1938-D/S Buffalo Nickel: A Rare and Mysterious Coin
The international of coin collecting has many thrilling stories hidden in it, but the 1938-D/S Buffalo Nickel holds special importance due to its specific design and ancient historical past. This coin is the result of a unprecedented Mint Error that befell during a transitional duration for U.S. Coinage. Its distinctive Over Mintmark error and historical significance make it a priceless treasure for coin collectors.
End of an Era: The Last Link to the Buffalo Nickel
The Buffalo Nickel was first designed in 1913 by James Earle Fraser and quickly became one of America’s most iconic coins.
- Its obverse featured a Native American chief.
- Its reverse featured a standing American bison.
This design reflected the spirit of the American West and was minted for 25 years.
By 1938, the Buffalo nickel technology was coming to an end. The U.S. Mint became making ready for the brand new “Jefferson Nickel” to be released later that 12 months. But simply earlier than the alternate, the Denver Mint produced one remaining batch of Buffalo nickels. This led to an interesting error, which led to the 1938-D/S Buffalo Nickel.
The Mysterious Over Mintmark Error
What makes the 1938-D/S Buffalo Nickel special is its rare Over Mintmark Error. A faint image of the “S” mintmark can be seen below the “D” mintmark on this coin.
How did this error occur?
- Some of the mint dies made for the San Francisco Mint were produced with the “S” mintmark.
- These dies were later used at the Denver Mint.
- The Denver Mint corrected the error by stamping a “D” mintmark over the “S”, but the old “S” was never completely erased.
How rare is this coin?
The exact number of this coin is unknown, but it is clear that it was minted in very small quantities. Most of the coins have been worn out in circulation, leaving very few high grade coins left. This is why the 1938-D/S Buffalo Nickel is considered a priceless treasure today.
A priceless gem for collectors
For numismatics i.e. coin collectors, the 1938-D/S Buffalo Nickel is a very special and rare coin.
- Not only is it one of the last Buffalo Nickel series, but its over mintmark error makes it even more unique.
- This coin holds a special attraction for collectors who are fond of minting errors or rare coins.
- Historically, this coin symbolizes the end of an era and the beginning of a new one.
How much is a 1938-D/S Buffalo Nickel worth?
The value of this coin depends on its condition and the visibility of the over mintmark.
- Circulated coins – Can sell for hundreds of dollars.
- Uncirculated coins – Can sell for thousands of dollars.
- If the “S” mintmark is clearly visible, it may be worth even more.
- Some coins have sold for extremely high prices at auction.
A Glimpse of History
The 1938-D/S Buffalo Nickel is not just a rare coin, it is a witness to an important moment in American coin history.
- It was the last coin in the Buffalo Nickel series.
- It was replaced by the Jefferson Nickel.
- This coin gives us an opportunity to understand Mint Craftsmanship and the intricacies of coin history.
A Unique Legacy
To this day, the 1938-D/S Buffalo Nickel remains a subject of mystery and fascination for collectors and history buffs.
- This coin shows that sometimes a mistake can become a priceless treasure.
- It is a reminder of a great discovery and an exciting journey in the world of coin collecting.
- And most importantly – perhaps somewhere there is still another rare 1938-D/S Buffalo Nickel hidden in a pile of old coins, waiting to be discovered!
FAQs
What makes the 1938-D/S Buffalo Nickel special?
It features an over mintmark error where an “S” was stamped under the “D,” making it rare and valuable to collectors.
How was the 1938-D/S Buffalo Nickel created?
A minting error occurred when dies originally intended for San Francisco (“S”) were repunched with a Denver (“D”) mintmark.
Where can I find the mintmark on a 1938-D/S Buffalo Nickel?
The mintmark is located on the reverse, just below the “FIVE CENTS” inscription.