Lot 236
1913. Type 1. PCGS graded MS-65. PQ. Lovely rich lilac toning. Well struck, a Gem quality example, and the first design. James Earle Fraser had the hubs and master dies for the 1913 Type 1 Nickel made at the Medallic Art Company in New York and submitted them to the Mint, rather than trust the task to the always petulant Mint's Chief Engraver, Charles E. Barber. Fraser had made numerous studies of Native Americans before undertaking the task of creating an Indian head for the nickel. The obverse portrays a mature warrior facing right. His hair is braided in the style of the plains Indians with a ribbon securing the braid. Two feathers are affixed near the part of the hair, and a third one is only partly visible. The garment across his shoulder provides a foundation for the coin’s date, and Fraser’s initial letter ‘F’ appears below the date. On both the original model and the struck coin, the subject appears to be in a contemplative state with eyes half closed. (For a detailed account of this fascinating coin, see David W. Lange’s The Complete Guide to Buffalo Nickels (PCGS # 3915) .
Estimated Value $130 - 140.
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| Realized $112 |
