The 1916 Buffalo nickel is a fairly common coin amongst Buffalo nickels, but it's still a well-liked piece for collectors due to its historical significance and interesting design. Here's a breakdown of its key features:

Design:

• Obverse (front): Features a Native American profile facing right, inspired by Lakota chief Iron Tail.
• Reverse (back): Displays an American bison (often mistaken for a buffalo) charging to the left.

Historical Context (1913-1938):

• The Buffalo nickel was minted from 1913 to 1938, replacing the Liberty Head nickel (1883-1912).
• Designed by James Earle Fraser, the Buffalo nickel broke away from traditional coin designs and aimed to represent American heritage.

1916 Mintage:

• The 1916-dated Buffalo nickel was one of the more common issues in the series, with over 63 million coins minted at the Philadelphia mint (no mintmark).

Value:

• The value of a 1916 Buffalo nickel depends on its condition:
  • Circulated pieces: Can range from $2.50 to $45, depending on wear and tear.
  • Uncirculated specimens: In very good condition, these can be worth considerably more, possibly reaching $175 or higher depending on specific details.

Interesting Facts:

• The Buffalo nickel was designed to be more aesthetically pleasing than previous nickels.
• The design caused some controversy over the lack of a date and the depiction of a Native American without permission.
• Despite the controversy, the Buffalo nickel remained in circulation for over 25 years.

Where to Find Value:

• If you have a 1916 Buffalo nickel, you can research its condition (grade) online or consult a professional coin dealer to determine its potential value.