The Buffalo Nickel shares the same specifications as the prior series for the denomination. The composition consists of 75% copper and 25% nickel. Each coin has a standard weight of 5 grams, or 77.19 grains, with a diameter of 21.2 mm. The edge of the coin is plain.
For pieces struck at the Denver or San Francisco Mint, the mint mark of either “D” or “S” appears below the inscription “FIVE CENTS” on the reverse. Coins struck at Philadelphia do not contain a mint mark, as was the case for all coins of this era.
Because of the placement of the date, Buffalo Nickels which have experienced circulation may become “dateless.” This refers to coins where the date has been completely worn away due to circulation.
- Designer: James Earle Fraser
- Dates: 1913-1938
- Composition: 75% copper, 25% nickel
- Diameter: 21.2 mm
- Weight: 5.00 grams
- Edge: plain
- Mint Mark: none (Philadelphia), “D” (Denver), “S” (San Francisco)
