1913-D Buffalo Nickel Value: How Much Is It Worth Today?
The 1913-D Buffalo Nickel is worth anywhere from $15 in worn condition to over $3,500 in high-grade mint state. As the first year of this iconic design, coins minted in Denver during 1913 are highly prized by collectors for their historical significance and unique “Type 1” and “Type 2” variations.
| Condition / Grade | 1913-D Type 1 Value | 1913-D Type 2 Value |
|---|---|---|
| Good (G-4) | $15 – $20 | $110 – $130 |
| Fine (F-12) | $30 – $45 | $150 – $180 |
| Extremely Fine (XF-40) | $65 – $85 | $240 – $280 |
| Uncirculated (MS-63) | $150 – $190 | $550 – $700 |
| Choice Mint State (MS-65+) | $400+ | $3,500+ |
History of the 1913-D Buffalo Nickel
The 1913-D Buffalo Nickel marks a revolutionary turning point in American coinage. Designed by sculptor James Earle Fraser, this coin replaced the Liberty Head Nickel and introduced a rugged, uniquely American aesthetic.
When you find one of these in an old jar or collection, you are holding a piece of history from the very first year of production. Because it was a debut year, the Denver Mint produced two distinct versions, making identification crucial.
If you are unsure which version you have, using a free coin identifier app can help you distinguish between a common find and a rare treasure. Many beginners use CoinKnow to quickly snap a photo and determine if their coin has the “raised ground” or “flat ground” design.
The Denver Mint, indicated by the “D” mint mark, had lower production numbers than Philadelphia, which inherently makes these coins more sought after by professional numismatists and casual hobbyists alike.
Distinguishing the Type 1 and Type 2 Varieties
The most important factor in determining 1913-D Buffalo Nickel value is identifying the subtype. In early 1913, the coin featured the buffalo standing on a raised mound of dirt (Type 1). However, the Mint soon realized that the “FIVE CENTS” inscription on the mound would wear away too quickly in circulation.
By the middle of the year, the design was modified. The mound was flattened into a straight line, and the denomination was recessed into a protected area (Type 2).
The Type 2 variety is significantly rarer and more valuable today because it was produced for only a portion of the year in Denver. While Type 1 coins are beautiful, the Type 2 1913-D is considered a “key date” for the entire series.
If you are looking for specific 1913-D Buffalo Nickel price data by grade, you will see a massive jump in value for the Type 2 variation. Most people find Type 1 specimens, but checking the base of the buffalo is the first step to potentially finding a high-value coin.
| Design Feature | Type 1 Characteristics | Type 2 Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Reverse Ground | Raised mound/hill | Flat line/straight plane |
| “FIVE CENTS” Text | Raised above the rim | Recessed/below the line |
| Rarity | Common | Scarce to Rare |
How Grading Affects 1913-D Buffalo Nickel Value
Like all vintage coins, the physical condition—or “grade”—is the primary driver of price. Most 1913-D nickels found in circulation today fall into the “Good” or “Very Good” categories, meaning the detail on the Native American’s hair and the buffalo’s fur is mostly worn smooth.
However, if you find a coin that still shows the horn of the buffalo or the braid in the hair, the value increases dramatically. Collectors use a 70-point scale to value these items.
Because grading is subjective and difficult for beginners, tools like CoinKnow provide visual AI assistance to help you estimate where your coin lands on the scale. A “Mint State” coin, which looks like it just left the mint over 100 years ago, is where the real money is.
For those researching historical sales, checking detailed 1913-D Buffalo Nickel worth information can provide context on why a slightly cleaner coin might sell for hundreds of dollars more than a worn one.
The “D” Mint Mark Location and Importance
To ensure you have a Denver-minted coin, you must look for the small “D” on the reverse (tails) side of the nickel. On the Buffalo Nickel, the mint mark is located directly below the words “FIVE CENTS” at the bottom of the coin.
If there is no letter present, the coin was minted in Philadelphia. If there is an “S,” it was minted in San Francisco. The Denver mint mark is particularly important for the 1913 Type 2 variety, as Denver produced fewer specimens than Philadelphia that year.
When examining your coin, ensure the mint mark isn’t obscured by dirt or heavy wear. If you are having trouble seeing it, the high-resolution zoom feature in CoinKnow can help clear up any confusion.
A clear, bold “D” is essential for verifying you have the more valuable Denver version. Even a heavily worn 1913-D Type 2 is worth significantly more than a Philadelphia Type 2 in the same condition.
| Mint Location | Mintage (Type 1) | Mintage (Type 2) |
|---|---|---|
| Philadelphia (No Mark) | 30,992,000 | 29,857,186 |
| Denver (D) | 5,337,000 | 4,156,000 |
| San Francisco (S) | 2,105,000 | 1,209,000 |
Key Survival Rates and Collecting Outlook
Why is the 1913-D Buffalo Nickel so valuable in high grades? The answer lies in survival rates. While millions were minted, very few were saved by collectors in “brand new” condition. Most were used in daily commerce, paying for newspapers, transit, and bread.
The Type 2 coins, in particular, suffered because they were released later in the year, and by then, the “novelty” of the new design had worn off for the public. Fewer people thought to set aside a pristine “Flat Ground” version.
Today, finding a 1913-D Type 2 in MS-65 condition is like finding a needle in a haystack. These coins often go for thousands of dollars at major auction houses. For the average person, finding one in any condition is a great win, as even the lower grades hold a value that far exceeds their original face value of five cents.
If you are starting a collection, the 1913-D is a cornerstone coin. Whether you have a Type 1 or Type 2, you are holding the beginning of a legendary series in American numismatics.
| Top Auction Records | Grade | Price Realized |
|---|---|---|
| 1913-D Type 2 | MS-68 | $143,750 |
| 1913-D Type 1 | MS-68 | $21,150 |
Frequently Asked Questions About 1913-D Nickels
Q: Where is the mint mark on a 1913-D Buffalo Nickel?
A: The mint mark is found on the reverse (tails) side, directly below the words “FIVE CENTS” and above the rim. Look for a small “D” to confirm it was minted in Denver.
Q: Why is my 1913-D Buffalo Nickel missing the date?
A: Buffalo Nickels are notorious for having the date wear off because the date was placed on a raised part of the design. While a “dateless” 1913-D is still identifiable by its Type 1 mound, it is worth significantly less than a coin with a clear date.
Q: What is the difference between Type 1 and Type 2?
A: Type 1 features the buffalo standing on a raised mound or hill. Type 2 features a flat, straight line under the buffalo’s feet. The Type 2 is generally much more valuable.
Q: Should I clean my 1913-D Buffalo Nickel to make it look better?
A: No! Never clean your coins. Cleaning removes the original surface (patina) and can actually reduce the value of a rare coin by 50% or more. Collectors prefer coins with natural aging and wear.
Q: Is a 1913-D Nickel rare?
A: The Type 1 is relatively common in lower grades, but the Type 2 is considered a scarce coin. In high “Uncirculated” grades, both types are considered rare and highly desirable.
