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1935-S

Nickels · Buffalo Nickels · 1913–1938
Regular
Weight5 g
Diameter21.2 mm
MintSan Francisco
StrikeCirculation strike
Mintage 10,300,000
EdgePlain
Alignment↑↓ Coin
Composition75% Copper, 25% Nickel
DesignerJames Earle Fraser
Collector's Key IDCK-1321

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About this coinHistory

San Francisco's 1935 Buffalo nickel mintage was 10,300,000 coins, a substantial production year that places the 1935-S in the mid-range scarcity category. The coin is available in circulated grades and accessible in Mint State through specialist channels at modest premiums. Strike characteristics are generally improved over earlier San Francisco Buffalo production.

Collectors building complete Buffalo nickel sets acquire the 1935-S without extraordinary difficulty. The coin is typical of mid-1930s San Francisco production. Well-struck Gem examples are available at modest premiums and are prized by specialists who value strike quality alongside technical grade.

The mid-1930s marked a general improvement in Buffalo nickel strike quality across all three mints, reflecting better die maintenance, improved press operations, and the Mint's overall focus on producing quality coinage during the recovery period. The 1935-S benefits from these improvements and is noticeably easier to find in well-struck condition than many earlier San Francisco Buffalo nickels.

Price guideReference

Reference data only — not an appraisal.

GradeDescriptionLowHigh
G-4 Good (G) $1 $1
VG-8 Very Good (VG) $1.50 $1.50
F-12 Fine (F) $2 $2
VF-20 Very Fine (VF) $2.50 $2.50
EF-40 Extremely Fine (EF) $3 $3.50
AU-50 About Uncirculated (AU) $16.50 $19
MS-60 Uncirculated (MS) $45 $52
MS-63 Choice Uncirculated (MS) $78 $83
Frequently Asked QuestionsFAQ
How much is a 1935-S Buffalo Nickel worth?
In Good condition it runs about $1, rising to roughly $45–$52 in Uncirculated. These are reference values, not an appraisal.
How many 1935-S Buffalo Nickels were minted?
10,300,000 were struck.
What is a 1935-S Buffalo Nickel made of?
75% Copper, 25% Nickel, weighing 5 g.
What is the melt value of a 1935-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 1935-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.