1915-S

San Francisco struck 1,505,000 Buffalo nickels in 1915, the second-lowest mintage in the Buffalo series after the 1913-S Type 2. The 1915-S is a genuine semi-key and one of the more challenging mid-series acquisitions for collectors building complete Buffalo nickel sets. Most examples circulated heavily and show significant wear; higher grades are scarce, and Mint State pieces command meaningful premiums.

Strike characteristics for 1915-S nickels tend to be softer than many other Buffalo dates, reflecting die states and production techniques at San Francisco during the period. Collectors seeking sharp examples face a double challenge: finding the coin at all in higher grades, and then finding one with acceptable strike quality. Well-struck 1915-S nickels in MS64 or better are genuine prizes for specialist collectors.

PCGS survival estimates place the population at perhaps 25,000 to 30,000 across all grades, with most in lower circulated condition. The coin is typically grouped with the 1914-D, 1914-S, and 1919-D as a core Buffalo nickel semi-key. Heritage Auctions has sold Gem examples in the $3,000 to $10,000 range over the past decade, with premium-quality pieces bringing higher prices when they appear at auction.