The Buffalo Nickel, also known as the Indian Head Nickel, is one of the most iconic coins in American history. Designed by James Earle Fraser, this coin was first minted in the early 20th century and has remained a collector favorite ever since. The version with PCGS #3937 was struck in Philadelphia and had a huge mintage of over 32 million pieces. Even though it’s a common date, high-grade examples have broken records — one even sold for $55,200 at auction.
Key Details of the Coin
This Buffalo Nickel is made of 75% copper and 25% nickel, weighs 5.00 grams, and has a diameter of 21.20 mm. It features a plain edge and was produced at the Philadelphia Mint, which means there’s no mintmark on the coin.
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Design by James Earle Fraser
James Earle Fraser’s design for the Buffalo Nickel is considered one of the most artistic and meaningful in U.S. coin history. The obverse shows a profile of a Native American man, which is believed to be a combination of features from multiple real Native American chiefs. On the reverse, there’s a strong and powerful American bison, commonly called a buffalo.
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Historical Importance and Mintage
The Buffalo Nickel series was minted from 1913 to 1938. The PCGS #3937 refers to one of the earlier coins in this series, struck in 1913, and known as the Type 1 design (where the buffalo stands on a raised mound). With over 32 million coins produced, it was widely circulated. However, coins in top condition have become quite rare.
Record-Breaking Auction Sale
Despite its high mintage, not many Buffalo Nickels survive in perfect condition today. A well-preserved specimen of PCGS #3937 once sold at auction for $55,200. This shows how even common coins can become valuable when they are in mint state or better.
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The Buffalo Nickel (PCGS #3937) is a great example of how art and history come together in coin collecting. Designed by James Earle Fraser, it reflects America’s cultural past and wild heritage. Even though millions were made, only a few high-quality examples remain today, making them very desirable among collectors. Whether you’re just starting out or are a seasoned numismatist, adding a Buffalo Nickel to your collection is a timeless decision.
FAQ’s
What is PCGS #3937?
PCGS #3937 refers to the 1913 Buffalo Nickel, Type 1, designed by James Earle Fraser and minted in Philadelphia without a mintmark.
Why is the Buffalo Nickel important?
It represents American heritage with a Native American portrait and a buffalo, symbolizing the country’s frontier past and artistic innovation in coin design.
What is the metal composition of the Buffalo Nickel?
The coin is made of 75% copper and 25% nickel, weighing 5.00 grams with a plain edge.
How many PCGS 3937 coins were minted?
A total of 32,086,314 Buffalo Nickels were minted in 1913 at the Philadelphia Mint under PCGS #3937.
What is the auction record for PCGS #3937?
A high-grade 1913 Buffalo Nickel (PCGS #3937) once sold at auction for $55,200, showing its value in top condition.
