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1926-D

Nickels · Buffalo Nickels · 1913–1938
Semi-key
Weight5 g
Diameter21.2 mm
MintDenver
StrikeCirculation strike
Mintage 5,638,000
EdgePlain
Alignment↑↓ Coin
Composition75% Copper, 25% Nickel
DesignerJames Earle Fraser
Collector's Key IDCK-1301

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About this coinHistory

Denver struck 5,638,000 Buffalo nickels in 1926, establishing the 1926-D as a semi-key in the series. The coin is noticeably scarcer than the Philadelphia issue and commands meaningful premiums in all grades. Strike characteristics for 1926-D nickels are often weak, with soft obverse detail and incomplete bison hair definition on the reverse typical of Denver production in the mid-1920s.

Well-struck 1926-D examples are prized and command premiums over typical strike specimens at the same technical grade. Finding a sharp MS64 or better 1926-D requires patient searching and willingness to examine multiple candidates. Full-strike Gem examples are genuinely scarce and command four-figure prices at major auctions.

PCGS survival estimates place the 1926-D population at moderate levels, with most examples in circulated grades and thinner populations in Mint State. The coin is typically grouped with the 1924-D and 1925-D in collector discussions of mid-1920s Denver Buffalo nickels. For collectors building complete sets, the 1926-D is a required acquisition that needs budget planning and careful selection.

Price guideReference

Reference data only — not an appraisal.

GradeDescriptionLowHigh
G-4 Good (G) $12.50 $14.50
VG-8 Very Good (VG) $17 $19.50
F-12 Fine (F) $33 $38
VF-20 Very Fine (VF) $73 $84
EF-40 Extremely Fine (EF) $146 $169
AU-50 About Uncirculated (AU) $265 $305
MS-60 Uncirculated (MS) $325 $375
MS-63 Choice Uncirculated (MS) $645 $680
Frequently Asked QuestionsFAQ
How much is a 1926-D Buffalo Nickel worth?
In Good condition it runs about $12.50–$14.50, rising to roughly $325–$375 in Uncirculated. These are reference values, not an appraisal.
How many 1926-D Buffalo Nickels were minted?
5,638,000 were struck.
What is a 1926-D Buffalo Nickel made of?
75% Copper, 25% Nickel, weighing 5 g.
What is the melt value of a 1926-D 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 1926-D Buffalo Nickel a key date?
It's a semi-key date — scarcer than common issues but more available than the series' key dates.