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The Certified Buffalo Nickel 1913-S Type 1 MS65 NGC coin is a notable piece in the panorama of American numismatics, encapsulating the pioneering spirit and cultural heritage of early 20th-century America. Introduced in 1913, the Buffalo Nickel is a product of an era that sought to imbue the nation's coinage with a sense of identity and artistry, drawing on Native American imagery and the rugged ethos of the American West. This specific coin, minted in San Francisco as denoted by the 'S' mark, belongs to the first type of the series, characterized by the buffalo standing on a mound, a design that was later modified to increase the die's longevity.
Designed by sculptor James Earle Fraser, the obverse of the coin features a right-facing portrait of a Native American, a composite of several individuals Fraser claimed to have used as models. This imagery aimed to honor the culture and history of America's indigenous peoples. The reverse boasts a majestic American buffalo, said to be modeled after Black Diamond, a bison then residing in the New York Zoological Gardens. The Type 1 design showcases the buffalo atop a raised mound, which includes the denomination and mint mark. The blending of these iconic American symbols on the coin's design reflects a period when the country was looking to its roots and the untamed frontier to forge its identity.
This particular coin has been graded MS65 by the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC), indicating it is in gem uncirculated condition with strong luster, sharp detail, and minimal marks or abrasions. Such a high grade is especially significant for a coin minted in the early 20th century, highlighting its exceptional preservation and the care it has received over the decades. Coins of this grade are highly sought after by collectors for their rarity, beauty, and historical value.
The 1913-S Type 1 Buffalo Nickel is notable not only for its design and the craftsmanship of its minting but also for its mintage history. Being part of the inaugural year of the Buffalo Nickel series, it carries particular historical significance. The 'S' mint mark and the Type 1 designation add layers of collectibility, with the San Francisco Mint known for its smaller production runs compared to other mints, further enhancing the coin's rarity and appeal. Collectors cherish this edition for its embodiment of the era's artistic and cultural aspirations, as well as for its nuanced place within the broader narrative of American coinage.
The MS65 grading by NGC underscores the coin's superb condition, a remarkable feat for a piece of its age. This grade assures collectors of the coin's quality, promising minimal signs of wear and maximum retention of its original design details. Such a level of preservation makes the coin a coveted piece for serious numismatists, representing a significant investment in American historical and cultural heritage.
In collecting coins like the Certified Buffalo Nickel 1913-S Type 1 MS65 NGC, enthusiasts are not merely acquiring pieces of metal but are preserving pieces of American history. This coin offers a window into the national mood of its time, reflecting the values, aspirations, and artistic sensibilities of early 20th-century America. Its design, historical context, and outstanding condition make it a standout piece, emblematic of a period when the nation sought to define itself through symbols that spoke to its past and its ambitions for the future.
In conclusion, the Certified Buffalo Nickel 1913-S Type 1 MS65 NGC is more than just a collector's item; it is a tangible piece of American legacy, encapsulating the spirit of an era that sought to blend the country's rich indigenous and natural heritage into its coinage. Its exceptional condition, significant historical value, and exquisite craftsmanship make it an indispensable addition to any collection, cherished by those who value the art and history embedded in numismatic treasures.