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1925-S

Nickels · Buffalo Nickels · 1913–1938
Regular
Weight5 g
Diameter21.2 mm
MintSan Francisco
StrikeCirculation strike
Mintage 6,256,000
EdgePlain
Alignment↑↓ Coin
Composition75% Copper, 25% Nickel
DesignerJames Earle Fraser
Collector's Key IDCK-1299

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About this coinHistory

San Francisco struck 6,256,000 Buffalo nickels in 1925, a moderate figure that places the 1925-S in the mid-range scarcity category. The coin is available in circulated grades and accessible in Mint State through specialist channels. San Francisco strike characteristics for 1925 vary, with some dies producing sharp examples and others showing the softer detail common to San Francisco Buffalo production.

Collectors building complete Buffalo nickel sets acquire the 1925-S without extraordinary difficulty. The coin fills its slot in the date-and-mint sequence and commands modest premiums in higher grades. Well-struck Gem examples are prized but obtainable, and specialists can find satisfactory pieces through persistent searching.

The 1925-S is one of the less famous mid-1920s branch mint Buffalo nickels, overshadowed by the scarcer 1924-S and the much rarer 1926-S. Date collectors add the 1925-S as a routine acquisition, while high-grade specialists pay modest premiums for well-struck examples that satisfy their strict preservation requirements.

Price guideReference

Reference data only — not an appraisal.

GradeDescriptionLowHigh
G-4 Good (G) $4 $4.50
VG-8 Very Good (VG) $10 $11.50
F-12 Fine (F) $19.50 $23
VF-20 Very Fine (VF) $65 $75
EF-40 Extremely Fine (EF) $146 $169
AU-50 About Uncirculated (AU) $225 $260
MS-60 Uncirculated (MS) $535 $620
MS-63 Choice Uncirculated (MS) $1,595 $1,690
Frequently Asked QuestionsFAQ
How much is a 1925-S Buffalo Nickel worth?
In Good condition it runs about $4–$4.50, rising to roughly $535–$620 in Uncirculated. These are reference values, not an appraisal.
How many 1925-S Buffalo Nickels were minted?
6,256,000 were struck.
What is a 1925-S Buffalo Nickel made of?
75% Copper, 25% Nickel, weighing 5 g.
What is the melt value of a 1925-S Buffalo Nickel?
Its melt value is its metal content multiplied by the current spot price. See our melt calculator on the metals pages for a live figure.
Is the 1925-S Buffalo Nickel a key date?
It's a more common date overall, though scarcer die varieties may carry a premium — see the varieties list.