1921-S 5C MS(PCGS#3948)

1921-S 5C MS (PCGS#3948)

June 2026 Showcase Auction U.S. Coins

Lot Description: A beautifully toned example displaying target-like iridescent reddish-apricot, powder blue, antique gold and silver-lilac. The finish is softly frosted with strong mint luster readily appreciable. The level of preservation is outstanding, the surfaces smooth enough to support an MS-66 grade were the coin just a bit more sharply struck on the bison's head and in the centers on both sides. Among the finest certified for this challenging issue, nonetheless, and worthy of the strongest bids.<p>The 1921-S is one of the most difficult Buffalo nickels to locate in high grades and with strong aesthetic appeal. For starters this is a scarce issue due to a mintage of 1,557,000 pieces and a high rate of attrition suffered through circulation. Indeed, most survivors are well worn and grade no finer than VG. Perhaps surprisingly, low end Mint State examples are more available than those in EF and AU grades, but the former are usually poorly struck with other unappealing attributes such as planchet laminations, toning streaks and/or heavy flowlines. All of these attributes point to the use of worn dies and otherwise poor workmanship on the part of San Francisco Mint personnel. Interested parties are urged to bid strongly as the opportunity to acquire a superior quality Gem 1921-S nickel usually comes along only once in a long while.