but it is now considered to be one of the most iconic coins in American history.
Fraser's Artistic Style: Fraser was known for his realistic and detailed sculptures. He often depicted Native Americans and other historical figures in his work. His sculptures are characterized by their strong sense of movement and emotion.
Fraser's Legacy: Fraser was a major figure in the American art scene of the early 20th century. His work has been exhibited in museums around the world and he is considered to be one of the most important American sculptors of his time.

Fraser's design for the 1930 Buffalo Head Nickel is a testament to his skill as an artist and his understanding of American history and culture. The coin is a beautiful and enduring work of art that continues to be admired by collectors and historians alike.

4. Composition

The 1930 Buffalo Head Nickel is composed of 75% copper and 25% nickel. This composition gives the coin its distinctive color and durability.

Copper is a relatively soft metal, so the addition of nickel hardens the coin and makes it more resistant to wear and tear. Nickel also gives the coin its silvery color.

The composition of the 1930 Buffalo Head Nickel is significant because it makes the coin more durable than coins made of other metals, such as silver or gold. This durability is important because it allows the coin to circulate for longer periods of time without becoming damaged.The composition of the 1930 Buffalo Head Nickel also has a practical significance. The coin's composition makes it a good conductor of electricity, which is why it is often used in electrical applications, such as in batteries and electrical wiring.In conclusion, the composition of the 1930 Buffalo Head Nickel is an important factor that contributes to its durability, color, and practical significance.

5. Weight

The weight of the 1930 Buffalo Head Nickel is 5 grams. This weight is significant for several reasons:

Durability: The weight of the coin gives it durability and makes it more resistant to wear and tear. This is important because it allows the coin to circulate for longer periods of time without becoming damaged.
Composition: The weight of the coin is also an indication of its composition. The 1930 Buffalo Head Nickel is composed of 75% copper and 25% nickel. This composition gives the coin its distinctive color and durability.
Value: The weight of the coin can also affect its value. Coins that are made of heavier metals, such as gold or silver, are typically more valuable than coins that are made of lighter metals, such as copper or nickel.
History: The weight of the 1930 Buffalo Head Nickel is also significant from a historical perspective. The coin was struck during a time when the United States was experiencing a period of economic growth and prosperity. The weight of the coin reflects the value that was placed on money during this time.

In conclusion, the weight of the 1930 Buffalo Head Nickel is a significant factor that contributes to its durability, composition, value, and historical significance.

6. Diameter

The diameter of the 1930 Buffalo Head Nickel is 21.2 mm. This measurement is significant for several reasons:

Standardization: The diameter of the coin is standardized, which means that all 1930 Buffalo Head Nickels have the same diameter. This standardization is important because it allows the coins to be easily stacked and counted, and it also ensures that the coins can be used in vending machines and other automated devices.
Durability: The diameter of the coin also contributes to its durability. A larger diameter makes the coin more resistant to bending and warping, which can damage the coin and reduce its value.
Aesthetics: The diameter of the coin also affects its aesthetics. A larger diameter gives the coin a more substantial appearance, which can make it more appealing to collectors and investors.

In conclusion, the diameter of the 1930 Buffalo Head Nickel is an important factor that contributes to the coin's standardization, durability, and aesthetics.

FAQs about the 1930 Buffalo Head Nickel

The 1930 Buffalo Head Nickel is a popular and valuable coin among collectors. Here are some frequently asked questions about this coin:

Question 1: What is the value of a 1930 Buffalo Head Nickel?

Answer: The value of a 1930 Buffalo Head Nickel depends on its condition and rarity. A coin in good condition can be worth several hundred dollars, while a rare coin in mint condition can be worth thousands of dollars.

Question 2: How can I tell if my 1930 Buffalo Head Nickel is rare?

Answer: There are several ways to tell if your 1930 Buffalo Head Nickel is rare. One way is to look for errors or variations in the coin's design. Another way is to check the coin's mint mark. Some mint marks are more rare than others, and this can affect the value of the coin.

Question 3: Where can I buy or sell a 1930 Buffalo Head Nickel?

Answer: You can buy or sell a 1930 Buffalo Head Nickel at a coin dealer, at a coin show, or online. It is important to do your research before buying or selling a coin, so that you can get a fair price.

Question 4: How can I care for my 1930 Buffalo Head Nickel?

Answer: The best way to care for your 1930 Buffalo Head Nickel is to store it in a safe place, away from moisture and heat. You should also avoid handling the coin with your bare hands, as this can damage the coin's surface.

Question 5: What is the history of the 1930 Buffalo Head Nickel?

Answer: The 1930 Buffalo Head Nickel was designed by James Earle Fraser and was first struck in 1913. The coin was produced until 1938, when it was replaced by the Jefferson Nickel. The Buffalo Head Nickel is a popular and valuable coin among collectors, and it is considered to be one of the most beautiful coins ever produced by the United States Mint.

These are just a few of the most frequently asked questions about the 1930 Buffalo Head Nickel. If you have any other questions, please feel free to contact a coin dealer or visit the website of the American Numismatic Association.

The 1930 Buffalo Head Nickel is a fascinating and valuable coin with a rich history. By understanding the answers to these FAQs, you can better appreciate and care for your own Buffalo Head Nickel.

Transition to the next article section:

Now that you know more about the 1930 Buffalo Head Nickel, you can continue reading to learn about other popular and valuable coins.

Conclusion

The 1930 Buffalo Head Nickel is a fascinating and valuable coin with a rich history. It is a popular collectible among coin enthusiasts and a symbol of the American West. The coin's unique design, featuring a Native American chief on the obverse and a bison on the reverse, makes it one of the most iconic coins in American history.

The 1930 Buffalo Head Nickel is a reminder of the important role that Native Americans have played in the history of the United States. It is also a reminder of the beauty and diversity of the American West. The coin is a valuable piece of American history and a cherished collectible for many people.