What Percentage of Copper Is in a Buffalo Nickel?

The "buffalo" nickel was struck by the U.S. Mint from 1913 to 1938. It is so named because it features a buffalo on the reverse side, with a Native American on the front. It is alternatively called a bison or Indian head nickel.

Composition

The nickel is composed of 75 percent copper and 25 percent nickel.

Size

The coin is 21 mm in diameter and weighs 5 grams.

Values

The coin is most commonly found in well-worn "good" and "fine" conditions. Older variations in these conditions can fetch $5 to $15, while nickels from the 1930s are usually only worth a dollar or two.

History

The coin was designed by James Earle Fraser. The buffalo is allegedly modeled after one called "Black Diamond" at the New York Central Park Zoo.

Rarities

Matte proofs were made for collectors the first four years of the coin's mintage (1913-1916) and are hard to find. They are generally valued at around $1,000.

References

• United States Coins 2008; R.S. Yeoman; 2008

Resources

• Best Coin website