1935 Buffalo Nickel Value Guide: What's It Worth Today?

1935 Buffalo Nickel values range from $3 in Good condition to over $100,000 for rare varieties. Learn about the key date 1935-D and famous Doubled Die Reverse.

Quick Answer

The 1935 Buffalo Nickel is worth $3 to $104,650, depending on mint mark, grade, and variety.

  • Common dates (1935-P, 1935-S): $3–$15 circulated, $40–$2,650 uncirculated
  • Key date (1935-D): $3–$43 circulated, $72–$34,800 uncirculated (scarce in Gem)
  • Top variety: 1935 Doubled Die Reverse (FS-801) reached $104,650 in MS-65

The 1935-D is the true key date of this year in high grades despite having a higher mintage than the 1935-S, due to poor survival rates in Gem condition and prevalent weak strikes.

What's Your 1935 Nickel Worth?

Select your coin's mint mark and condition to get a value estimate.

Mint Mark — Where was your coin made?
D
Denver
P
Philadelphia
S
San Francisco
Mint mark location: Reverse
Condition — How worn is your coin?
Heavy Wear
Very smooth, details hard to see. Looks like it circulated for decades.
Moderate Wear
Main design visible, but high points are clearly worn flat.
Light Wear
Most details sharp, only slight wear on the highest points.
No Wear (Uncirculated)
Looks brand new with original luster. No signs of circulation.

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About Rare Varieties & Errors
This tool estimates typical values for standard coins only. If your coin has unusual features (minting errors, repunched dates, doubled dies), it may be worth significantly more. Consider posting photos on r/coins or CoinTalk for community feedback.

1935 Buffalo Nickel: Overview and Market Position

The 1935 Buffalo Nickel represents a fascinating chapter in Depression-era American coinage. Produced at all three active U.S. Mints—Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco—this year's output totaled over 80 million coins intended for everyday commerce. While the high-mintage Philadelphia issue remains readily available to collectors, the year is defined by the scarcity of its branch-mint coins in top grades and one of the most dramatic die varieties in the entire series.

1935 Buffalo Nickel obverse showing Native American portrait and reverse showing American Bison

Contrary to mintage figures alone, the 1935-D Denver issue stands as the true key date in Mint State and Gem (MS-65 or higher) condition, despite having a higher mintage than the 1935-S. This rarity stems from heavy circulation wear, widespread weak strikes, and extremely low survival rates of high-grade specimens. The year also hosts the famous 1935 Doubled Die Reverse (FS-801), which commands six-figure prices in top condition. This guide provides comprehensive pricing data, grading diagnostics, and variety identification to help collectors accurately assess their 1935 Buffalo Nickels.

How to Identify Your 1935 Buffalo Nickel

All 1935 Buffalo Nickels feature the iconic Type 2 design, which was introduced partway through 1913. On the obverse, you'll see a right-facing composite portrait of a Native American, designed by sculptor James Earle Fraser. The designer's initial "F" appears below the date on the obverse. The reverse displays the American Bison (buffalo) standing on a raised mound.

The critical distinguishing feature of Type 2 is the denomination placement: "FIVE CENTS" is inscribed on a flat, recessed line below the mound, rather than directly on the raised mound itself as seen on early 1913 Type 1 coins. This design change was made to prevent the denomination from wearing away prematurely in circulation.

Close-up of 1935 Buffalo Nickel reverse showing mint mark location below FIVE CENTS

Mint Mark Location and Identification

The mint mark on a 1935 Buffalo Nickel is located on the reverse side, directly below the denomination "FIVE CENTS." There are three possible mint marks for 1935:

  • No Mint Mark (Philadelphia): If the area below "FIVE CENTS" is blank, your coin was struck at the Philadelphia Mint. This is the highest-mintage issue at 58,264,000 pieces.
  • "D" (Denver): A capital "D" indicates Denver Mint production. With 12,092,000 minted, this is the key date in high grades.
  • "S" (San Francisco): A capital "S" marks the lowest-mintage issue at 10,300,000 pieces, though it's more available than the 1935-D in Gem condition.

💡 Strike Quality Matters

Many 1935-D coins, in particular, suffer from weak strikes that leave the bison's horn poorly defined or completely flat. A coin with a "Full Horn" (FH)—showing complete, sharp detail on the bison's horn—commands a significant premium over a weakly struck coin of the same numerical grade. This designation indicates strike quality, not the absence of wear.

The cupro-nickel composition (75% copper, 25% nickel) gives Buffalo Nickels their characteristic silver-gray appearance. Unlike copper cents, these coins do not receive Red (RD), Red-Brown (RB), or Brown (BN) color designations from grading services. Value in uncirculated grades depends on the quality of mint luster and the presence of attractive, original toning.

1935 Buffalo Nickel Value by Mint and Grade

The market for 1935 Buffalo Nickels shows significant variation across the three mint facilities. While circulated examples are affordable regardless of mint, the high-grade market reveals dramatic differences in both availability and value. The following tables present retail values based on major price guides (PCGS, NGC) as of late 2025, supplemented with recent auction results.

Comparison of 1935 Buffalo Nickel in circulated grade versus mint state showing difference in wear and detail

1935 Philadelphia (No Mint Mark)

As the high-mintage issue, the 1935-P is readily available in all circulated grades and lower Mint State grades. Strike quality is typically good compared to the branch mints. The primary challenge lies in locating examples in the highest grades (MS-67 and above). A significant discrepancy exists between price guide values and recent auction results at the Gem level—the PCGS Price Guide indicates $19,000–$45,000 for MS-67, but recent 2019–2023 auction sales for PCGS MS-67 and MS-67+ coins show actual transactions in the $1,380–$3,120 range. This suggests the guide value may be heavily influenced by a single 2007 auction record of $57,500 for a top-population MS-68.

GradePCGS Price GuideNGC Price Guide
G-4$4$0.50–$3.00
VF-20$7$10
EF-40$13–$15$15
AU-50$22–$24$20
MS-60$40–$45$40
MS-63$200–$225$95
MS-65$950–$2,650$437
MS-67$19,000–$45,000$2,500

Note: Recent auction results (2019–2023) show MS-67 specimens selling for $1,380–$3,120, significantly below guide values.

1935-D Denver ("D" Mint Mark)

This is the key date of 1935 in high grades. Despite having a higher mintage than the 1935-S, its survival rate in Gem condition is significantly lower. PCGS estimates only 1,000 examples survive in MS-65 or better. Furthermore, this issue is notorious for weak strikes, with poorly defined horns commonly encountered. The value curve is exponential—while affordable in circulated grades, values explode in MS-65 and above.

GradePCGS Price GuideNGC Price Guide
G-4$3$1.25
VF-20$10$10
EF-40$20$25
AU-50$43$35
MS-60$72$57
MS-63$98$85
MS-65$278$325
MS-67$5,750$5,000

Auction Record: An MS-67+ specimen sold for $34,800 in March 2021, representing a condition census coin.

⚠️ Weak Strike Alert

The 1935-D is notorious for poor strikes. Many uncirculated examples have flat, poorly defined horns and weak details on the Indian's hair. A coin with Full Horn designation will command substantially more than a weakly struck coin of the same numerical grade.

1935-S San Francisco ("S" Mint Mark)

The 1935-S has the lowest mintage of the year at 10,300,000 pieces and carries a premium over the 1935-P in all grades. However, it is more available in Gem condition than the 1935-D. Like the Philadelphia issue, this coin shows a disconnect between price guides and the current auction market at the MS-67 level. PCGS values MS-67 at $3,250, but a review of 2024–2025 auction data reveals consistent sales in the $1,140–$2,160 range.

GradePCGS Price GuideNGC Price Guide
G-4$3$0.05–$3.00
VF-20$6$4
EF-40$9$13
AU-50$20$19
MS-60$60$65
MS-63$85$69
MS-65$230$220
MS-67$3,250$2,239–$7,000

Auction Record: An MS-67+ specimen sold for $15,275 in 2019.

Grading Your 1935 Buffalo Nickel

Buffalo Nickel grading focuses on the high points of the design, which wear first: the Indian's cheekbone and hair above the braid on the obverse, and the bison's shoulder, hip, and horn on the reverse. The following descriptions apply to business strikes, as no Proof nickels were produced in 1935.

Annotated 1935 Buffalo Nickel showing key areas where wear appears first for grading

Good (G-4): The date is readable but worn. On the obverse, the outline of the portrait is visible but details are worn smooth. The date may be weak. On the reverse, the buffalo's body is visible but most fur detail is gone, and the horn may be completely worn away.

Very Fine (VF-20): The Indian's cheekbone shows moderate wear but retains shape. About half the hair detail above the braid is visible. On the reverse, the buffalo's horn is complete and separated from the forehead, and partial fur detail shows on the shoulder and hip. The coin has moderate overall wear but all major design elements are clear.

Extremely Fine (EF-40): The Indian's cheekbone shows only slight wear. Three-quarters of the hair detail above the braid is visible. On the reverse, the horn is sharp with full separation from the head. Most fur detail is visible on the shoulder, hip, and head. Light wear is visible only on the highest points.

Comparison showing Full Horn versus weak strike on 1935 Buffalo Nickel

About Uncirculated (AU-50): Only traces of wear are visible on the highest points: the cheekbone and hair above the braid on the obverse, and the shoulder and hip on the reverse. The horn shows no wear but may lack full detail due to a weak strike (this is a strike issue, not wear). Original mint luster is visible in protected areas, particularly around the lettering.

Mint State (MS-60 to MS-63): No wear is present. The coin shows full mint luster, though it may be subdued or uneven. At MS-60, numerous contact marks are present, with some in focal areas. At MS-63, contact marks are fewer and lighter, not in prime focal areas. Strike quality varies—weakly struck coins (common on 1935-D) will have incomplete horn detail even without wear.

Three 1935 Buffalo Nickels showing grade progression from VF-20 to AU-50 to MS-65

Gem Mint State (MS-65 to MS-67): Outstanding eye appeal with strong, original luster. Few contact marks, none in focal areas. At MS-65, light marks may be present but not distracting. At MS-67, the coin is essentially mark-free with exceptional surfaces and strike. These grades command significant premiums, especially for the 1935-D.

📊 The Full Horn Premium

A coin graded MS-64 with a weak, flat horn may be worth less than an MS-63 with Full Horn designation. The strike quality, indicated by the sharpness and completeness of the bison's horn, is a critical value factor independent of the numerical grade. Always examine the horn carefully when evaluating Buffalo Nickels.

Superb Gem (MS-68 and above): Exceptionally rare for 1935 Buffalo Nickels. These coins exhibit virtually flawless surfaces with full, blazing luster and exceptional strike. They represent the finest survivors and command premium prices far above typical Gem coins.

1935 Buffalo Nickel Die Varieties and Repunched Mint Marks

The 1935 Buffalo Nickel series hosts several collectible die varieties, including one of the most dramatic and valuable doubled dies in the entire series. These varieties result from errors in the die production process and can add substantial value to common-date coins.

1935 Buffalo Nickel Doubled Die Reverse FS-801 showing dramatic doubling on FIVE CENTS and E PLURIBUS UNUM

1935 Doubled Die Reverse (FS-801)

This is the most significant variety of 1935 and one of the most prominent doubled dies in the Buffalo Nickel series. The doubling is exceptionally strong and widespread on the reverse, most dramatically visible on the legends "FIVE CENTS" and "E PLURIBUS UNUM." The variety is designated as Variety Vista 1-R-IV and FS-801 in the Fivaz-Stanton reference.

Rarity: This variety is extremely scarce, designated R-6.0 (approximately 500 survivors) in all grades by PCGS. In Mint State (MS-60 or better), it reaches R-9.0 (approximately 25 survivors), and in Gem condition (MS-65 or better), it's an R-9.8 rarity (approximately 4 survivors known).

Value Progression: The variety likely came from a single late-stage die and went largely unnoticed, entering heavy circulation. This creates a dramatic "hockey stick" value curve. Low-grade examples are accessible, with 2024 auction results showing Fine-15 specimens at $65 and Very Good-10 at $63. However, in uncirculated condition, values skyrocket—the auction record for an MS-65 specimen is $104,650, established by PCGS CoinFacts.

1935 Doubled Die Reverse (FS-803)

A secondary doubled die reverse variety, designated FS-803 and Variety Vista 3-R-V-CW. While less dramatic than the FS-801, this variety still shows clear doubling and is highly collectible. The auction record for this variety is $5,463 for an MS-61 specimen, set in 2010.

1935-D Repunched Mint Marks (RPMs)

At least eight distinct Repunched Mint Mark varieties are cataloged for the 1935-D by specialists at Variety Vista. The most significant is:

1935-D RPM-002 (FS-502): A dramatic D/D/D/D quadruple-punch showing repunching to the Southwest, Southeast, and Northeast. This is the only 1935-D RPM with substantial independent value. PCGS lists an auction record of $999 for this variety in XF-40 grade.

The remaining varieties (RPM-001, RPM-003 through RPM-008) show minor repunching in various directions. These are "cherrypicker" varieties with no reliable public pricing data from major grading services, though specialists may pay premiums of $75–$200 in circulated grades or $300–$1,000 in uncirculated condition.

1935-S Repunched Mint Marks (RPMs)

At least nine distinct RPM varieties are cataloged for the 1935-S by Variety Vista, including several S/S East, S/S North, and S/S South varieties. RPM-006 is notable as an S/S/S triple-punch to the Northeast and West. However, there is no reliable public pricing available from PCGS or NGC for any specific 1935-S RPM variety. These remain specialist items valued generically within the RPM market.

💡 Identifying Doubled Dies and RPMs

Strong magnification (10x or higher) is essential for variety attribution. For the 1935 DDR FS-801, look for clear separation and doubling on the letters in "FIVE CENTS" and "E PLURIBUS UNUM." For RPMs, examine the mint mark for evidence of multiple punches creating a layered or offset appearance. Reference images from Variety Vista are invaluable for confirmation.

1935 Buffalo Nickel Mint Errors

In addition to die varieties, 1935 Buffalo Nickels are found with several types of minting errors. These production mistakes can significantly increase value, though prices vary widely based on the error's severity, eye appeal, and grade. The 1935 date is noted as a "rich hunting ground for cud breaks" according to numismatic sources.

Off-Center Strikes: These errors occur when the planchet is improperly positioned between the dies, resulting in a coin with its design off-center and a portion of the planchet remaining blank. Value increases dramatically with the percentage the coin is off-center. A 1935 nickel struck 14% off-center graded MS-62 by PCGS sold for $537.35. A more dramatic 35% off-center strike in MS-63 sold for over $1,300. In circulated grades, 10–50% off-center strikes typically range from $300 to $800 depending on how much of the date and design remain visible.

Lamination Errors: These result from flaws in the planchet alloy that cause metal to flake, peel, or crack on the coin's surface. Minor lamination flakes add a small premium, often $10–$25. However, major laminations can be valuable—a "major obverse lamination" on a 1935 nickel graded F-15 sold for over $190. The value depends on the size and location of the lamination and whether it affects important design elements.

Clipped Planchets: These errors show a curved, crescent-shaped "clip" missing from the coin's edge, which occurred when the blank planchet was punched from the metal strip too close to a previous punch. The missing portion creates a distinctive curved indent. Typical value ranges are $150–$300 in circulated grades, rising to $500–$1,000+ in Mint State condition. Larger clips command higher premiums.

Die Breaks (Cuds): When a piece of the die breaks away, the resulting coin shows a raised, unstruck "blob" of metal where the die fragment was missing. These are often connected to the rim (called a "cud"). Because minor-to-moderate die breaks are relatively common on 1935 Buffalo Nickels, they typically add minimal value ($5–$50) unless the break is dramatic, affects significant portions of the design, or occurs on a high-grade specimen.

📊 Error Value Factors

The value of any mint error depends on four key factors: 1) Severity and dramatic nature of the error, 2) Grade and surface quality of the coin, 3) How much of the date and design elements remain visible, and 4) Eye appeal and overall aesthetic impact. A minor error on a heavily worn coin may add little value, while a dramatic error on a high-grade specimen can be worth hundreds or thousands of dollars.

Authentication and Problem Coin Identification

The values presented in this guide apply only to genuine, collectible-grade coins. Several forms of damage, alteration, and counterfeiting affect 1935 Buffalo Nickels, and coins with these issues will be designated as "Details" or "Problem" grades by professional grading services, severely reducing their value.

Comparison of cleaned versus original uncleaned 1935 Buffalo Nickel surfaces

Identifying Cleaned Coins: Cleaning is one of the most common forms of damage. Abrasive cleaning leaves fine, parallel "hairlines" across the coin's surface, visible under magnification. These scratches destroy the original mint luster and surface texture. Chemical dipping, while less damaging than abrasive cleaning, strips the coin's natural luster, leaving it bright but "lifeless" with an unnaturally even, dull appearance. Cleaned coins are worth substantially less than problem-free examples of the same grade. Always examine surfaces under good lighting at an angle to detect hairlines.

Acid-Treated Dates: Because the date on a Buffalo Nickel is a high point, it often wears away first on heavily circulated coins. Unscrupulous sellers apply acid (such as "Nic-a-Date" product) to the worn area to chemically "restore" the date. This process leaves the metal with a porous, etched, or unnaturally dark and rough texture. The surrounding area may also show discoloration or staining. Coins with acid-treated dates are considered damaged and hold no numismatic value beyond their base metal content.

The 1935 "Two-Legged" Counterfeit: Unlike the famous 1937-D "3-Legged" Buffalo Nickel (which is a valuable mint error), the 1935 "2-Legged" or "Two-Legged" nickel is NOT a genuine mint product. It is a known contemporary counterfeit from the 1930s, often made of "German silver" (a copper-nickel-zinc alloy). While these fakes have curiosity value as historical counterfeits, they are not genuine U.S. Mint products and should not be confused with legitimate varieties or errors.

Added Mint Marks: The substantial value difference between common 1935 Philadelphia coins and scarcer branch-mint issues creates an incentive for fraud. Unscrupulous individuals may add a "D" or "S" mint mark to a 1935-P nickel. These can be crude (glued-on metal pieces) or sophisticated (embossed by pushing up metal from the coin's edge or transferring a mint mark from a damaged coin). Authentication by PCGS or NGC is essential for any high-value branch mint coin, particularly the key 1935-D in Gem grades.

When to Seek Professional Grading: For any 1935 Buffalo Nickel worth over $100, professional authentication and grading by PCGS or NGC is highly recommended. This is particularly critical for: 1) Any 1935-D in MS-65 or higher, 2) Any suspected die variety, especially the FS-801 DDR, 3) High-grade examples (MS-67+) of any mint, and 4) Any coin being purchased at a premium price. The cost of certification ($20–$100+ depending on service level) is minimal compared to the protection it provides against counterfeits, alterations, and overgrading.

Preserving Your 1935 Buffalo Nickel

Proper storage is essential to maintain the value and condition of your 1935 Buffalo Nickel. The cupro-nickel composition is relatively stable compared to pure copper or silver, but these coins still require careful handling to prevent damage and deterioration.

Storage Recommendations: Store your coins in inert, archival-quality holders. The best options include Mylar flips (ensure they are "D" style, which are inert), cardboard 2x2 holders with Mylar windows, or certified holders from PCGS or NGC ("slabs"). Avoid any holders containing PVC (polyvinyl chloride), which is found in many older soft plastic flips. PVC breaks down over time and leaches acidic plasticizers that cause green, sticky residue on coins—this damage, known as "PVC contamination," is permanent and can destroy a coin's value.

Environmental Control: Store coins in a cool, dry environment with stable temperature and low humidity. A safe-deposit box or home safe in a climate-controlled area is ideal. Avoid attics (temperature fluctuations), basements (humidity), and areas near windows (temperature swings and UV exposure). High humidity accelerates corrosion and toning, particularly on the copper component of the cupro-nickel alloy.

Handling Best Practices: Always handle coins by their edges, never touching the obverse or reverse surfaces. Skin oils, salts, and acids can cause permanent spotting and corrosion over time. For uncirculated coins, wear cotton or nitrile gloves. For circulated coins, clean, dry hands are acceptable, but edge-holding is still mandatory. Work over a soft surface (like a felt pad) to prevent damage if you drop the coin. Never attempt to clean a Buffalo Nickel yourself—even gentle cleaning destroys the original surface and reduces value by 50% or more.

Original Surfaces Matter: Collectors and grading services place enormous value on original, unaltered surfaces. Even attractive natural toning should never be removed. A coin with light, even toning will typically be worth more than a harshly cleaned "bright" coin. If you're uncertain about a coin's surfaces, consult with a professional before taking any action. Once original surfaces are altered, that value is lost forever.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is my 1935 Buffalo Nickel worth?

Value depends primarily on three factors: mint mark, grade, and variety. Common 1935 Philadelphia nickels range from $4 in Good condition to $2,650+ in MS-65. The key date 1935-D ranges from $3 in Good to $34,800 for an MS-67+ specimen. The 1935-S falls between these extremes at $3–$15,275. The rarest variety, the 1935 Doubled Die Reverse (FS-801), reached $104,650 in MS-65 grade. Check the mint mark location below "FIVE CENTS" on the reverse to identify your coin.

Which 1935 Buffalo Nickel is the key date?

The 1935-D (Denver) is the key date in Mint State and Gem (MS-65 or higher) grades, despite having a higher mintage than the 1935-S. This is due to extremely low survival rates in high grades, combined with prevalent weak strikes. PCGS estimates only 1,000 specimens survive in MS-65 or better. In circulated grades, all three mint marks are affordable and relatively common.

How do I identify the mint mark on my 1935 nickel?

Look at the reverse (back) of the coin. The mint mark is located directly below the denomination "FIVE CENTS." If this area is blank, your coin is from Philadelphia (58.2 million minted). A "D" indicates Denver (12.1 million minted, key date in high grades). An "S" indicates San Francisco (10.3 million minted, lowest overall mintage but more available than Denver in Gems).

What is a "Full Horn" designation and why does it matter?

"Full Horn" (FH) refers to a Buffalo Nickel with a complete, sharply defined horn on the bison's head. This indicates a strong strike from the dies, not the absence of wear. Many 1935-D coins, in particular, suffer from weak strikes that leave the horn flat or poorly defined even in uncirculated condition. A coin with Full Horn will command a significant premium over a weakly struck coin of the same numerical grade—sometimes 50% more or higher.

Should I get my 1935 Buffalo Nickel professionally graded?

Professional grading by PCGS or NGC is recommended for any coin worth over $100. This is especially important for: 1) Any 1935-D in MS-65 or higher (these are rare and valuable), 2) Any suspected die variety, particularly the FS-801 DDR, 3) High-grade specimens (MS-67+) of any mint, and 4) Any coin you're considering selling for significant money. The certification cost ($20–$100+) is minimal insurance against counterfeits and overgrading.

What is the 1935 Doubled Die Reverse worth?

The 1935 Doubled Die Reverse (FS-801) is one of the most valuable Buffalo Nickel varieties. Values range dramatically by grade: circulated examples (Good-VF) sell for $60–$600, Extremely Fine specimens bring $400–$1,500, About Uncirculated coins reach $500–$3,000, and Mint State examples start at $5,000+. The auction record is $104,650 for an MS-65 specimen. Only approximately 4 examples are known in Gem (MS-65+) condition.

Were any Proof 1935 Buffalo Nickels made?

No. The U.S. Mint did not produce Proof Buffalo Nickels in 1935. The mint produced Matte Proof Buffalo Nickels from 1913–1916, then resumed Proof production in 1936 with Brilliant Proofs. Any 1935 coin advertised as "Proof" is either a high-grade business strike that has been misidentified or, more likely, a polished coin altered to deceive buyers. All legitimate 1935 Buffalo Nickels are business strikes.

How should I store and handle my Buffalo Nickels?

Store coins in inert, archival-quality holders like Mylar flips or certified slabs. Avoid holders containing PVC, which causes permanent green damage. Keep coins in a cool, dry, stable environment—a safe-deposit box or home safe is ideal. Always handle by the edges only, never touching the surfaces. Wear cotton gloves for uncirculated coins. Never clean a coin yourself, as this destroys original surfaces and reduces value by 50% or more.

Recent Auction Results for 1935 Buffalo Nickels

The auction market for 1935 Buffalo Nickels shows significant activity in high grades and for rare varieties, providing important pricing context beyond published guides. The following results represent actual sales from 2019–2025 and illustrate current market trends.

1935 Philadelphia: Recent auction activity reveals a substantial gap between price guide values and actual sales for Gem specimens. While guides list MS-67 at $19,000–$45,000, actual 2019–2023 transactions for PCGS MS-67 and MS-67+ coins occurred in the $1,380–$3,120 range. This suggests the market has cooled or that only exceptional-quality specimens command guide prices. The all-time high remains a 2007 sale of $57,500 for an MS-68 specimen, representing a top-population coin.

1935-D Denver: This key date shows strong performance at all Gem levels. Recent sales include MS-67 specimens at $4,800–$9,900 (2019–2021) and an exceptional MS-67+ that realized $34,800 in March 2021. MS-65 examples sold in the $245–$275 range in 2024, reflecting the coin's scarcity in Gem grades combined with widespread weak strikes reducing the population of Full Horn specimens.

1935-S San Francisco: Similar to the Philadelphia issue, this coin shows a disconnect between guides and recent sales. MS-67 specimens consistently sold for $1,140–$2,160 in 2024–2025, well below the $3,250 PCGS guide value. MS-65 examples brought $215–$228 in 2022–2023. The auction record is $15,275 for an MS-67+ in 2019.

1935 Doubled Die Reverse (FS-801): This famous variety shows the expected rarity-based value curve. Lower-grade examples remain accessible, with 2024 sales showing F-15 at $65 and VG-10 at $63. However, the variety becomes extraordinarily rare in Mint State, with the MS-65 auction record at $104,650.

Research Methodology and Data Sources

This value guide synthesizes data from multiple authoritative sources to provide comprehensive, current pricing information for 1935 Buffalo Nickels. Primary sources include the PCGS CoinFacts database, NGC Coin Explorer, and verified auction results from major numismatic auction houses including Heritage Auctions and Stack's Bowers.

Variety attributions follow the Fivaz-Stanton (FS) and Variety Vista reference systems. Population reports from PCGS and NGC census data inform rarity assessments. Melt value calculations use November 2025 commodity prices from Trading Economics for copper and nickel.

Important Disclaimer: Coin values fluctuate based on precious metal prices, collector demand, economic conditions, and the discovery of new population census coins. The prices presented represent general retail ranges as of late 2025. Actual selling prices vary based on individual specimen quality, eye appeal, strike characteristics, and market timing. For significant transactions, always obtain current market research and consider professional appraisal. Authentication by PCGS or NGC is strongly recommended for any coin valued over $100.

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