1914 S Buffalo Nickel Value and Price Guide for Collectors

The 1914-S Buffalo Nickel is worth anywhere from $25 in heavily worn condition to over $1,000 in uncirculated mint state. Whether you found one in an old jar or inherited a collection, this San Francisco minted coin is a prized find for any everyday American looking to turn vintage change into real cash.

Why the 1914-S Buffalo Nickel is a Special Find

The 1914-S Buffalo Nickel holds a special place in American numismatic history because it was only the second year this iconic design was produced. While the Philadelphia mint pumped out millions of these coins, the San Francisco mint—indicated by that tiny “S” on the back—produced a much smaller quantity. In 1914, only about 3.9 million of these nickels were struck in San Francisco, making them significantly rarer than their East Coast counterparts.

If you are trying to determine if your coin is the real deal, you can use a top coin identifier app to get an instant scan and identification. Many people find that using the CoinKnow app helps them distinguish between common dates and the more valuable early-year mint marks. When you hold a 1914-S, you are holding a piece of the “Old West” era of American coinage, featuring James Earle Fraser’s famous Native American portrait and the majestic American Bison.

Because the design of the Buffalo Nickel was “high relief,” meaning parts of the image stuck out further than the rim, these coins wore down very quickly in circulation. Finding a 1914-S with the date still clearly visible is the first step toward a big payday. Many of these coins had their dates rubbed off entirely by the 1930s, so a surviving specimen with a bold “1914” is always in high demand among collectors.

Understanding the Grade and Condition of Your Nickel

When evaluating your coin, the most important factor is “grade.” This refers to how much wear and tear the coin has seen over the last century. Most 1914-S nickels found today are in “Good” or “Very Good” condition, meaning the details are mostly flat but the outlines are clear. However, if you find one where the buffalo’s horn is sharp or the tail is distinct, the value jumps up exponentially.

To get a better idea of the current market, you can check the latest 1914-S Buffalo Nickel auction prices for high-grade specimens. Professional collectors use a 70-point scale to grade coins. A coin graded MS65 (Mint State) is a “gem” and can sell for thousands of dollars at major auctions. For the average person, most coins will fall between G4 (Good) and EF40 (Extremely Fine).

If you aren’t sure where your coin falls on this scale, the CoinKnow app can guide you through the grading process by comparing your photo to professional samples. Even a small amount of original “luster”—that shiny, satiny look on a new coin—can double the value of a 1914-S. Always remember: never clean your coins! Scrubbing an old nickel with polish or soap will actually destroy its collector value instantly.

1914-S Buffalo Nickel Value Comparison Chart

The following table provides estimated values based on recent market trends and dealer buy prices. These figures represent what you might expect to receive from a shop or see at a coin show.

Condition / Grade	Estimated Market Value
Good (G-4)	$25 – $35
Very Good (VG-8)	$45 – $60
Fine (F-12)	$80 – $110
Very Fine (VF-20)	$150 – $190
Extremely Fine (EF-40)	$275 – $350
About Uncirculated (AU-50+)	$450 – $650
Mint State (MS-63)	$900 – $1,200

Where to Find the Mint Mark and Why It Matters

Identifying the “S” mint mark is vital for confirming you have the more valuable version of this coin. Flip your nickel over to the “tails” side. Look at the bottom of the coin, directly underneath the words “FIVE CENTS” and the buffalo’s mound. If you see a small “S” there, congratulations—you have the San Francisco mint version. If it is blank, it was made in Philadelphia, and if there is a “D,” it was made in Denver.

While all 1914 nickels have value, the “S” mint is typically the most expensive of the three in lower grades. You can learn more about the specific 1914 Buffalo Nickel price details for all mint marks to see how yours compares. The scarcity of the “S” is due to the lower production numbers at the San Francisco facility during the early 20th century, which makes it a “semi-key date” in the Buffalo Nickel series.

Many people who use the CoinKnow app are surprised to find that a coin they thought was worth five cents is actually worth fifty dollars or more just because of that one tiny letter. Always use a magnifying glass or a high-resolution camera to verify the mint mark, as dirt and grime can sometimes hide the “S” or make a “D” look like an “S.”

Tips for Selling Your 1914-S Nickel

Once you’ve identified your coin and estimated its value, you might decide it’s time to sell. To get the best price, you should avoid taking it to a generic “We Buy Gold” shop, as they often pay only a fraction of the collector value. Instead, look for reputable local coin dealers or consider listing the coin on platforms like eBay, where collectors bid against each other.

For coins that appear to be in “Mint State” (looking brand new), it is often worth the investment to have them “slabbed” or certified by professional grading services like PCGS or NGC. A certified grade guarantees the authenticity and quality of the coin, which makes it much easier to sell for a high price. If your coin is worth several hundred dollars, getting it professionally graded is almost always a smart move.

Finally, keep your coin in a protective flip or a PVC-free plastic holder. Humidity and oils from your fingers can cause the metal to tarnish or develop “carbon spots,” which lowers the eye appeal and the price. Treat your 1914-S Buffalo Nickel like the treasure it is, and you may find that it becomes a valuable asset or the start of a fascinating new hobby.

FAQ

Q: Is a 1914-S Buffalo Nickel rare?

A: Compared to modern coins, yes. With only 3.9 million minted and many lost or worn down over the last 110 years, it is considered a semi-key date that is highly sought after by collectors.

Q: Where is the mint mark on a 1914-S Nickel?

A: The “S” mint mark is located on the reverse (back) of the coin, centered below the “FIVE CENTS” text and the ground the buffalo is standing on.

Q: What if my 1914-S Nickel has no date?

A: Unfortunately, Buffalo Nickels with “no date” are usually only worth about $0.50 to $1.00 as “cull” coins. However, because the 1914-S is a better date, some people use chemical restorers to reveal the date, though this significantly lowers the collector value.

Q: How can I tell if my coin is authentic?

A: Counterfeits exist, but they are rare for this specific date. Check the weight (it should be 5 grams) and look for the specific shape of the “S” mint mark. Using a specialized app can help you spot any red flags.