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The Buffalo Nickel 1935-S in Extra Fine condition represents a final-era issue from one of the most beloved coin series in American history. Produced at the San Francisco Mint during the twilight years of the Buffalo nickel, the 1935-S stands out as a symbol of American resilience and cultural pride during the waning years of the Great Depression. Though not rare in circulated condition, the 1935-S is less commonly found in higher grades such as Extra Fine, where much of the original artistry of the design is still preserved. Its bold, distinctive imagery and modest mintage combine to make this a favored coin among collectors of classic U.S. coinage.
The Buffalo nickel series, also known as the Indian Head five-cent piece, was designed by sculptor James Earle Fraser and first issued in 1913. Fraser’s vision was to break away from the classical European designs that had long dominated U.S. coinage. Instead, he chose to highlight elements of the American frontier, depicting a proud Native American on the obverse and a powerful American bison on the reverse. Fraser’s work was deeply personal and patriotic, inspired by his childhood experiences on the plains and interactions with Native Americans. The result was a rugged and distinctly American coin design that has remained a favorite with numismatists for generations.
The obverse of the 1935-S Buffalo nickel features the familiar profile of a Native American facing right, wearing two eagle feathers tied into his braided hair. The inscription “LIBERTY” appears near the upper right rim, and the date “1935” is located at the lower left, just below the neck. In Extra Fine condition, most of the facial features remain well-defined. The brow ridge, nose, and cheekbone are sharp, and the jawline and lips retain much of their original character. The feathers and braid show minor flattening on the high points, but the overall detail is clearly visible. The word “LIBERTY” is sharp, and the date is bold and complete—particularly important on Buffalo nickels, as the date was often one of the first details to wear away in circulation.
The reverse of the coin displays the American bison standing on a flat, textured plain. Above the bison is the inscription “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” with the national motto “E PLURIBUS UNUM” directly beneath it. The denomination “FIVE CENTS” is boldly struck along the bottom edge, and just beneath it is the small “S” mintmark, indicating the San Francisco Mint. In Extra Fine condition, the bison’s form is strong and robust, with visible details in the hump, flank, and legs. The head, horn, and tail may show some softening from wear, which is typical for the series, but the overall silhouette and muscular build of the animal remain intact. The ground line beneath the bison is still distinguishable, and the inscriptions are all clearly legible.
The 1935-S Buffalo nickel had a total mintage of 10,300,000 coins, making it one of the more modestly produced issues in the later years of the series. While this number was sufficient to meet the coinage needs of the West Coast at the time, many of these coins entered circulation quickly and remained in use for decades, especially during the economic struggles of the 1930s. As a result, high-grade examples are relatively scarce today, particularly those that have not been damaged, cleaned, or excessively worn. Extra Fine specimens, with their strong remaining detail and attractive surfaces, are highly regarded by collectors seeking to complete a circulated Buffalo nickel set.
The San Francisco Mint was known for its generally lower mintage figures and sometimes weaker strike quality compared to the Philadelphia and Denver facilities. However, by 1935, improvements in the minting process helped ensure better overall consistency. The 1935-S is known to exhibit decent strike quality for a San Francisco issue, though softness in the bison’s head and the Native American’s hair above the brow is still common. In Extra Fine condition, these areas may show light wear but should not be excessively flat or lacking in definition. A well-struck 1935-S in XF grade is a highly desirable example of late-series Buffalo nickel production.
Coins graded Extra Fine (XF) show light to moderate wear across the high points but retain a strong sense of the original detail and design. On the obverse, the Native American’s facial contours remain distinct, with noticeable definition in the eye, nose, mouth, and jaw. The hair braid and feathers exhibit minor smoothing but remain well-separated and visually engaging. On the reverse, the bison’s shoulder, legs, and back show modest wear, but the texture of the fur and the animal’s powerful stance are preserved. The rim is full and the mintmark is clearly visible. These features provide an appealing mix of historical character and artistry that is difficult to find in lower-grade coins.
The surface quality of an Extra Fine 1935-S Buffalo nickel often includes pleasing natural toning, with colors ranging from light gray and tan to medium brown or golden-bronze. Original surfaces that have not been cleaned or altered are especially valued among collectors, as they reflect a coin’s natural aging process and retain better long-term value. Coins with smooth, unblemished fields and even wear are highly prized in this grade. While small contact marks or light abrasions from circulation are expected, these should be minor and not distracting to the overall aesthetic of the coin.
As a product of the Great Depression era, the 1935-S Buffalo nickel carries historical weight beyond its numismatic attributes. It was a coin of necessity, used daily by Americans facing economic hardship, rationing, and uncertainty. Yet its imagery—bold, proud, and uniquely American—served as a quiet reminder of the nation’s enduring spirit and cultural heritage. The bison, once nearly driven to extinction, had become a symbol of resilience, while the Native American portrait represented dignity and strength. For many, the coin offered both a functional tool of trade and a connection to the ideals and history of the American West.
The 1935-S Buffalo nickel in Extra Fine condition is a standout piece for collectors who appreciate both beauty and substance in their coins. It provides a nearly complete presentation of Fraser’s original design, with enough wear to demonstrate authenticity and use, but enough detail to convey the artistry and symbolism that made the series legendary. It is particularly well-suited for those building a high-grade circulated set or seeking a coin that reflects the craftsmanship of the San Francisco Mint. Though more accessible than some of the key dates, it still provides historical depth and aesthetic satisfaction worthy of any collection.
The Buffalo Nickel 1935-S Extra Fine offers collectors a rewarding glimpse into America’s numismatic past—capturing the essence of a nation shaped by its frontier history and tested by economic struggle. Its balanced design, modest mintage, and preserved details ensure its place as a lasting favorite within the series. Whether viewed as a piece of history, a work of coinage art, or a symbol of national endurance, the 1935-S in XF grade remains a compelling and highly collectible artifact from one of the most admired coin series ever produced by the United States Mint.