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1927-S

Nickels · Buffalo Nickels · 1913–1938
Regular
Weight5 g
Diameter21.2 mm
MintSan Francisco
StrikeCirculation strike
Mintage 3,430,000
EdgePlain
Alignment↑↓ Coin
Composition75% Copper, 25% Nickel
DesignerJames Earle Fraser
Collector's Key IDCK-1306

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About this coinHistory

San Francisco's 1927 Buffalo nickel mintage was 3,430,000 coins, a moderate figure that places the 1927-S in the mid-range scarcity category. The coin is available in circulated grades and accessible in Mint State through specialist channels. Strike characteristics are variable and often soft, making well-struck examples prized by collectors.

The 1927-S is one of the less famous late-1920s branch mint Buffalo nickels. Date collectors add it as a routine acquisition in a complete set, while high-grade specialists pay modest premiums for well-struck examples. Full-strike MS65 or better pieces are scarcer than the overall mintage would suggest, reflecting typical San Francisco strike quality issues of the period.

For collectors building complete Buffalo nickel sets, the 1927-S fills its slot in the date-and-mint sequence without presenting the challenges of the true semi-keys and key dates. Heritage Auctions has sold Gem examples at modest premiums over common-date pricing, with premium-strike examples bringing slightly higher prices in competitive markets.

Price guideReference

Reference data only — not an appraisal.

GradeDescriptionLowHigh
G-4 Good (G) $1.50 $2
VG-8 Very Good (VG) $2.50 $2.50
F-12 Fine (F) $4 $4.50
VF-20 Very Fine (VF) $33 $38
EF-40 Extremely Fine (EF) $80 $92
AU-50 About Uncirculated (AU) $183 $210
MS-60 Uncirculated (MS) $735 $845
MS-63 Choice Uncirculated (MS) $2,355 $2,490
Frequently Asked QuestionsFAQ
How much is a 1927-S Buffalo Nickel worth?
In Good condition it runs about $1.50–$2, rising to roughly $735–$845 in Uncirculated. These are reference values, not an appraisal.
How many 1927-S Buffalo Nickels were minted?
3,430,000 were struck.
What is a 1927-S Buffalo Nickel made of?
75% Copper, 25% Nickel, weighing 5 g.
What is the melt value of a 1927-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 1927-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.