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The Buffalo Nickel 1935-D in Extra Fine condition is a well-preserved example from the later years of one of America’s most iconic coin series. Produced at the Denver Mint, the 1935-D issue came during a period when the United States was slowly emerging from the depths of the Great Depression. While not a rare date in the Buffalo nickel series, the 1935-D holds appeal for collectors due to its historic timing, consistent strike quality, and attractive design. As part of the final stretch of the series, which ended in 1938, this coin represents both the resilience of American coinage and the closing chapter of a much-loved era in numismatics.
The Buffalo nickel series, formally known as the Indian Head nickel, was introduced in 1913 and designed by renowned sculptor James Earle Fraser. Fraser’s design departed dramatically from the neoclassical motifs of previous U.S. coinage, instead celebrating distinctly American themes. The obverse featured a realistic portrait of a Native American man, while the reverse depicted a strong, majestic American bison. Fraser’s work was intended to honor the cultural and natural heritage of the United States, and it quickly became a favorite among collectors and the public alike. Even decades after the series ended, the Buffalo nickel remains one of the most admired designs in U.S. coinage history.
The obverse of the 1935-D Buffalo nickel displays the right-facing profile of a Native American, complete with braided hair and a feathered headdress. The word “LIBERTY” appears near the rim at the upper right, while the date “1935” is placed just below the neckline on the left side. In Extra Fine condition, this obverse still shows strong definition across most elements. The high points such as the cheekbone, eyebrow ridge, and the top of the headdress feathers may show slight wear, but the eye, lips, hair braid, and other facial features remain clear and bold. The word “LIBERTY” and the date are fully readable, and the coin’s rim remains intact and well-formed.
The reverse of the coin features a muscular American bison standing on a flat, textured field. Above the bison are the inscriptions “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and the motto “E PLURIBUS UNUM.” The denomination “FIVE CENTS” is centered at the bottom, with the “D” mintmark for the Denver Mint located just below it. In Extra Fine condition, the buffalo retains much of its original definition, with visible detail in the fur along the shoulders, back, and legs. The horn, tail, and hooves may show some wear, but they are still distinguishable. The lettering remains strong, and the surface texture of the ground beneath the bison is evident, adding to the overall sharpness and appeal of the coin.
The Denver Mint struck 12,092,000 Buffalo nickels in 1935, a figure that places this issue firmly among the more common dates in the series. Nevertheless, its moderate mintage and wide circulation mean that truly well-preserved examples are far less common than worn or damaged ones. Many Buffalo nickels from this period entered circulation quickly and were subject to the rigors of everyday use. As a result, locating problem-free specimens in Extra Fine condition with strong strikes and original surfaces is still a rewarding endeavor for collectors, especially those assembling a full date-and-mintmark set of the series.
Buffalo nickels are known for having striking inconsistencies, especially in earlier years, but by 1935 the minting process had improved. The 1935-D is generally known for better overall strike quality than many earlier San Francisco or even some Philadelphia issues. While some weakness can still be observed in areas such as the bison’s head or the hair above the Native American’s forehead, most examples—especially in higher circulated grades like Extra Fine—display a pleasing amount of detail. Coins from the Denver Mint in the 1930s tend to be sharply impressed compared to earlier issues, adding to the appeal of well-struck examples from this year.
In Extra Fine (XF) condition, the 1935-D Buffalo nickel exhibits light but even wear across the coin’s highest points. On the obverse, the portrait of the Native American retains much of its fine detailing, particularly in the hair braid and feather. The facial expression, a key feature of Fraser’s design, remains well-defined. On the reverse, the bison’s powerful physique is still evident, with fur lines visible on the shoulder and back. The “FIVE CENTS” inscription is bold, and the “D” mintmark is clear and undamaged. The rims on both sides are full, and the fields, though showing minor signs of handling, remain smooth and free from major flaws.
The color and toning of an Extra Fine 1935-D Buffalo nickel are often soft gray to medium brown, with subtle golden or steel-blue highlights depending on storage and exposure. Coins with original surfaces—those that have not been cleaned or altered—are especially prized. Patina from natural aging adds to the coin’s historical allure and is viewed as a sign of authenticity. Some XF coins may show faint contact marks or circulation abrasions, but these are generally acceptable and do not detract from the coin’s overall appearance. The combination of surviving detail, smooth fields, and aged toning makes a well-preserved XF example both attractive and collectible.
Historically, the 1935-D Buffalo nickel holds significance as a product of the mid-Depression era. The country was still reeling from the economic hardships of the early 1930s, and coins such as the Buffalo nickel were critical in daily transactions. Yet the imagery on the coin remained a proud tribute to American resilience, culture, and strength. By 1935, the nation was slowly stabilizing under the New Deal, and coins like the Buffalo nickel continued to circulate widely across a recovering country. The design offered a sense of continuity and familiarity during uncertain times, cementing its role in both economic and cultural life.
Among collectors today, the 1935-D in Extra Fine condition is appreciated for its balance of affordability, historical character, and artistic beauty. It is a common enough issue to be found without significant difficulty, yet uncommon in higher circulated grades with problem-free surfaces. For those building a date-and-mintmark set of Buffalo nickels, the 1935-D represents a satisfying entry—accessible but still offering depth and substance. The coin’s design excellence, paired with its solid strike and age-earned wear, gives it lasting value both as a collectible and as a tangible piece of American heritage.
The Buffalo Nickel 1935-D Extra Fine stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of one of the most iconic coin designs in U.S. history. It represents a mature example of the series, struck at a time when the country was emerging from adversity and looking ahead with renewed hope. With its bold portraiture, classic bison reverse, and durable copper-nickel composition, the 1935-D combines beauty, history, and collectibility in one compact form. For enthusiasts of early 20th-century coinage, it remains a compelling and rewarding piece to own, capturing the artistry and spirit of a defining American era.