1913-S Type 1

San Francisco struck 2,105,000 Buffalo nickels with the Type 1 reverse in 1913, the lowest Type 1 mintage of the three mints. San Francisco's modest production reflected the branch's general role in early Buffalo nickel production: small runs to meet western commercial demand without overwhelming the facility's other responsibilities. The coin is the scarcest of the three Type 1 mintmarks and commands corresponding premiums in all grades.

Survival patterns for the 1913-S Type 1 follow the typical early Buffalo nickel profile. Most coins circulated heavily because the series was new and no one was setting aside examples for future collecting value. Mint State pieces are scarcer than Philadelphia or Denver Type 1 coins of the same year, and Gem-quality examples (MS65 and above) command meaningful premiums at major auctions.

Identification is straightforward once the S mintmark is located on the reverse below the raised mound. The mintmark is small but distinct on coins with reasonable detail, and specialists routinely verify attribution through certification services. Collectors assembling complete 1913 Buffalo nickel sets need the 1913-S Type 1 alongside the other five 1913 variants, and the coin is typically one of the more expensive acquisitions in the year's group.