Diagnostic Controls & Presets Fraser Inaugural Buffalo Nickel Types
Diagnostic Forensic Readings
Forensic Attribution Diagnostic
Real-time metallurgical and die variety cross-examination verified against certified populations.
Technical Breakdown: Physics, Metallurgy & Die Diagnostics
Designed by renowned American sculptor James Earle Fraser, the Buffalo Nickel debuted in March 1913. Fraser's original design (Type 1) portrayed the bison Black Diamond standing on a raised earthen mound. However, within weeks of commercial release, the words 'FIVE CENTS' on the high mound experienced rapid friction wear against other coins and pocket fabrics, prompting Fraser and Chief Engraver Charles Barber to redesign the base into a straight, recessed line (Type 2).
Vwear = K × (Fnormal × d) / H
Where:
• Vwear = Volumetric metal loss from the denomination lettering
• K = Dimensionless wear coefficient for cupronickel (approx. 1.2 × 10⁻⁴)
• Fnormal = Compressive pocket friction contact load (~4.5 N)
• d = Total commercial sliding distance over 3 years in circulation (~850 m)
• H = Vickers hardness of annealed 75Cu/25Ni alloy (approx. 115 HV)
On Type 1 coins, the exposed raised lettering exceeded the planchet rim height by 0.12 mm, accelerating wear by over 380% compared to the recessed Type 2 design.
Gross Weight = 5.000 grams ± 0.194 grams
Diameter = 21.21 mm | Thickness = 1.95 mm
Composition = 75% Copper, 25% Nickel (homogeneous solid solution alloy).
Documented Benchmark Auction Records
The undisputed key date of the regular-issue Buffalo nickel series. Astounding preservation with unbroken frosted luster and full horn definition.
Superb gem from the Denver Mint. Immaculate light champagne satin surfaces with razor-sharp feather braids on the Native American chieftain portrait.
Pristine sandblast matte proof. Exceptionally sharp squared edges with deep granular olive-grey surfaces struck on the medal press.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a 1913 Type 1 and Type 2 Buffalo Nickel?
On the Type 1 variety, the bison stands on a raised curved mound of dirt, and the words 'FIVE CENTS' are raised above the rim plane. On the Type 2 variety, the ground was altered to a straight, recessed line with 'FIVE CENTS' protected inside an incuse field below the line.
Why was the Buffalo Nickel redesigned in 1913 after only a few months?
Because the denomination 'FIVE CENTS' stood at the highest point of relief on the Type 1 raised mound, it wore away completely within a few months of active pocket circulation, leading to confusion in commerce and vending machines.
Which 1913 Buffalo Nickel is the most valuable?
The 1913-S Type 2 is the most valuable regular issue, with a low mintage of 1,209,000 pieces. In MS-67 condition, it commands over $140,000 at auction. The 1913-D Type 2 is also extremely scarce in gem condition.
Who posed for the Native American portrait on the Buffalo Nickel?
Sculptor James Earle Fraser stated that the portrait was a composite of three Native American chiefs who posed for him in New York: Iron Tail (Oglala Lakota), Two Moons (Cheyenne), and John Big Tree (Seneca).
What is a Matte Proof Buffalo Nickel?
Between 1913 and 1916, the Philadelphia Mint struck special collector proof Buffalo nickels using a sandblast matte finish rather than mirror fields. These coins feature razor-sharp squared rims and a distinctive fine granular texture.
How can you detect an acid-restored (Nic-A-Date) Buffalo nickel?
When a nickel's date is worn away, amateur restorers often apply ferric chloride acid ('Nic-A-Date') to chemically etch the metal and reveal the cold-worked crystal date. Authentically graded coins must never have acid damage; acid-etched coins display an unnatural chalky white, pitted splotch and carry no numismatic premium.
What is the auction record for a 1913 Buffalo Nickel?
The auction record stands at $144,000 for a breathtaking PCGS MS-67 specimen of the key date 1913-S Type 2 sold at Heritage Auctions in January 2021.