NNP Encyclopedia data is provided in cooperation with Whitman Brands, based on catalog data organized by the Greysheet Identification System (GSID).
Entry Details
PCGS Number: 3939 Coin Date: 1918/7-D Denomination (Short): 5c Denomination (Long): 5 Cents Desg: MS Mint Mark: D Composition: 75% copper; 25% nickel Mintage: 8,362,000 Strike Type: Business Coinage Type: Buffalo nickel Coinage Years: 1913-1938 Mint Location: Denver Diameter: 21.2 Weight (Grams): 5 Weight (Ounces): 0.1608 Designer: James Earle Fraser Edge: Plain Obverse Description: James Earle Fraser's famous and simple design depicts a Native American chief with the word LIBERTY from 1-2 o'clock. The date is placed on the lower left of the chieftain's bust. Reverse Description: A full portrait of the bison, Black Diamond, with the words UNITED STATES oF AMERICA at the top periphery with the motto E PLURIBUS UNUM just underneath. The denomination FIVE CENTS is spelled out at the bottom. For the Type 1, the denomination is embossed on a flat surface. General Notes:
Considered one of the most important rarities by various numismatic experts, the 1918/7-D nickel takes the cake as one of the rarest Buffaloes. It’s rare in all grades, even the lowest circulated grades, and virtually elusive in the Gem range. The coin was created when two hubs, one dated 1917 and the other 1918, were used to impress a single working die. The coin also bears a characteristically left-leaning “D” mintmark, and this is one of the key diagnostics in determining an authentic version of this coin from a fake.
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This coin was first recognized as an error in 1930, and ever since it has become a coin of nearly legendary status, particularly so among Buffalo nickel enthusiasts. This demand has put much pressure on the prices of all examples of this coin. Perhaps 85 to 110 are known in uncirculated grades, and but a tiny handful in MS65 or above, where pieces regularly realize six figures when those examples hit the trading circles. PCGS #: 3939 NGC ID: 22RJ
