Smart Buying Guide: How to Acquire a 1913-S Type 2 Buffalo Nickel Without Getting Ripped Off

Historical Significance

The 1913-S Type 2 Buffalo Nickel stands as one of the most coveted dates in the Buffalo series, with the San Francisco mint producing only 2,105,000 pieces. This relatively low mintage, combined with the Type 2 design featuring a more level mound on which the buffalo stands, makes this coin a centerpiece for serious collectors. The Type 2 design was only produced for part of 1913 before being replaced by the Type 1 with the raised mound, adding to its historical importance and collectibility.

Identifying Key Markers

When evaluating a 1913-S Type 2 Buffalo Nickel, several key markers deserve close attention. The mint mark “S” should appear clearly below the denomination on the reverse, positioned just below the words “FIVE CENTS.” The Type 2 can be distinguished from the Type 1 by examining the buffalo’s position on the mound – in the Type 2, the buffalo stands on a more level surface with the denomination recessed into the ground rather than raised on a mound.

The example discussed in our forum thread shows attractive toning, which many collectors prize. The toning appears to be natural rather than artificial, developing over decades of proper storage. When examining images of this coin, pay attention to the detail in the buffalo’s fur, particularly the “chin whiskers” mentioned by one collector – a common characteristic for this date that doesn’t detract from value when present in moderate amounts.

Where to Buy

For acquiring a 1913-S Type 2 Buffalo Nickel, several venues offer different advantages. Major auction houses like Heritage Auctions and Stack’s Bowers regularly feature high-grade examples with professional photography and detailed descriptions. These venues provide authentication and often include TrueView imaging, which shows the coin’s actual appearance under professional lighting.

Online marketplaces such as eBay can offer competitive prices, but require extra diligence. Look for sellers with established reputations, high feedback scores, and clear return policies. The coin discussed in our thread was likely purchased through one of these channels, given the quality of imaging and the mention of professional grading.

Local coin shops and coin shows provide the advantage of in-person examination. Being able to hold the coin and examine it under proper lighting is invaluable, especially for assessing toning and surface preservation. Building relationships with reputable dealers can lead to first access to quality specimens.

Red Flags to Watch For

When purchasing a 1913-S Type 2, several warning signs should prompt caution. Artificially toned coins are common in the market, often achieved through chemical treatments that can damage the coin’s surface over time. Look for signs of uneven coloration or suspiciously vibrant colors that seem too perfect.

Counterfeits, while not extremely common for this date due to the complexity of the design, do exist. Pay special attention to the mint mark – counterfeits often show signs of tooling or incorrect positioning. The strike quality should be consistent with San Francisco mint standards of the era, with full details in the buffalo’s fur and clear definition of the Indian’s features.

Be wary of sellers who refuse to provide clear, high-resolution images from multiple angles or who are evasive about providing provenance information. The coin in our discussion shows multiple quality images, including a TrueView, which demonstrates transparency – a positive sign when evaluating any potential purchase.

Negotiating Tips

Successful negotiation for a 1913-S Type 2 requires understanding current market values. Recent auction results show that even circulated examples in the Fine to Very Fine range command significant premiums, with uncirculated specimens showing substantial price jumps at each grade level. Research completed auctions on major platforms to establish a baseline for negotiations.

When dealing with dealers, timing can influence pricing. Coin shows at the end of the day or during slower economic periods may present better opportunities for negotiation. Be prepared to walk away – the 1913-S Type 2, while desirable, is not so rare that you must accept the first offer you receive.

For online purchases, don’t hesitate to ask sellers if they can include additional services like professional grading or better imaging as part of the deal. Some sellers may be willing to split grading costs or provide enhanced photography to secure a sale.

Raw vs. Slabbed Considerations

The decision between purchasing a raw (ungraded) versus slabbed (professionally graded) 1913-S Type 2 involves several factors. The coin in our forum thread appears to be professionally graded and encapsulated, which provides authentication and protects the coin’s condition. Third-party grading from PCGS or NGC adds significant confidence, especially for higher-value coins where the difference between grades can mean thousands of dollars.

Raw coins may offer better value if you have the expertise to accurately assess grade and authenticity. However, for a key date like the 1913-S Type 2, the premium for a slabbed coin is often justified. The cost of having a valuable coin incorrectly graded or discovering it’s counterfeit after purchase far exceeds the grading fee.

If purchasing raw, focus on coins with original surfaces and avoid those with signs of cleaning, polishing, or other alterations. The toning on the example coin appears original and attractive – a characteristic that adds to eye appeal and potentially value. Original coins, even with some wear, typically outperform cleaned or altered examples in the market.

Building Your Collection Strategy

The collector who shared their 1913-S Type 2 mentioned working toward a “fully uncirculated buffalo collection,” a commendable and valuable goal. This approach requires patience and a willingness to wait for the right coins rather than settling for compromised examples. The mention of wanting to “cut everything out and put it in a dansco album” suggests a desire for a cohesive, high-quality set.

When building a high-grade Buffalo Nickel collection, consider focusing on one high-quality example per date/mint mark combination rather than multiple lower-grade coins. The 1913-S Type 2, being one of the “big dates” in the series, deserves special attention and potentially a larger portion of your collecting budget.

Conclusion

The 1913-S Type 2 Buffalo Nickel remains one of the most desirable coins in American numismatics. Whether you’re building a complete set or seeking a single representative example, understanding the market, knowing what to look for, and being patient will serve you well. The coin discussed in our forum thread exemplifies the qualities collectors seek: attractive original toning, good preservation, and proper authentication. With prices continuing to show strength in the numismatic market, a well-chosen 1913-S Type 2 represents both a beautiful addition to any collection and a sound investment for the future.

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