1937 Indian Head Nickel (Buffalo Nickel)
The 1937 Indian Head Nickel, or Buffalo Nickel, is a poignant relic from the heart of the Great Depression, a time when the nation sought solace and strength amidst economic turmoil. Crafted by James Earle Fraser, this coin encapsulates the spirit of resilience and the rugged beauty of the American West.
On the obverse side, a noble Native American profile, facing to the right, commands attention. This profile, believed to be a composite of three Native American chiefs—Iron Tail, Two Moons, and John Big Tree—exudes dignity and tradition. Adorned with a feathered headdress, the figure symbolizes the enduring spirit of Native American culture. Above the portrait, the word "LIBERTY" serves as a reminder of the fundamental American values of freedom and independence, while the date "1937" below grounds the coin in its historical moment.
Flipping the coin reveals its equally captivating reverse side. Here, an imposing American bison, standing atop a mound, dominates the scene. The bison, portrayed in profile facing left, embodies the untamed wilderness and rugged landscapes of the American West. Behind the bison, a stylized sun with rays emanating outward evokes a sense of dynamism and vitality. Below the majestic creature, the denomination "FIVE CENTS" is boldly inscribed, a testament to the coin's utilitarian purpose.
Fraser's design masterfully captures the essence of America's frontier spirit and the deep connection to its indigenous peoples and wildlife. Each detail—from the meticulous rendering of the Native American profile to the majestic presence of the bison—speaks to the nation's rich history and cultural diversity.
As a cherished relic of American numismatic heritage, the 1937 Indian Head Nickel serves as a timeless reminder of the resilience and fortitude that defined a generation. Its enduring appeal continues to captivate collectors and enthusiasts, ensuring its place as an iconic symbol of American coinage.
The 1937 Indian Head Nickel, or Buffalo Nickel, is a poignant relic from the heart of the Great Depression, a time when the nation sought solace and strength amidst economic turmoil. Crafted by James Earle Fraser, this coin encapsulates the spirit of resilience and the rugged beauty of the American West.
On the obverse side, a noble Native American profile, facing to the right, commands attention. This profile, believed to be a composite of three Native American chiefs—Iron Tail, Two Moons, and John Big Tree—exudes dignity and tradition. Adorned with a feathered headdress, the figure symbolizes the enduring spirit of Native American culture. Above the portrait, the word "LIBERTY" serves as a reminder of the fundamental American values of freedom and independence, while the date "1937" below grounds the coin in its historical moment.
Flipping the coin reveals its equally captivating reverse side. Here, an imposing American bison, standing atop a mound, dominates the scene. The bison, portrayed in profile facing left, embodies the untamed wilderness and rugged landscapes of the American West. Behind the bison, a stylized sun with rays emanating outward evokes a sense of dynamism and vitality. Below the majestic creature, the denomination "FIVE CENTS" is boldly inscribed, a testament to the coin's utilitarian purpose.
Fraser's design masterfully captures the essence of America's frontier spirit and the deep connection to its indigenous peoples and wildlife. Each detail—from the meticulous rendering of the Native American profile to the majestic presence of the bison—speaks to the nation's rich history and cultural diversity.
As a cherished relic of American numismatic heritage, the 1937 Indian Head Nickel serves as a timeless reminder of the resilience and fortitude that defined a generation. Its enduring appeal continues to captivate collectors and enthusiasts, ensuring its place as an iconic symbol of American coinage.
The 1937 Indian Head Nickel, or Buffalo Nickel, is a poignant relic from the heart of the Great Depression, a time when the nation sought solace and strength amidst economic turmoil. Crafted by James Earle Fraser, this coin encapsulates the spirit of resilience and the rugged beauty of the American West.
On the obverse side, a noble Native American profile, facing to the right, commands attention. This profile, believed to be a composite of three Native American chiefs—Iron Tail, Two Moons, and John Big Tree—exudes dignity and tradition. Adorned with a feathered headdress, the figure symbolizes the enduring spirit of Native American culture. Above the portrait, the word "LIBERTY" serves as a reminder of the fundamental American values of freedom and independence, while the date "1937" below grounds the coin in its historical moment.
Flipping the coin reveals its equally captivating reverse side. Here, an imposing American bison, standing atop a mound, dominates the scene. The bison, portrayed in profile facing left, embodies the untamed wilderness and rugged landscapes of the American West. Behind the bison, a stylized sun with rays emanating outward evokes a sense of dynamism and vitality. Below the majestic creature, the denomination "FIVE CENTS" is boldly inscribed, a testament to the coin's utilitarian purpose.
Fraser's design masterfully captures the essence of America's frontier spirit and the deep connection to its indigenous peoples and wildlife. Each detail—from the meticulous rendering of the Native American profile to the majestic presence of the bison—speaks to the nation's rich history and cultural diversity.
As a cherished relic of American numismatic heritage, the 1937 Indian Head Nickel serves as a timeless reminder of the resilience and fortitude that defined a generation. Its enduring appeal continues to captivate collectors and enthusiasts, ensuring its place as an iconic symbol of American coinage.
Category: Coin
Face Value: 5¢
Obverse: The obverse of the 1937 Indian Head Nickel, or 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 "1937" is placed below it. This iconic design by James Earle Fraser captures the spirit of Native American
heritage and remains a cherished symbol of American coinage.
Reverse: The reverse of the 1937 Indian Head Nickel, commonly known as the Buffalo Nickel, features an American bison 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: 2 of 2
Condition: VG
Condition Additional Notes: Average Circulation
Material: 75% copper and 25% nickel
Age: 1937
Language: English, Latin
Diameter: 21.2 millimeters
