The 1913-D Buffalo Nickel is worth anywhere from $15 in worn condition to over $1,000 in high-grade mint state. Finding one of these coins in your pocket change or an old jar is an exciting discovery because of its historical significance and steady market value.
Understanding the Two Varieties of the 1913-D Buffalo Nickel
When you find a 1913-D Buffalo Nickel, the first thing you need to check is the reverse of the coin. This was the first year of the series, and the Mint changed the design mid-year. If you want to identify which version you have instantly, you can use the best coin identifier app to get a quick expert opinion. The “Type 1” variety features a buffalo standing on a raised mound of dirt. Because this raised mound caused the “Five Cents” text to wear away too quickly, the Mint replaced it with “Type 2,” where the buffalo stands on a flat, recessed line.
The 1913-D (Denver Mint) is particularly sought after because it has relatively low mintage numbers compared to Philadelphia issues. Collectors often look for the “D” mint mark positioned below the “Five Cents” inscription. If the coin is in decent shape, its value climbs rapidly. To ensure you aren’t missing a rare variety, consider using the CoinHix app, which helps casual collectors spot the fine details that distinguish high-value coins from common ones.
Current Market Prices for the 1913-D Buffalo Nickel
The value of your coin depends heavily on its condition and which variety it belongs to. Generally, the Type 2 coins are scarcer and command a higher premium in the collector market. If you are looking for specific 1913-D Buffalo Nickel price data to see what recent auctions have fetched, you will find that even “Average” specimens are highly liquid assets.
While a heavily worn Type 1 might fetch $15 to $20, a Type 2 in the same condition can easily start at $100. Professional grading becomes essential as the condition moves into “Extremely Fine” or “Uncirculated” territory. Most everyday Americans might not know how to grade a coin, which is why downloading CoinHix can be a game-changer for evaluating your collection right from home.
| Condition / Grade | 1913-D Type 1 Value | 1913-D Type 2 Value |
|---|---|---|
| Good (G-4) | $15 – $18 | $105 – $125 |
| Fine (F-12) | $25 – $35 | $140 – $160 |
| Extremely Fine (EF-40) | $65 – $80 | $240 – $285 |
| Uncirculated (MS-63) | $150 – $190 | $450 – $600 |
Why Condition and Mint Marks Are Critical for Value
The condition of a coin is the single most important factor determining its final sale price. A 1913-D Buffalo Nickel that has spent years in circulation will have smooth surfaces where the Indian’s hair and the buffalo’s fur should be detailed. Reviewing modern 1913 Buffalo Nickel value information shows that “Mint State” coins—those that never actually made it into people’s pockets—can sell for thousands at major auction houses like Heritage Auctions.
For the untrained eye, it can be hard to tell the difference between a coin worth $50 and one worth $500. This is where modern technology helps. The CoinHix app allows you to take a photo of your nickel and compare it to high-resolution images of graded coins. This helps you decide if it is worth spending the money to send your coin to a professional grading service like PCGS or NGC.
Key Details to Look for on Your 1913 Nickel
Aside from the “Type” of reverse, you should look at the “D” mint mark. It is located on the back of the coin, right under the words “Five Cents.” If there is no mint mark, it was minted in Philadelphia and is generally worth less. If there is an “S,” it was minted in San Francisco and is also quite valuable.
Many people ask if they should clean their old coins to make them look better. The answer is a resounding “No!” Cleaning a coin can actually destroy its numismatic value. A natural patina or even a bit of dirt is much more desirable to a collector than a coin that has been polished.
Q: Where is the mint mark on a 1913 Buffalo Nickel?
A: The mint mark is located on the reverse side (the buffalo side), directly underneath the phrase “FIVE CENTS.” A “D” stands for Denver, and an “S” stands for San Francisco.
Q: Is the 1913-D Buffalo Nickel rare?
A: While it is not the rarest coin in history, it is considered a “key date” or “semi-key date,” especially the Type 2 variety. Only about 4 million Type 2 nickels were minted in Denver, making them much harder to find than the Philadelphia versions.
Q: How can I tell if my 1913-D nickel is Type 1 or Type 2?
A: Look at the ground beneath the buffalo. If the buffalo is standing on a raised mound (a “hill”), it is Type 1. If the buffalo is standing on a flat line with the area below it hollowed out, it is Type 2.
