The 1916-S Buffalo Nickel is worth anywhere from $30 in heavily worn condition to over $2,000 or more in higher mint state grades — and if you’ve got one sitting in an old coin jar, you might be holding onto something genuinely exciting. This San Francisco-minted nickel is one of the more desirable pieces from the early Buffalo Nickel series, and everyday collectors and seasoned numismatists alike have chased it for decades.
What Makes the 1916-S Buffalo Nickel Special
The Buffalo Nickel, officially called the Indian Head Nickel, was designed by sculptor James Earle Fraser and first entered circulation in 1913. By 1916, the series was in full swing, and the San Francisco Mint struck just over 11 million of these nickels — a mintage that’s considered relatively low compared to the Philadelphia issue that year.
That “S” mintmark on the reverse, found just below the words “FIVE CENTS,” is what sets this coin apart. Lower mintage coins tend to survive in smaller numbers today, which drives up demand and value.
If you’re not sure whether what you have is the real deal, using a free coin identifier app is a great first step before heading to a coin dealer or sending it off for grading. Apps like CoinKnow let you scan your coin and get an instant identification, saving you a lot of guesswork.
1916-S Buffalo Nickel Value by Grade
Like all old coins, condition is everything. A coin that’s been rattling around in a pocket for a century looks very different from one that was tucked away in a collection shortly after it was minted. Here’s a general breakdown of what the 1916-S Buffalo Nickel is worth across different grades:
| Grade | Description | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|
| Good (G-4) | Heavy wear, flat design | $30 – $50 |
| Fine (F-12) | Moderate wear, details visible | $70 – $120 |
| Extremely Fine (EF-40) | Light wear on high points | $200 – $350 |
| About Uncirculated (AU-55) | Slight wear, most luster intact | $450 – $700 |
| Mint State (MS-63) | Uncirculated, minor marks | $1,200 – $2,000+ |
For a more detailed and up-to-date look at 1916-S Buffalo Nickel prices across mint state grades, it’s worth checking a trusted coin pricing database that reflects recent auction results.
How to Tell If Your Coin Is Genuine
One concern with older, valuable coins is the existence of altered or counterfeit pieces. Some unscrupulous sellers have been known to add an “S” mintmark to a 1916 Philadelphia nickel to make it appear more valuable. A genuine 1916-S mintmark will be cleanly struck and sit naturally within the design — not look added on or out of place.
Beyond that, look at the overall wear patterns. The buffalo’s shoulder and the Native American’s cheekbone and hair braid are the first areas to wear down. If those details are still reasonably visible, you’re likely looking at a coin in Fine or better condition.
When in doubt, get a professional opinion. A coin graded and encapsulated by PCGS or NGC carries a guarantee of authenticity — and usually commands a higher price when you sell. CoinKnow can also help you understand what grade range your coin might fall into before you invest in professional grading.
Is the 1916-S Buffalo Nickel a Good Find
Absolutely. Even a heavily worn example is worth real money — far more than its five-cent face value. The 1916-S sits in that sweet spot where it’s old enough to be historically interesting, rare enough to be collectible, and common enough that you can still find one without breaking the bank.
If you’re building a Buffalo Nickel date set, the 1916-S is a key coin to track down. If you just found one in grandma’s jewelry box or an old coin roll, consider yourself lucky. For a complete overview of what a 1916 Buffalo Nickel is worth based on mint and condition, you’ll get a solid picture of where your coin fits in the market.
The Buffalo Nickel era represents one of the most beloved periods in American coinage history, and the 1916-S is a fine representative of everything that makes this series worth collecting.
FAQ
Q: Where is the mintmark on a 1916-S Buffalo Nickel?
A: The mintmark is located on the reverse of the coin, on the lower left side just beneath the words “FIVE CENTS.” The “S” stands for the San Francisco Mint.
Q: How do I know if my 1916-S Buffalo Nickel is worth getting professionally graded?
A: If your coin shows little wear and has clear design details — especially on the Native American’s face and the buffalo’s body — it may be in a higher grade where professional grading (through PCGS or NGC) significantly increases its market value. You can also use CoinKnow to get a quick preliminary assessment before spending money on grading fees.
Q: Can I sell a 1916-S Buffalo Nickel online?
A: Yes. Platforms like eBay, Heritage Auctions, and Great Collections are popular places to sell. Coins that have been professionally graded tend to attract more buyers and higher bids. Make sure to photograph both sides clearly and describe the condition honestly.
