1928 Indian Head Nickel (Buffalo Nickel)
The 1928 Indian Head Nickel, commonly known as the Buffalo Nickel, is a beloved and iconic piece of American coinage history. Minted during a time of economic prosperity known as the Roaring Twenties, it reflects the cultural and artistic currents of its era. Designed by James Earle Fraser, the coin sought to celebrate both Native American heritage and the rugged beauty of the American West.
The obverse of the coin features a striking Native American profile facing to the right. This profile is believed to be a composite portrait of three Native American chiefs: Iron Tail, Two Moons, and John Big Tree. The figure wears a feathered headdress, symbolizing leadership and tradition, while the word "LIBERTY" is inscribed above the portrait, and the date "1928" is placed below it.
On the reverse side, an American bison, commonly referred to as a buffalo, stands atop a mound. The bison is depicted in profile, facing to the left, with its massive head and humped back emphasized. In the background, a stylized depiction of the sun with rays extending outward adds a sense of dynamism to the design. Below the buffalo, the denomination "FIVE CENTS" is inscribed.
Fraser's design was not merely aesthetic; it aimed to capture the spirit of the American West and its inhabitants. The buffalo, an iconic symbol of strength and resilience, represents the wildlife that once roamed the plains. The Native American profile pays homage to the indigenous peoples who inhabited these lands long before European settlers arrived.
Overall, the 1928 Indian Head Nickel stands as a testament to American craftsmanship and ingenuity. Its intricate design and symbolic imagery continue to captivate collectors and enthusiasts, making it a cherished piece of numismatic history.
The 1928 Indian Head Nickel, commonly known as the Buffalo Nickel, is a beloved and iconic piece of American coinage history. Minted during a time of economic prosperity known as the Roaring Twenties, it reflects the cultural and artistic currents of its era. Designed by James Earle Fraser, the coin sought to celebrate both Native American heritage and the rugged beauty of the American West.
The obverse of the coin features a striking Native American profile facing to the right. This profile is believed to be a composite portrait of three Native American chiefs: Iron Tail, Two Moons, and John Big Tree. The figure wears a feathered headdress, symbolizing leadership and tradition, while the word "LIBERTY" is inscribed above the portrait, and the date "1928" is placed below it.
On the reverse side, an American bison, commonly referred to as a buffalo, stands atop a mound. The bison is depicted in profile, facing to the left, with its massive head and humped back emphasized. In the background, a stylized depiction of the sun with rays extending outward adds a sense of dynamism to the design. Below the buffalo, the denomination "FIVE CENTS" is inscribed.
Fraser's design was not merely aesthetic; it aimed to capture the spirit of the American West and its inhabitants. The buffalo, an iconic symbol of strength and resilience, represents the wildlife that once roamed the plains. The Native American profile pays homage to the indigenous peoples who inhabited these lands long before European settlers arrived.
Overall, the 1928 Indian Head Nickel stands as a testament to American craftsmanship and ingenuity. Its intricate design and symbolic imagery continue to captivate collectors and enthusiasts, making it a cherished piece of numismatic history.
The 1928 Indian Head Nickel, commonly known as the Buffalo Nickel, is a beloved and iconic piece of American coinage history. Minted during a time of economic prosperity known as the Roaring Twenties, it reflects the cultural and artistic currents of its era. Designed by James Earle Fraser, the coin sought to celebrate both Native American heritage and the rugged beauty of the American West.
The obverse of the coin features a striking Native American profile facing to the right. This profile is believed to be a composite portrait of three Native American chiefs: Iron Tail, Two Moons, and John Big Tree. The figure wears a feathered headdress, symbolizing leadership and tradition, while the word "LIBERTY" is inscribed above the portrait, and the date "1928" is placed below it.
On the reverse side, an American bison, commonly referred to as a buffalo, stands atop a mound. The bison is depicted in profile, facing to the left, with its massive head and humped back emphasized. In the background, a stylized depiction of the sun with rays extending outward adds a sense of dynamism to the design. Below the buffalo, the denomination "FIVE CENTS" is inscribed.
Fraser's design was not merely aesthetic; it aimed to capture the spirit of the American West and its inhabitants. The buffalo, an iconic symbol of strength and resilience, represents the wildlife that once roamed the plains. The Native American profile pays homage to the indigenous peoples who inhabited these lands long before European settlers arrived.
Overall, the 1928 Indian Head Nickel stands as a testament to American craftsmanship and ingenuity. Its intricate design and symbolic imagery continue to captivate collectors and enthusiasts, making it a cherished piece of numismatic history.
Category: Coin
Face Value: 5¢
Obverse: The obverse of the 1928 Indian Head Nickel, commonly known as the Buffalo Nickel, features a Native American profile facing to the right. This profile is believed to be a
composite portrait of three Native American chiefs: Iron Tail, Two Moons, and John Big Tree. The Native American figure is depicted wearing a feathered headdress,
symbolizing leadership and tradition. The word "LIBERTY" is inscribed above the portrait, and the date "1928" is placed below it. This iconic design by James Earle Fraser is
celebrated for its artistic detail and representation of Native American heritage.
Reverse: The reverse of the 1928 Indian Head Nickel, also known as the Buffalo Nickel, features an American bison, commonly referred to as a buffalo, standing atop a mound. The bison
is depicted in profile, facing to the left, with its massive head and humped back emphasized. In the background, there is a stylized depiction of the sun, with rays extending
outward. Below the buffalo, the denomination "FIVE CENTS" is inscribed. This design, created by James Earle Fraser, is celebrated for its iconic representation of American
wildlife and the rugged beauty of the American West.
Country of Origin: The United States of America
Mint: Philadelphia Mint (no mint mark)
In House Collection: 1 of 2
Condition: Poor
Condition Additional Notes: Average Circulation
Material: 75% copper and 25% nickel
Age: 1928
Language: English, Latin
Diameter: 21.2 millimeters
