1915 Buffalo Nickel (Proof) Matte Finish
About This Coin
James Earle Fraser’s Buffalo nickel remains a masterpiece of American coinage, capturing the raw, textured spirit of the West. While the circulating issues are beloved, the matte proofs struck at the Philadelphia Mint between 1913 and 1916 represent the purest expression of Fraser's artistic vision. These coins were treated more like medalets than currency, showcasing the design's intricate details without the distraction of a brilliant finish.
The 1915 issue is a celebrated representative of this short-lived proof format. At the Proof 66 level, certified by CACG, the delicate, granular surfaces of the matte finish are preserved with remarkable fidelity. Because contemporary collectors often confused these matte finishes with ordinary business strikes, very few were preserved in such pristine, untouched condition.
For the advanced specialist, this piece offers a rare opportunity to appreciate Fraser's work exactly as the artist intended. It is a quiet, sophisticated acquisition that anchors any serious twentieth-century cabinet.
