Description
1915-S 5C Buffalo Nickel PCGS MS65
1915-S 5C Buffalo Nickel PCGS MS65
1915-S 5C
SKU: 34205553
1915-S Buffalo Nickel PCGS MS65 (San Francisco) — Gem Uncirculated, Low-Mintage Branch Mint Classic
A standout from the early Buffalo Nickel era, this 1915-S 5C has been certified PCGS MS65, placing it firmly in Gem territory. The 1915-S is a notably low-mintage issue that is scarce in circulated grades—long regarded as one of the more expensive Buffalo nickels in lower conditions. While Uncirculated pieces are comparatively more obtainable than the circulated counterparts, true Gems like this remain coveted. San Francisco’s 1915 output is also known for better-than-usual strikes for the series, and luster on this issue ranges from softly subdued to appealingly frosty, enhancing the design’s rugged detail.
Designed by James Earle Fraser, the Indian Head (Buffalo) Nickel captures quintessential American imagery—the bold Native American portrait paired with the powerful American bison. This MS65 example offers the combination serious collectors seek: a low-mintage S-Mint date, strong strike characteristics for the issue, and Gem-level preservation backed by top-tier third‑party certification.
Key details:
Date/Mint: 1915-S (San Francisco)
Denomination/Type: 5 Cents, Buffalo (Indian Head) Nickel
Grade: PCGS MS65 (Gem Uncirculated)
Mintage: 1,505,000
Population: 144 in MS65 at PCGS; just 67 graded higher
Strike/Luster: One of the better-struck S-Mint Buffalos; luster typically ranges from subdued to frosty
Composition/Specs: 75% copper, 25% nickel; 21.2 mm; designer James Earle Fraser
Why this coin:
Scarce date in circulated grades; desirable in Gem for advanced date/mm and type sets
Strong eye appeal for the issue with crisp devices and pleasing mint luster
Excellent addition to Buffalo Nickel collections, San Francisco Mint runs, or high-grade 20th‑century type sets
Secure a premium example of an early S‑Mint Buffalo Nickel—an enduring classic that blends scarcity, historic appeal, and Gem-level quality.
PCGS # 3929.000000
Grading Service PCGS
Grade MS65
Year 1915
Strike Business