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The 1917-D Buffalo Nickel embodies a rich segment of American numismatic history, distinguished by its origin at the Denver Mint and its iconic design features. This coin is part of the Buffalo Nickel series, celebrated for its artistic representation of fundamental American themes—the native peoples and the wildlife of the American West. The 1917-D edition holds particular interest due to its production specifics and its role within the broader cultural and economic environment of early 20th-century America.
Designed by the eminent sculptor James Earle Fraser, the Buffalo Nickel was introduced to forge a connection with America's rugged past. The obverse of the coin features a right-facing Native American, whom Fraser described as a composite of several tribal leaders from different North American tribes. This design aimed to honor the rich history and cultural diversity of Native American peoples. The reverse showcases a bison, an animal synonymous with the Great Plains and a key symbol of the American wilderness. This design choice was influenced by a desire to represent the real and unvarnished American West, providing a tangible connection to America’s expansive natural environment.
Minted at the Denver facility, the 1917-D Buffalo Nickel saw a mintage of just 9,910,000 pieces, a relatively modest number that enhances its rarity and appeal among collectors today. The ‘D’ mint mark, positioned beneath the five-cent denomination on the reverse, denotes its Denver origin and is a crucial identifier for collectors. The limited mintage of the 1917-D variant is significant, making it a sought-after piece for those looking to capture all facets of the Buffalo Nickel series in their collections.
During its time, the Buffalo Nickel was typically distributed to banks in bulk, with little consideration for the preservation needs of future collectors. They were either rolled in paper or loosely packed in large bags, designed for circulation rather than collection. This method of distribution contributed to the typical wear and tear seen on these coins, as they were meant to be used in everyday transactions rather than preserved as collectibles. As a result, many of the coins from this period, including the 1917-D Buffalo Nickel, exhibit considerable signs of wear.
The condition of the 1917-D Buffalo Nickel classified as "About Good" reflects a coin that has experienced extensive circulation, with significant wear evident on both sides. In this state, the major design elements such as the Native American’s profile and the bison’s outline remain identifiable, but finer details like the hairlines and the fur texture are typically worn away. This level of wear is common for coins intended for widespread use and serves as a testament to the coin’s history as a piece of circulating currency during a vibrant period of American history.
In conclusion, the 1917-D Buffalo Nickel not only serves as a piece of monetary history but also as a cultural artifact, offering insight into the period in which it was created. Its designs reflect a nation in search of identity through the symbols of its past, while its minting and subsequent circulation tell the story of a currency integral to the daily lives of Americans. For collectors, the 1917-D Buffalo Nickel is not merely a collectible; it is a link to an era that profoundly shaped the American narrative, making it a valuable and evocative addition to any collection.