The 1916 Buffalo Nickel is part of one of America’s most loved coin series. These coins are known for their strong design, rich history, and collectible value. Whether made at the Philadelphia Mint or the San Francisco Mint, this is a great coin that many collectors seek.
In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about the 1916 Buffalo Nickel—how to spot the mint mark, its place in the Buffalo Nickel series, how it was made, and what the coin values are today.
What is the Buffalo Nickel?
The Buffalo Nickel was made from 1913 to 1938. It shows a Native American on the front and an American bison (often called a buffalo) on the back. It’s also known as the Indian Head Nickel.
The design was created by James Earle Fraser and has become one of the most iconic in U.S. coin history. Many collectors love it for its bold look and historical feel.
The 1916 Buffalo Nickel
In 1916, the U.S. Mint produced Buffalo Nickels at three locations:
- Philadelphia Mint (no mint mark)
- Denver Mint (D mint mark)
- San Francisco Mint (S mint mark)
Each of these coins is part of the 1916 set, but their coin values and rarity are different depending on the mint mark location.
Mint Mark Location: Where to Find It
If you want to know where your 1916 Buffalo Nickel was made, look on the back of the coin, just under the words “FIVE CENTS.” That’s where you’ll find the mint mark—if there is one.
- No mint mark = Philadelphia Mint
- “D” = Denver Mint
- “S” = San Francisco Mint
Knowing the mint mark location is important because it helps you figure out how rare your coin might be and how much it’s worth.
Coin Values for the 1916 Buffalo Nickel
Here are the estimated coin values based on mint and condition:
| Mint Location | Grade: Good (G-4) | Grade: Fine (F-12) | Grade: Mint State (MS-63) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Philadelphia (No Mark) | $3 | $10 | $120 |
| Denver (D) | $8 | $25 | $200 |
| San Francisco (S) | $12 | $40 | $300+ |
As you can see, the San Francisco Mint version is usually worth the most, especially in higher grades.
How These Coins Were Made
Buffalo Nickels were made using a stamping tool called a die. In 1916, the die design was slightly changed to reduce wear and make the details stand out better. This means coins from this year may look a bit sharper than earlier ones.
However, Buffalo Nickels are still hard to find in perfect shape. The words “FIVE CENTS” often wore down fast, even in normal use. That’s why high-grade coins are more valuable today.
Why the 1916 Buffalo Nickel Is a Great Coin
There are many reasons why the 1916 Buffalo Nickel is considered a great coin:
- It’s over 100 years old.
- Part of the beloved Buffalo Nickel series.
- Easy to find in coin shops and collections.
- Valuable in higher grades.
- A strong design that honors Native American and American wildlife history.
Even if you’re just starting out, adding this coin to your collection is a smart move.
Grading and Certification: NGC & PCGS
If you think your 1916 Buffalo Nickel is in very good condition, you can send it to NGC or PCGS for grading. These companies will:
- Check if it’s real
- Give it a grade
- Put it in a special holder to keep it safe
- Add it to the coin index for future tracking
Having a certified coin makes it easier to sell and often increases its value
Conclusion
The 1916 Buffalo Nickel is a must-have for collectors of U.S. coins. It belongs to the historic Buffalo Nickel series and offers exciting variety through its three different mint marks. Whether made at the Philadelphia Mint or the rare San Francisco Mint, each version holds historical and collector value.
With the help of grading services like NGC & PCGS and guides like the Coin Index, it’s easy to track your coin’s value and enjoy building a strong collection. Start your hunt today—you might just find a great coin hiding in plain sight!
FAQ’s
Where is the mint mark on a 1916 Buffalo Nickel?
Look just below “FIVE CENTS” on the back of the coin.
Which 1916 Buffalo Nickel is the most valuable?
The 1916-S from the San Francisco Mint is usually worth the most in high grades.
Can I clean my Buffalo Nickel to make it look better?
No, cleaning coins can lower their value. Always leave them as they are.
