1915 Buffalo Nickel Value: P, D, S & Proof Coins Worth $5-$55,000
1915 Buffalo Nickels are worth $5 (common 1915-P) to $55,000+ (top 1915-S). Key dates, varieties (DDO, 2 Feathers), and matte proofs command premiums. Pricing by grade.
The 1915 Buffalo Nickel is worth $5 to $55,813 depending on mint mark, grade, and strike type.
- 1915 Philadelphia (P): $5 (G-4) to $9,600 (MS-67+)
- 1915-D Denver: $20 (G-4) to $20,125 (MS-67) — semi-key date
- 1915-S San Francisco: $45 (G-4) to $55,813 (MS-67) — key date
- 1915 Matte Proof: $1,900 (PF-63) to $15,000 (PF-68) — 1,050 mintage
The 1915-S is one of the most valuable Buffalo Nickels across all grades, while varieties like the 1915 DDO and 2 Feathers command significant premiums.
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Understanding the 1915 Buffalo Nickel
The 1915 Buffalo Nickel represents a pivotal year in one of America's most beloved coin series. Struck at three mints—Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco—plus a limited proof issue, this year offers collectors everything from affordable type coins to premier rarities worth five figures.
The 1915 Buffalo Nickel features James Earle Fraser's iconic Type 2 design with recessed denomination
Values range from $5 for a common 1915 Philadelphia nickel in Good condition to over $55,000 for a top-graded 1915-S. The 1915-S stands as a key date commanding premiums in all grades, while the 1915-D presents unique challenges due to notoriously weak strikes. Die varieties including a Doubled Die Obverse and the popular "2 Feathers" variety add further dimension to this year's collectibility.
This guide covers identification, grading diagnostics, current market values, major varieties, authentication of the frequently counterfeited 1915-S, and proper preservation methods.
How to Identify Your 1915 Buffalo Nickel
All 1915 Buffalo Nickels feature the Type 2 design introduced in 1913. The Type 2 modification is visible on the reverse, where the denomination "FIVE CENTS" is set within a recessed channel below a straight horizontal line. This design change protected the denomination from the rapid wear that afflicted the original Type 1 design, where "FIVE CENTS" was exposed on a raised mound.
Type 2 design (1913-1938): FIVE CENTS in recessed channel below straight line protects denomination from wear
The obverse displays an American Indian head in right-facing profile, with the date "1915" below and the word "LIBERTY" on the upper right rim. The designer's initial "F" (for James Earle Fraser) appears in small, incuse letters below the date. The reverse features an American bison (buffalo) standing on raised ground, with "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" and "E PLURIBUS UNUM" above.
Mint mark identification is critical for determining value. The mint mark appears on the reverse of the coin, directly below the "FIVE CENTS" denomination:
- No mint mark: Philadelphia Mint (1915-P) — 20,986,220 mintage
- "D" mint mark: Denver Mint (1915-D) — 7,569,000 mintage
- "S" mint mark: San Francisco Mint (1915-S) — 1,505,000 mintage
Mint marks (D or S) appear on the reverse directly below FIVE CENTS. Philadelphia coins have no mint mark.
The 1915 Matte Proof is distinguished by its special finish rather than a mint mark. These proof strikings, with a mintage of only 1,050 pieces, feature a fine, granular, non-reflective surface created by sandblasting the dies. This distinctive texture sets them apart from the business strikes' typical satiny luster.
⚠️ Weak Strike vs. Circulation Wear
The 1915-D is notorious for poor strike quality. A weakly struck Uncirculated coin may show flat details that mimic circulation wear, particularly on the buffalo's horn and the Indian's hair braid. The key diagnostic is mint luster: a weak strike retains full luster in surrounding fields, while circulation wear removes luster from high points.
1915 Buffalo Nickel Price Guide by Mint and Grade
Values for 1915 Buffalo Nickels vary dramatically based on mint mark, grade, strike quality, and the presence of varieties. The following market values are based on PCGS and NGC price guides and recent (2023-2025) auction results. All prices assume problem-free coins with no cleaning, damage, or environmental issues.
1915 Philadelphia (No Mint Mark) Business Strike
With a mintage exceeding 20.9 million, the 1915-P is the most common issue of the year and frequently serves as an affordable "type coin" for collectors. While plentiful in circulated grades, it becomes a significant condition rarity in Gem Mint State and higher. PCGS expert commentary notes that the 1915-P is "quite a bit rarer" than later Philadelphia issues in Uncirculated condition and "much rarer" in Gem (MS-65+) grades. Unlike its branch mint counterparts, the 1915-P typically exhibits sharp strikes and attractive satin-like luster.
| Grade | Value |
|---|---|
| G-4 | $5 – $6 |
| VF-20 | $15 – $20 |
| XF-40 | $25 – $30 |
| AU-50 | $35 – $45 |
| MS-63 | $95 – $145 |
| MS-64 | $160 – $170 |
| MS-65 | $360 – $500 |
| MS-66 | $500 – $930 |
| MS-67 | $1,250 – $4,320 |
| MS-67+ | $3,360 – $9,600 |
Recent auction records include $1,680, $3,120, and $4,320 for MS-67 examples (2024-2025), and $9,600 for an MS-67+ specimen (February 2024).
Grade comparison: G-4 (heavy wear, flat details) vs VF-20 (moderate wear) vs MS-65 (full mint luster)
1915-D Denver Business Strike
The 1915-D is a respected semi-key date with a mintage of 7,569,000. It commands significantly higher values than the Philadelphia issue across all grades. The primary challenge is strike quality: the 1915-D is notorious for weak strikes, particularly on the buffalo's horn and the Indian's hair braid. This creates a "market grading" dilemma where a coin with full mint luster (technically Uncirculated) may display details that appear to be only Very Fine. Consequently, a well-struck 1915-D with full details commands substantial premiums over weakly struck examples of the same numerical grade.
| Grade | Value |
|---|---|
| G-4 | $20 – $25 |
| VF-20 | $75 – $80 |
| XF-40 | $130 – $140 |
| AU-50 | $160 – $180 |
| MS-63 | $360 – $375 |
| MS-64 | $700 – $710 |
| MS-65 | $1,450 – $1,600 |
| MS-66 | $4,500 – $5,750 |
| MS-67 | $18,500 – $20,125 |
Recent auctions realized $4,000 to $4,920 for MS-66 examples (2024-2025). The auction record for MS-67 stands at $20,125.
1915-S San Francisco Business Strike
The 1915-S is the key-date business strike of the year and one of the major rarities in the entire Buffalo Nickel series. With a mintage of only 1,505,000, its rarity is universal across all grades. PCGS commentary identifies it as "one of the most expensive Buffalo nickels in low grade," while NGC analysis estimates a total survival of just 6,000 coins in any condition. Strike quality is variable; while some examples are well-struck, many exhibit weak details.
| Grade | PCGS Guide | NGC Guide |
|---|---|---|
| G-4 | $65 | $45 |
| VF-20 | $235 | $195 – $225 |
| XF-40 | $425 | $375 – $425 |
| AU-50 | $600 | $500 – $550 |
| MS-63 | $1,750 | $1,125 – $1,560 |
| MS-65 | $4,500 | $2,925 – $3,515 |
| MS-66 | $6,250 | $3,850 – $5,875 |
| MS-67 | $50,000 | $40,000 |
Significant price divergences (over 30%) exist between PCGS and NGC guides for Mint State examples, reflecting a volatile market highly dependent on individual coin attributes. Recent auction results confirm this volatility: MS-65 examples have sold from $2,600 (February 2024) to $4,800 (May 2024), while MS-66 examples ranged from $4,560 (June 2024) to $6,600 (August 2023). The auction record stands at $55,813 for an MS-67 specimen (2019).
1915 Matte Proof
The 1915 Proof Buffalo Nickel is a major numismatic rarity with a mintage of only 1,050 pieces. These collector strikings feature a distinctive Matte Proof (or "Satin Proof") finish created by sandblasting the dies, resulting in a fine, granular, non-reflective surface. Stack's Bowers notes that the 1915 Proof is "one of the best produced and most consistently attractive Proofs of the type" but is "considerably rarer in the highest grades" than the 1914 issue.
| Grade | Value |
|---|---|
| PF-63 | $1,900 – $2,100 |
| PF-64 | $2,100 – $2,600 |
| PF-65 | $2,600 – $3,000 |
| PF-66 | $2,800 – $3,300 |
| PF-67 | $4,000 – $5,500 |
| PF-68 | $14,000 – $15,000 |
Recent auction results (2021-2025) include $2,880 and $3,252 for PF-66 examples, $4,800 and $5,400 for PF-67 specimens, and $14,400 for a PF-68 example (June 2025). A significant outlier auction record of $240,001 was set in November 2024 for a top-population specimen, likely the finest-known or unique presentation piece.
Matte Proof finish: Fine, granular, non-reflective surface created by sandblasting the dies
Grading Your 1915 Buffalo Nickel
Grading Buffalo Nickels requires understanding both circulation wear patterns and the strike quality issues that plague this series, particularly the 1915-D. The single greatest challenge is differentiating between a weak strike (an Uncirculated coin with incomplete details) and actual circulation wear.
Primary wear points: obverse cheekbone and hair braid; reverse buffalo shoulder and horn tip
Primary wear points to examine:
- Obverse: The Indian's cheekbone shows wear first, followed by the hair and braid detail above the shoulder
- Reverse: The buffalo's shoulder (haunch), hip, and horn tip are the first areas to flatten with circulation
Key diagnostic: Weak strike vs. circulation wear
A weak strike occurs when insufficient pressure during minting fails to fully bring up the design details, particularly on the high points like the horn or hair braid. However, the coin retains full, unbroken mint luster in the surrounding fields and protected areas. When tilted under light, a weakly struck Uncirculated coin will display the characteristic "cartwheel" luster effect.
Weak strike (left) shows flat details with full luster; circulation wear (right) shows rubbed, dull high points
Circulation wear, by contrast, removes mint luster from the high points through friction. These worn high points will appear duller or smoother than the surrounding lustrous fields. On an About Uncirculated (AU) coin, only trace luster remains on the high points. On Very Fine (VF) and lower grades, no luster remains anywhere on the coin.
Grade descriptions for 1915 Buffalo Nickels:
Good (G-4): Date, LIBERTY, and major design elements are visible but heavily worn. The horn is completely flat, and the Indian's facial features are nearly smooth. On the 1915-S, even in this grade, the coin commands significant value.
Very Fine (VF-20): The horn shows partial detail with about 50% of the original definition visible. The Indian's cheekbone shows wear, but hair lines are partially separated. The braid shows moderate detail.
Extremely Fine (XF-40): The horn retains about 75% of its full detail. The Indian's hair braid shows clear separation of most lines. Light wear is visible on the high points, but most design elements remain sharp.
About Uncirculated (AU-50): Only trace wear appears on the very highest points: the cheekbone, hair above the braid, buffalo's shoulder, and horn tip. Partial mint luster remains in protected areas, particularly around the lettering.
Mint State (MS-60 to MS-70): No trace of wear. The coin exhibits full mint luster, though the quality of that luster, strike sharpness, and freedom from bag marks determine the specific numerical grade. MS-63 coins show moderate bagmarks; MS-65 (Gem) coins have minimal marks and strong eye appeal; MS-67 and higher grades are condition rarities with exceptional surfaces.
💡 Strike Quality Premium
For the 1915-D, a sharply struck example with full horn and braid details can command 20-50% more than a weakly struck coin of the same numerical grade. When purchasing high-grade 1915-D nickels, examine the sharpness of these features carefully.
Major Die Varieties of the 1915 Buffalo Nickel
Several significant die varieties exist within the 1915 Buffalo Nickel series, all attributed by the Fivaz-Stanton (FS) numbering system recognized by PCGS and NGC. These varieties command substantial premiums over regular-strike examples.
1915 Doubled Die Obverse (DDO) FS-101
The 1915 DDO is a prominent doubled die variety most easily recognized by strong doubling of the date "1915." The doubling is most visible on the "19" digits. This variety is attributed as PCGS #38432 and NGC FS-101.
1915 DDO FS-101: Strong doubling visible on date digits, most prominent on '19'
| Grade | Value |
|---|---|
| G-4 / VG | $150 – $250 |
| XF-40 | $650 – $750 |
| AU-58 | $1,300 – $1,500 |
| MS-65 | $5,000 |
A 2019 auction realized $1,320 for an AU-58 example.
1915 "2 Feathers" Variety FS-401
This popular variety is characterized by the absence of the third (lowest) feather in the Indian's hair. The missing feather resulted from a mint employee over-polishing a die, likely to remove clash marks, which effaced the feather detail. It is attributed as PCGS #38433 and FS-401 (also known as FS-014.91).
| Grade | Value |
|---|---|
| G-4 | $50 – $75 |
| VF-30 | $150 – $250 |
| MS-65 | $3,750 |
| MS-66 | $5,000 |
Recent auction activity includes a $147 result for a VF-30 specimen versus a $250 PCGS guide value.
1915-D/D Repunched Mint Mark (RPM)
This variety shows clear repunching of the "D" mint mark, attributed as PCGS #38434. It is a popular RPM variety within the series with an exceptionally wide value spread across all grades.
| Grade | Value |
|---|---|
| AG-3 | $100 |
| AU-55 | $175 – $200 |
| MS (Gem) | $4,920 (Record) |
Recent sales include $179 for AU-55 and a $4,920 auction record for a Gem Mint State example.
1915-S/S Repunched Mint Mark FS-501
This variety features a repunched "S" mint mark, attributed as PCGS #38435 and FS-501. NGC's VarietyPlus service identifies this as an S/S/S triple-punched mint mark, a key diagnostic detail for attribution.
| Grade | Value |
|---|---|
| F-15 | $300 – $400 |
| MS (Gem) | $1,703 (Record) |
Based on 2019 sales of $300-$380 and a PCGS guide value of $400 for F-15 grade.
1915 S/S/S FS-502
NGC also recognizes a distinct 1915 S/S/S FS-502, a separate triple-punched die variety. No reliable public pricing data is available for this specific variety.
1915 Buffalo Nickel Mint Errors
While no reliable public pricing data exists for 1915-specific major error coins in authoritative auction archives or major price guides, the value for such unique items would be determined on a case-by-case basis at auction. However, as a general benchmark, values for common error types on Buffalo Nickel dates are provided below.
Off-center error: Value depends on percentage off-center and whether date remains fully visible
Lamination Errors are common on cupro-nickel coins and occur when the metal planchet separates into layers. Minor lamination flakes or cracks add minimal value, typically $5-$15. Moderate visible lamination cracks may bring $30-$50. Major retained laminations (where a large piece of metal has peeled up but remains attached) or large missing laminations are dramatic and can command $100-$500+ depending on severity and eye appeal.
Die Cuds (Major Die Breaks) occur when a piece of the die edge breaks off, leaving a raised, unstruck "blob" of metal (a "cud") on the coin. Small, clear cuds typically bring $20-$50. Large, dramatic cuds that cover a significant portion of the rim or design can command $50-$100 or more.
Off-Center Strikes have value based on the percentage the coin is off-center and, critically, whether the date and mint mark (if any) are fully visible. Coins struck 5-10% off-center typically bring $20-$40. Those struck 20-40% off-center with date visible command $50-$100. Dramatic off-center strikes of 50% or more with the date visible can bring $100-$250 or more.
ℹ️ Error Coin Values
Error coin values are highly dependent on the dramatic visual impact, the completeness of the error, and the visibility of the date and mint mark. For 1915-S errors in particular, the key date status would add significant premiums to the base error values listed above.
Authenticating Your 1915 Buffalo Nickel
The 1915-S, as a low-mintage key date commanding high prices even in low grades, is a prime target for counterfeiters. Fakes generally fall into two categories: outright counterfeits struck from fake dies, and alterations where an "S" mint mark is added to a more common 1915-P or 1915-D.
Counterfeit detection: Check for mushy relief, missing F initial, bubbly date digits, and tool marks around mint mark
NGC has identified several red flags on known 1915-S counterfeits. Mushy or flat relief is common on fakes, which often lack the sharp, high-relief detail of James Earle Fraser's genuine design. The designer's initial "F," which appears incuse (sunk-in) on the obverse below the date, is frequently missing on counterfeits. Bubbly date digits, where the numbers in the date appear "bubbly" or "pimple-like," indicate a poor-quality counterfeit die. Concentric rim lines, resembling record grooves, suggest the coin was spun on a lathe rather than properly struck.
For altered coins where an "S" mint mark has been added, microscopic examination is critical. An added mint mark may show tooling scratches or a discolored "halo" around the "S," visible under magnification. The mint mark may also appear raised differently than genuine examples or be positioned slightly incorrectly relative to the denomination.
Beyond counterfeit detection, problem coins include those that have been cleaned, which permanently damages numismatic value. Harsh cleaning methods destroy original surfaces and leave diagnostic traces. Hairlines—fine, parallel scratches across the coin's surface visible under magnification—result from rubbing with a cloth or abrasive. Stripped luster gives coins a bright but "lifeless" or sterile appearance; the original mint luster and "cartwheel" effect are gone. Discoloration from acid treatments can leave splotchy, unnaturally pinkish tints on cupro-nickel alloys.
For valuable 1915-S nickels or high-grade examples of any 1915 issue, third-party certification by PCGS or NGC provides authentication and grade verification. These services use advanced diagnostics, including specific gravity testing, metallurgical analysis, and die variety attribution, to confirm authenticity.
Preserving Your 1915 Buffalo Nickel
Proper storage is essential to protect 1915 Buffalo Nickels from environmental damage that can permanently reduce value. Coins should be stored in a dry, dark place with stable, low humidity and minimal temperature fluctuations. Exposure to moisture, temperature swings, or contaminants can cause surface deterioration over time.
The most critical preservation rule is avoiding PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride). Soft, flexible plastic flips contain PVC, which leaches over time and deposits a green, sticky residue that permanently corrodes the coin's surface. Once PVC damage occurs, it cannot be reversed without further harming the coin. Instead, use hard, archival-quality Mylar flips, 2x2 cardboard holders with Mylar windows, or fully encapsulated "slabs" from reputable third-party grading services like PCGS or NGC.
Handling should be minimized and always done by the edges, never touching the obverse or reverse surfaces. Even clean hands contain oils that can leave permanent fingerprints on cupro-nickel surfaces. When viewing coins, hold them over a soft surface to prevent damage if dropped.
Never attempt to clean a Buffalo Nickel. Methods like rock tumblers, vinegar, salt, CLR (Calcium, Lime, and Rust remover), or "SOS pads" (steel wool) destroy numismatic value. What appears to be "restoration" to a novice is permanent damage to a numismatist. Original, untouched surfaces—even if dark or toned—are always preferable to cleaned surfaces.
Recent Auction Results for 1915 Buffalo Nickels
Recent auction activity (2019-2025) demonstrates the strong and sometimes volatile market for high-grade 1915 Buffalo Nickels. The 1915-P in MS-67 has realized prices of $1,680, $3,120, and $4,320, while a single MS-67+ example brought $9,600 in February 2024. These results confirm the condition rarity of Superb Gem examples.
The 1915-D shows consistent demand in top grades. MS-66 examples have sold for $4,000 to $4,920 in 2024-2025 auctions, while the MS-67 auction record stands at $20,125. The premium for well-struck examples versus weakly struck coins of the same grade remains substantial.
The 1915-S key date demonstrates market volatility in Gem grades. MS-65 examples have ranged from $2,600 (February 2024) to $4,800 (May 2024), a spread of over 80%. MS-66 specimens have sold from $4,560 (June 2024) to $6,600 (August 2023). This price variance reflects the market's sensitivity to strike quality, original surfaces, and eye appeal for this low-mintage issue. The MS-67 auction record of $55,813, set in 2019, has held for over five years.
The 1915 Matte Proof has shown stable pricing in recent years. PF-66 examples consistently bring $2,800-$3,300, with recent sales at $2,880 (2024) and $3,252 (2022). PF-67 specimens have realized $4,800 and $5,400 in 2021-2025 auctions. A PF-68 example brought $14,400 in June 2025. The November 2024 result of $240,001 represents an extreme outlier for a top-population specimen and does not reflect typical market values.
Die variety premiums remain strong. The 1915 DDO FS-101 brought $1,320 in AU-58 grade (2019), while the 1915-D/D RPM realized $4,920 for a Gem Mint State example. The 1915-S/S RPM FS-501 achieved $1,703 for a Gem specimen.
Frequently Asked Questions About 1915 Buffalo Nickels
How much is my 1915 Buffalo Nickel worth?
Value depends entirely on mint mark and grade. A common 1915-P in Good condition is worth $5-$6, while the same coin in MS-67+ can bring up to $9,600. The key-date 1915-S ranges from $45-$65 in Good condition to over $55,000 in MS-67. The semi-key 1915-D is worth $20-$25 in Good, rising to $20,000+ in top grades. The 1915 Matte Proof ranges from $1,900 to $15,000 depending on grade.
How do I identify the mint mark on a 1915 Buffalo Nickel?
The mint mark appears on the reverse of the coin, directly below the "FIVE CENTS" denomination. Look for a "D" (Denver) or "S" (San Francisco). Philadelphia coins have no mint mark. Use magnification if needed, as the mint mark is small but clearly visible on problem-free examples.
What makes the 1915-S Buffalo Nickel so valuable?
The 1915-S is a premier key date with a low mintage of only 1,505,000 coins and an estimated survival of just 6,000 pieces in any condition. Its rarity is universal across all grades—it commands high premiums even in Good condition. The combination of low mintage, high collector demand, and significant attrition over 110 years has made it one of the most valuable Buffalo Nickels in the entire series.
How can I tell if my 1915-D is weakly struck or worn?
The key diagnostic is mint luster. A weak strike will have flat details on the horn and hair braid but will retain full, unbroken mint luster in the surrounding fields and protected areas. When tilted under light, it will display the characteristic "cartwheel" effect. Circulation wear removes luster from the high points, leaving them duller or smoother than the surrounding areas. On circulated coins, no luster remains anywhere on the surface.
Should I get my 1915 Buffalo Nickel professionally graded?
For valuable coins, yes. Always certify the 1915-S regardless of grade due to counterfeiting concerns. For the 1915-D and 1915-P, certification is recommended for coins in XF and higher grades, particularly Mint State examples. Grading costs typically range from $20-$50 per coin, which is justified when the coin's value significantly exceeds these fees. Certification provides authentication, accurate grading, and protective encapsulation that enhances marketability.
What is the melt value of a 1915 Buffalo Nickel?
The melt value is negligible—approximately $0.06 based on the coin's cupro-nickel composition (75% copper, 25% nickel). This is functionally equivalent to the coin's five-cent face value. All collectible value is numismatic, driven by rarity, condition, and collector demand. Even the most common 1915-P in Good condition is worth roughly 100 times its melt value.
Can I clean my 1915 Buffalo Nickel to increase its value?
No—never clean a collectible coin. Any cleaning, even "gentle" methods, permanently damages numismatic value and leaves diagnostic traces (hairlines, stripped luster, discoloration) that are immediately recognizable to collectors and dealers. Original, untouched surfaces—even if dark or toned—are always more valuable than cleaned surfaces. If a coin requires conservation, only professional services like NCS (Numismatic Conservation Services) should be used.
What are the major varieties of the 1915 Buffalo Nickel?
Major varieties include the 1915 Doubled Die Obverse (DDO) FS-101 showing strong doubling on the date ($150-$5,000), the 1915 "2 Feathers" FS-401 missing the third feather ($50-$5,000), the 1915-D/D repunched mint mark ($100-$4,920), and the 1915-S/S repunched mint mark FS-501 ($300-$1,703). All are attributed by PCGS and NGC and command significant premiums over regular strikes.
How can I tell if my 1915-S Buffalo Nickel is counterfeit?
Warning signs include mushy or flat relief lacking sharp detail, a missing "F" initial below the date, bubbly or pimple-like date digits, concentric rim lines resembling record grooves, and tool marks or a discolored halo around the "S" mint mark. Due to the high value of authentic 1915-S nickels, always have questionable examples authenticated by PCGS, NGC, or a reputable dealer before purchasing.
What is the difference between a Matte Proof and a regular business strike Buffalo Nickel?
Matte Proofs have a distinctive fine, granular, non-reflective surface created by sandblasting the dies before striking. This gives them a subtle, uniform texture across the entire surface rather than the satiny luster of business strikes. Matte Proofs were struck specially for collectors with a mintage of only 1,050 pieces in 1915, compared to over 20 million business strikes from Philadelphia alone.
Research Methodology and Data Sources
The values, mintage figures, and market analysis presented in this guide are compiled from authoritative numismatic sources. Primary sources include PCGS CoinFacts and NGC Coin Explorer price guides (2021-2025 data), Stack's Bowers Galleries auction archives and market analysis, Heritage Auctions price archives (2019-2025), APMEX and JM Bullion retail pricing data, and GreatCollections auction results (2021-2025).
Technical specifications, die variety attributions, and counterfeit diagnostics are sourced from PCGS and NGC published grading standards, NGC VarietyPlus variety attributions, and official NGC counterfeit detection bulletins. Historical context is drawn from PCGS research articles and numismatic reference materials.
Market values fluctuate based on precious metal prices, collector demand, and individual coin characteristics including strike quality, surface preservation, and eye appeal. Prices represent fair market retail values for problem-free, accurately graded coins as of late 2025. Actual selling prices may vary based on venue (auction vs. private sale vs. dealer retail), individual coin attributes, and market timing. The extreme price volatility observed in 1915-S Mint State coins reflects the sensitivity of this key date market to individual coin quality factors.
