Values of 1936 Buffalo nickels can vary substantially, contingent on each coin’s quality, degree of preservation, and mint mark. Although expensive, most iconic American coins are collectible due to their indispensability in the nation’s coinage history.
Most collectors regard these nickels as the quintessential American coins due to the representations on both sides. The portrait pays homage to all indigenous nations, while the bison depicted on the reverse symbolizes the untamed American West.
What Is A 1936 Buffalo Nickel?
The solid 1936 nickel value of these weathered coins demonstrates their continued popularity. This intense demand is shown by the high prices of Buffalo nickels in excellent condition. In “uncirculated” condition, this date bison nickel is quite challenging to come by; therefore, any you manage to locate is highly valuable. Additionally, these antiquated nickels were produced at three distinct mints, each possessing a unique value; among them, the Denver mint coin stands out.
The condition also significantly influenced the value of nickel in 1936. Carefully inspect each; the value of your coin is determined by the degree of wear or absence thereof. The depicted Buffalo nickel is an excellent “uncirculated” specimen that collectors and dealers in rare coins avidly pursue. According to the three distinct mints, the value of nickel in 1936 is classified into four grading categories.
The 1936 Buffalo Nickel History
The inception of nickel history occurred in 1866 when the initial Shield nickels were introduced into circulation. The Liberty Head nickels were then struck by the US Mint between 1884 and 1912 when the first Buffalo nickels were introduced.
Following James Earle Fraser’s design, the US Mint manufactured the recognizable and symbolically significant Buffalo nickels from 1913 to 1938. Despite enduring numerous minting issues and required design modifications, these coins remain among the most cherished and collectible examples of American coinage.
Despite the public’s widespread admiration of these coins during the entire minting period, mints encountered numerous difficulties during production. The principal cause was the elevated design, which led to rapid deterioration.
Although pieces struck in 1936 were produced amidst economic difficulties in the United States, it is evident that a record number of nickels were made that year. Additionally, the US Mint introduced proofs after 1916 during this era.
The experts were relieved when Buffalo nickel minting ceased two years later. Since their introduction, the initial Jefferson nickels have remained in circulation and mint condition, whereas Buffalo nickels have remained exceedingly collectible.
What Is The Value Of A 1936 Buffalo Nickel?
In 1936, 158,745,420 nickels were minted and distributed among three mints. All three mints utilized a conventional strike to produce coins; however, the Philadelphia mint also issued limited proofs.
1. 1936 No Mint Mark Nickel Value
Philadelphia was the center of Buffalo nickel production in 1936, with 118,997,000 pieces manufactured. The most expensive coins range in value from $15.60 to $0.45 for those in circulated condition, whereas those in MS 60+ are more expensive.
Uncirculated nickels of the lowest grade can be purchased for $17 to $20, whereas others carry a higher price tag. For instance, the following costs can be anticipated:
- $25 to $30 for MS 62 grade nickel
- $34 to $40.80 for MS 63 grade nickel
- $38 to $45.60 for MS 64 grade nickel
- $55 to $66 for MS 65 grade nickel
- $85 to $110 for MS 66 grade nickel
- $385 to $462 for MS 67 grade nickel
The price range of MS 68 nickels, on the other hand, is entirely unexpected. Experts value these rare specimens between $12,500 and $15,000.
2. 1936 Proof Nickel Value
In addition to conventional strike nickels from 1936, the Philadelphia Mint issued 4,420 Type 2 proof coins featuring a bison on a level surface. Each exquisite coin was initially designed exclusively for collectors.
Typically, those with a Satin Finish cost more than $600, comparable to those in the PR 60 grade. Other items are more costly; therefore, you should budget a minimum of the following:
- $700 to $805 for coins in PR 61 rank
- $750 to $862.50 for coins in PR 62 rank
- $800 to $920 for coins in PR 63 rank
- $1,000 to $1,150 for coins in PR 64 rank
- $1,050 to $1,208 for coins in PR 65 rank
- $1,250 to $1,438 for coins in PR 66 rank
- $1,750 to $2,013 for coins in PR 67 rank
- $5,750 to $6,000 for coins in PR 68 rank
Type 2 nickels from 1936 featuring a brilliant finish are even more expensive, with an approximate price of:
- PR 60 – $750 to $862.50
- PR 61 – $800 to $920
- PR 62 – $900 to $1,035
- PR 63 – $950 to $1,093
- PR 64 – $950 to $1,093
- PR 65 – $1,100 to $1,265
- PR 66 – $1,380 to $1,620
- PR 67 – $2,350 to $2,600
Pieces with a PR 68 grade are estimated to cost between $6,800 and $8,000. Nevertheless, one of these coins was acquired at auction for $40,250, the highest price ever for a single nickel minted this year.
3. 1936 D Nickel Value
Since 1936, many of the 24,814,000 Buffalo nickels struck in Denver have survived; however, the majority are severely deteriorated and occasionally uncollectible. However, some can be purchased in superior condition for $0.45 to $30.
The average value of mint-condition nickels from 1936 is slightly higher at:
- $29 to $34.80 for coins with the MS 60 grade
- $32 to $38.400 for coins with the MS 61 grade
- $34 to $40.800 for coins with the MS 62 grade
- $40 to $480 for coins with the MS 63 grade
- $55 to $660 for coins with the MS 64 grade
- $90 to $1080 for coins with the MS 65 grade
- $140 to $1680 for coins with the MS 66 grade
4. 1936 S Nickel Value
In 1934, 14,930,000 nickels from the San Francisco Mint were circulated. Several coins remain in circulation; even the finest examples are priced moderately.
For instance, circulated nickels from 1936 require a mere $0.45 to $26.40 in investment, whereas those ranging in value from MS 60 to MS 66 cost between $26 and $200. The sole anomaly pertains to the MS 67 S Buffalo nickels, valued at $960 to $1,152.
Grading The 1936 Buffalo Nickel
When an enthusiast declares an interest in acquiring a 1936 Buffalo Nickel, it is evident that the collector is mainly concerned with locating a coin in pristine condition. This is only sometimes a simple endeavor, one reason collectors will evaluate the coin’s overall condition before proceeding.
Evaluating a coin’s condition is commonly referred to as “grading” and is typically the responsibility of a professional coin grading organization. While financial and time constraints may prevent you from sending your coin for grading, the following specifications can give you a general understanding of the qualities that coins of particular grades will possess.
1. Uncirculated: An uncirculated Buffalo nickel was promptly deposited securely following its production. Due to their lack of exposure to open market transactions, these coins exhibit minimal deterioration, a characteristic not observed on most Buffalo Nickels. Conversely, you will discover a coin that has undergone such meticulous preservation that not even its original luster from the mint has been lost, thereby imparting a pleasant sheen to the coin.
2. Extremely Fine: The coin must have been in circulation briefly to attain this grade. Although the coin appears to have sustained minimal damage to the unaided eye, a closer examination will reveal that it has been lightly scratched. Nevertheless, upon closer inspection, these coins remain in pristine condition.
3. Fine: Grade “Fine” is assigned to Buffalo Nickels, which underwent satisfactory exchange time. These coins may exhibit minor flaking and other imperfections, yet their designs or inscriptions remain legible despite the damage. The areas with the most severe injury are near the Indian’s cheekbone and the buffalo’s front legs.
4. Good: The grade assigned to coins with the highest circulation volume is “Good.” These coins will have sustained significant damage, including flaking, scratching, and, in some cases, bending. Regardless of their condition, collectors are eager to obtain these coins.
In conclusion, the value of the 1936 Buffalo Nickel is determined by factors such as collector demand, condition, mint mark, and rarity, rendering it a prized artifact of American numismatic history. Although most examples circulated are accessible to novice collectors, uncirculated specimens and rare varieties present a formidable obstacle for more seasoned enthusiasts. The 1936 Buffalo Nickel is a valuable addition to any collection, as it provides a tangible link to American history and culture, whether you are a novice or an experienced numismatist.
Thank you for reading……
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