The $25,000 Buffalo Nickel: Understanding the True Value of Key Dates

The Real Market Value of High-Grade Buffalo Nickels

While social media often exaggerates coin values, a 1913-S Type 2 Buffalo Nickel in PCGS MS-66 condition has a legitimate market value of $25,000. Here are the facts collectors need to know:

What Makes This Nickel Valuable

1. Key Date Rarity
   • Only 1.2 million minted (lowest mintage of series)
   • Fewer than 100 survive in Mint State condition
2. Condition Premium
   • MS-66 is near-perfect quality
   • Full details on buffalo’s horn and headband
   • Original mint luster preserved
3. Historic Significance
   • First year of the Buffalo nickel series
   • Features the modified “Type 2” design

How to Identify a $25,000 Specimen

Authentication Checklist

✅ Date/Mint Mark: Must be 1913-S
✅ Design Type: Buffalo on raised mound (Type 2)
✅ Weight: Exactly 5.0 grams
✅ Grading: PCGS/NGC MS-66 or higher

Visual Inspection Points

• Obverse: Complete LIBERTY on headband
• Reverse: Full horn detail on buffalo
• Surfaces: No visible marks at 5x magnification

Grading & Value Breakdown

Where This Coin Actually Sells

1. Heritage Auctions – $23,500 (2023 sale)
2. Stack’s Bowers – $24,100 (2022 sale)
3. Private Dealer Sales – $20,000-$25,000

Smart Collecting Advice

1. Beware of graded coins priced under $15,000 – likely overgraded
2. Always verify certification numbers with PCGS/NGC
3. Consider XRF testing for metal composition