1928 Buffalo Nickel Value: A Collector's Insight Guide

Are you holding a 1928 Buffalo Nickel and wondering about its worth? You've come to the right place. The value of a 1928 Buffalo Nickel typically ranges from a few dollars for circulated examples to several hundred, or even thousands, for uncirculated specimens with specific mint marks or rare errors. Unlike face value, the true worth of these historic coins hinges on a combination of factors including its condition, the presence of a mint mark, and any unique die varieties. In our extensive analysis, we've found that understanding these nuances is crucial for any collector. This guide will equip you with the knowledge to accurately assess your coin's potential.

Understanding the Basics: What Affects a 1928 Buffalo Nickel's Worth?

Determining the precise value of any vintage coin, including the 1928 Buffalo Nickel, is a multi-faceted process. It's not just about age; it's about a combination of intrinsic and market-driven characteristics that elevate a common piece into a coveted collectible. Our experience in coin valuation shows that paying close attention to these foundational elements will greatly improve your assessment. — Best 20 Cubic Foot Refrigerators: Reviews & Guide

Mint Marks and Their Significance

Mint marks are small letters found on coins that indicate the location where they were produced. For 1928 Buffalo Nickels, you'll primarily look for two mint marks: 'D' for Denver and 'S' for San Francisco. Coins without a mint mark were struck at the Philadelphia Mint. The presence or absence of these marks significantly impacts rarity and, consequently, value. In our research, we consistently see that coins from lower mintage mints often command higher prices due to their comparative scarcity. For 1928, all three mints produced coins, but their respective mintages vary considerably. — Walgreens HR Phone Number: Contact & Support

The Critical Role of Condition (Grading)

Condition, or grade, is arguably the most crucial factor in determining a coin's value. The less wear and tear a coin shows, the higher its grade and usually its monetary worth. The Sheldon coin grading scale, a universally accepted standard, ranges from P-1 (Poor) to MS-70 (Perfect Mint State). A 1928 Buffalo Nickel in Good condition (G-4) will be worth significantly less than one graded About Uncirculated (AU-50) or Mint State (MS-60+). Our analysis of auction results reveals a dramatic increase in value for coins transitioning from circulated to uncirculated grades, especially those with strong strikes and original luster. You'll want to inspect details like the buffalo's horn, the Indian's braid, and the date for signs of wear.

Rarity and Mintage Figures

As mentioned, mintage figures — the total number of coins produced by a specific mint in a given year — directly influence rarity. A lower mintage means fewer coins were originally struck, making them inherently scarcer today. For 1928, the Philadelphia Mint produced the most Buffalo Nickels, followed by Denver and then San Francisco. Understanding these original production numbers provides a foundational context for a coin's current rarity and its potential for appreciation. This data is openly available from authoritative sources like the U.S. Mint archives. — Broward Employee Self-Service Portal: Your Guide

Detailed 1928 Buffalo Nickel Value Chart by Condition

To provide a clearer picture, let's break down the approximate values of 1928 Buffalo Nickels across different grades. Please remember these are estimates, and actual prices can fluctuate based on market demand, dealer premiums, and the specific eye appeal of an individual coin.

Good (G-4) to Fine (F-12)

• G-4 (Good): Heavy wear, design elements are outlined. Date is readable. Values typically range from $1.50 - $5.00.
• VG-8 (Very Good): Design elements are clear but flat. Some detail in the hair braids and horn may be visible. Values from $3.00 - $8.00.
• F-12 (Fine): Moderate wear, some detail visible in the hair and horn, but outlines are still prominent. Values from $5.00 - $15.00.

Very Fine (VF-20) to Extremely Fine (EF-40)

• VF-20 (Very Fine): Moderate wear, but all major design elements are clear. Horn shows some detail. Values from $10.00 - $30.00.
• EF-40 (Extremely Fine): Light wear on high points, most detail visible, including some original luster. Horn clearly defined. Values from $25.00 - $75.00.

About Uncirculated (AU-50) to Mint State (MS-60+)

• AU-50 (About Uncirculated): Traces of wear on highest points, but full luster often present. Values from $50.00 - $150.00.
• MS-60 to MS-63 (Mint State): No trace of wear, but may have distracting marks or lack full luster. Values can range from $100.00 - $500.00.
• MS-64 to MS-66 (Choice Mint State): Attractive luster, minimal contact marks. This is where values escalate significantly, often reaching $500.00 - $5,000.00+, depending on mint mark and eye appeal.
• MS-67 and above (Superb Gem): Exceptional strike and surfaces, rare for this series. These coins can fetch tens of thousands of dollars at auction. For example, a 1928-D graded MS-67 has sold for over $20,000.

Full Horn and Full Leg Varieties: Premium Value

For Buffalo Nickels, collectors often pay a premium for coins exhibiting