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The Buffalo Nickel of 1913 marks the inception of one of the most iconic coin series in American numismatic history. Designed by James Earle Fraser, this coin holds a special place in the hearts of collectors and enthusiasts alike. The Type 1 variety, distinguished by the mound on which the buffalo stands, represents the first iteration of Fraser's design, offering a glimpse into the rich history and artistry of early 20th-century coinage.
James Earle Fraser's design for the Buffalo Nickel is celebrated for its evocative portrayal of the American West. On the obverse, a proud Native American chief adorned in a traditional headdress gazes stoically into the distance. The reverse features an American bison standing atop a raised mound, with the words "FIVE CENTS" inscribed below. Fraser's meticulous attention to detail and masterful execution capture the rugged beauty and spirit of the American frontier.
The 1913 Type 1 Buffalo Nickel was struck at three different mint facilities: Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco. These coins bear no mintmark if struck at the Philadelphia Mint, while those minted at Denver display a "D" mintmark and those from San Francisco feature an "S" mintmark. The Type 1 variety, with its raised mound, was only produced for a short time before being replaced by the Type 2 variety later in the same year.
The mintage figures for the 1913 Type 1 Buffalo Nickel vary by mint facility. Philadelphia struck the highest number of coins, followed by Denver and San Francisco. Despite being the first year of production, the 1913 Type 1 Buffalo Nickel saw relatively high mintages, reflecting the demand for small denomination coinage during this period.
Coins graded Extra Fine (XF) are highly desirable among collectors for their superior condition and minimal wear. An XF 1913 Type 1 Buffalo Nickel will exhibit light wear on the highest points of the design, such as the chief's headdress and the bison's shoulder. The overall detail remains sharp and well-defined, with much of the original mint luster still visible.
When examining an XF 1913 Type 1 Buffalo Nickel, collectors should look for signs of wear consistent with its grade. While these coins generally display light wear, they may also exhibit some minor surface abrasions or marks attributable to circulation and handling. However, any imperfections are typically minor and do not detract significantly from the coin's overall appearance.
Collectors prize XF examples of the 1913 Type 1 Buffalo Nickel for their historical significance, artistic beauty, and relative scarcity in high grades. Each XF coin represents a well-preserved specimen from the inaugural year of the Buffalo Nickel series, offering collectors a tangible connection to this important period in American coinage history.
In conclusion, the 1913 Type 1 Buffalo Nickel in Extra Fine condition embodies the spirit of the American West and serves as a testament to James Earle Fraser's enduring legacy. With its captivating design, historical significance, and scarcity in high grades, this coin continues to captivate collectors and enthusiasts, preserving a piece of numismatic history for generations to come.