Whitman Expo
1936 Satin Finish Nickel PR Values
Details
When the US Mint resumed the production of proof coins in 1936, the first Buffalo nickels of that proof series were struck with a satin finish similar to the matte proofs of a generation earlier. This did not prove popular with collectors, and the satin finish was quickly terminated in favor of a brilliant proof finish, and some collectors categorically refer to the satin proofs as Type 1 proofs while the Brilliant proofs are dubbed Type 2. About 2,000 are estimated to exist, with most encountered in the PR64-67 range. Several dozen have been certified as PR68, and PCGS has graded two as PR69.
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:
4,420
Coinage Type:
Buffalo nickel
Coinage Years:
1913-1938
Composition:
75% copper; 25% nickel
Varieties and Classification
Variety:
Satin Finish
Physical Characteristics
Weight:
5 gr
Weight:
0.1608 oz
Strike Type:
Proof
Diameter:
21.2 mm
Coin Shape:
Round
Design Details
Designer:
James Earle Fraser
Obverse Lettering:
LIBERTY, 1936
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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