The 1917-S Buffalo Nickel value ranges from $15 in heavily worn condition to over $10,000 for rare high-grade specimens found by collectors today. If you have discovered one of these iconic American coins in an old jar or a family collection, you might be holding onto a piece of history that is worth a significant amount of money.
History and Identification of the 1917 San Francisco Buffalo Nickel
The 1917-S Buffalo Nickel is a fascinating piece of American history, minted during the early years of the James Earle Fraser design. This coin features a powerful portrait of a Native American on the obverse and a majestic American bison on the reverse. The “S” mint mark, which signifies it was produced at the San Francisco Mint, is located on the reverse side, just below the words “FIVE CENTS” and under the mound where the buffalo stands.
Finding this tiny “S” is crucial because it often indicates a much lower mintage compared to coins from the Philadelphia Mint. Because only about 4.1 million of these were struck, they are considerably harder to find today. If you are struggling to see the details clearly, you should use a free coin identifier app to zoom in on the mint mark and confirm the coin’s origin before proceeding with a sale.
Many people find these coins in “cull” condition, where the date is nearly worn away. However, for a 1917-S, even a partially visible date holds value. If you’re wondering about the specific market trends for your discovery, the CoinHix app can provide real-time updates on what similar coins are selling for at local auctions and online marketplaces.
Evaluating the Condition and Grade of Your Coin
As with any vintage item, the physical condition of your nickel plays the biggest role in determining its final price. Coin collectors use a 70-point scale to grade coins, ranging from “Good” (heavily worn) to “Mint State” (looks like it just came from the mint). For the 1917-S, the most common grade found by non-collectors is “Good” or “Very Good.” In these conditions, the buffalo’s horn is usually worn flat, and the hair details on the Native American portrait are smooth.
As the grade improves, the price climbs exponentially. A coin in “Fine” condition will show a partial horn on the buffalo, while an “Extremely Fine” specimen will show sharp detail in the braids of the hair. Professional collectors often seek out “Uncirculated” versions, which have never been spent. You can see how the quality shifts the price by reviewing this 1917-S Buffalo Nickel price chart, which highlights the premium paid for well-preserved surfaces.
If you believe your coin is in exceptional shape, it is worth having it professionally “slabbed” or graded by a service like PCGS or NGC. Before spending money on grading fees, however, it is a smart move to use the CoinHix app to compare your coin against high-resolution photos of graded examples to see if it truly is a high-value candidate.
1917-S Buffalo Nickel Value Comparison Table
To help you understand the current market, we have compiled a table showing the estimated values based on the coin’s condition. Remember that these prices are estimates and can fluctuate based on the specific “eye appeal” of the individual coin.
| Condition / Grade | Estimated Value (USD) |
|---|---|
| Good (G-4) | $15 – $25 |
| Very Good (VG-8) | $35 – $50 |
| Fine (F-12) | $80 – $110 |
| Very Fine (VF-20) | $150 – $225 |
| Extra Fine (EF-40) | $350 – $450 |
| About Uncirculated (AU-50) | $650 – $900 |
| Mint State (MS-63 or Higher) | $2,500 – $10,000+ |
Rarity and Why the 1917-S Is Special
Compared to the 1917 Philadelphia nickel (which has no mint mark) and the 1917-D (Denver), the San Francisco version is the most sought after in higher grades. While 1917-D nickels are also rare, the “S” mint during this era often suffered from “weak strikes,” meaning the coins didn’t always come out with crisp, sharp details even when they were brand new.
Because of this manufacturing quirk, a 1917-S with a sharp, clear date and a fully visible buffalo tail is incredibly rare. Collectors are willing to pay a massive premium for a “sharp strike” San Francisco coin. For more detailed breakdowns of rarity factors, you can check out this comprehensive 1917 nickel value guide which covers all three mint locations in depth.
When you are checking your coins, look for any unusual features. Sometimes a coin might appear to be a 1917-S but has been altered. Using a tool like CoinHix can help you cross-reference original mint specifications to ensure your coin is authentic. Authentic San Francisco nickels from this era represent the peak of WWI-era American coinage, making them a centerpiece for many collections.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 1917-S Buffalo Nickel
Q: Where is the mint mark on a 1917-S Buffalo Nickel?
A: The mint mark is found on the reverse (tails) side of the coin. Look directly under the words “FIVE CENTS” and the thin line of ground the buffalo is standing on. If you see a small “S,” it was minted in San Francisco.
Q: Should I clean my 1917-S Buffalo Nickel to make it worth more?
A: No! Never clean your coins. Cleaning a vintage coin with chemicals or abrasives creates tiny scratches that collectors can easily spot. Cleaning a rare coin can actually reduce its market value by 50% or more. Keep it in its original, “dirty” state.
Q: What is the most expensive 1917-S Buffalo Nickel ever sold?
A: Extremely high-grade examples have sold for staggering amounts. For instance, a 1917-S graded MS-67 by PCGS sold at auction for over $130,000. While the average coin found in circulation won’t reach that level, it shows just how valuable this specific date and mint mark can be.
