Whitman Expo
1920 Nickel MS Values
Details
The 1920s were off to a roaring start, and that was no exception to the Buffalo nickel. The Philadelphia Mint struck more than 63 million examples, leaving plentiful numbers behind for collectors today. In circulated condition, the 1920 nickel is a decidedly common coin, though in uncirculated grades it is about as difficult as any of the other Philly-mint coins from the period, with Gem uncirculated examples scarce, though not necessarily rare. There are even at least a couple dozen or so available in the MS67 range encased in PCGS or NGC plastic.
Obverse: 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: 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.
Mint & Coinage Details
Mint Location:
Philadelphia
Mintage:
63,093,000
Coinage Type:
Buffalo nickel
Coinage Years:
1913-1938
Composition:
75% copper; 25% nickel
Physical Characteristics
Weight:
5 gr
Weight:
0.1608 oz
Strike Type:
Business
Diameter:
21.2 mm
Coin Shape:
Round
Design Details
Designer:
James Earle Fraser
Obverse Lettering:
LIBERTY, 1920
Obverse Designer:
James Earle Fraser
Reverse Lettering:
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, E PLURIBUS UNUM, FIVE CENTS
Reverse Designer:
James Earle Fraser
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