-
Inventory:
1 In Stock
- Product ID: 56173
Checkout
The Certified 1926-S Buffalo Nickel graded VF35 by PCGS is a well-preserved and historically significant example of one of the most challenging semi-key dates in the entire Buffalo nickel series. Struck at the San Francisco Mint during a year of reduced production, the 1926-S is prized for its low mintage, soft strike characteristics, and overall scarcity in better circulated grades. This VF35 specimen has been authenticated and graded by PCGS, ensuring that it is a problem-free, original coin with strong eye appeal for its grade. With near-Extremely Fine details and attractive surfaces, this example offers collectors a desirable midpoint between affordability and sharpness.
Designed by James Earle Fraser, the Buffalo nickel—officially known as the Indian Head nickel—was introduced in 1913 and became an enduring symbol of American frontier imagery. The series ran until 1938 and remains one of the most beloved coin types among collectors. Its bold and rustic designs reflect a uniquely American aesthetic, featuring a composite portrait of a Native American on the obverse and a rugged American bison on the reverse. The 1926-S issue, minted in the interwar period, continues this tradition but is especially noted for its low production numbers and notoriously weak strikes common to San Francisco Mint output of the era.
The obverse of the 1926-S Buffalo nickel features the iconic Native American bust, facing right, with high detail in the braid, feathers, and facial contours. “LIBERTY” is inscribed near the upper right rim, and the date “1926” is located on the shoulder just above the lower-left rim. In this VF35 example, all major obverse features are clearly defined, with only moderate wear on the high points. The feather and braid elements retain substantial texture, and the facial detail is strong for a coin in the Very Fine category, nearly reaching the clarity expected in an XF coin. The overall appearance is clean and pleasing, free from distracting blemishes or damage.
The reverse presents the American bison standing on a raised mound, surrounded by the inscriptions “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “E PLURIBUS UNUM” above, and “FIVE CENTS” below. The “S” mintmark, denoting the San Francisco Mint, is located just beneath the denomination. On this VF35 coin, the bison’s horn, shoulder, and tail are visibly outlined, with more intricate detail than typically seen in lower circulated grades. The raised lettering and rim are intact, and the fields show even, natural wear. The reverse is well-centered with balanced toning that enhances its visual appeal.
The 1926-S Buffalo nickel had a reported mintage of only 970,000 coins, making it the third-lowest business strike in the entire series. It trails only the 1921-S and 1926-D in absolute rarity and is often categorized as a semi-key or even a key-date issue depending on grade thresholds. Despite its relative affordability in lower grades, problem-free examples in VF or better condition are increasingly difficult to find. Many surviving pieces exhibit excessive wear, corrosion, or strike weakness, which elevates the desirability of PCGS-certified VF35 coins, where detail and originality are preserved.
The PCGS VF35 designation confirms that this coin displays stronger-than-average features for the Very Fine category, bordering on Extremely Fine (XF40). It represents the upper end of circulated quality and is often considered the best value grade before sharp price jumps begin in the XF and AU range. Collectors value this specific grade for its clear detail, historical authenticity, and lower acquisition cost compared to higher-grade counterparts. PCGS encapsulation provides further confidence, preserving the coin and certifying its authenticity and grade with industry-respected accuracy.
Historically, the 1926-S reflects the post-World War I coinage landscape, where production levels fluctuated with economic demands. The San Francisco Mint, in particular, saw reduced nickel output in the mid-1920s, leading to smaller mintages and less consistent strike quality. Coins from this era are also harder to find well-preserved due to their soft metal composition and heavy use in daily commerce. This makes the 1926-S not only an important date for series completion but also a key example of the challenges facing coin production during a transitional time in U.S. economic history.
Collectors building complete Buffalo nickel sets by date and mintmark view the 1926-S as an essential component, often one of the last additions due to its low availability in attractive grades. In circulated sets, the VF35 grade provides a nearly ideal combination of historical wear and preserved detail, allowing for enjoyment of the design without the premium of Mint State examples. This makes the coin suitable for type collections, intermediate-level portfolios, or more advanced cabinets seeking a high-end circulated representation of a recognized rarity.
The surfaces of this PCGS-certified VF35 example display honest, even wear with natural coloration and strong eye appeal. The coin likely features light golden-bronze or steel-gray toning, with smooth fields and well-struck legends. No distracting scratches, environmental damage, or cleaning is evident—qualities that are essential in maintaining collector value. PCGS encapsulation also ensures long-term protection and resale value, appealing to buyers who prioritize certified quality and market credibility.
The Certified 1926-S Buffalo Nickel graded VF35 by PCGS is an outstanding circulated example of a date-mintmark combination known for its scarcity, character, and rugged historical context. With a near-Extremely Fine level of detail, problem-free surfaces, and secure professional certification, it stands as a superior representative of one of the most iconic coin series in American numismatics. Whether for a key-date set, a western-mint focused collection, or a historical tribute to the Buffalo nickel legacy, this coin offers exceptional value, charm, and long-term desirability.