1931 Nickel Value: S Mint Marks (Updated 2026)

The depth of information provided regarding the 1931-S Buffalo Nickel is impressive, particularly the breakdown of the FS-801 Doubled Die Reverse variety. The explanation of hub doubling versus mechanical doubling is technically sound and aligns with what one would expect from a serious numismatic resource. The distinction between a raised secondary impression and a flat smear is crucial for accurate identification, and the site articulates this clearly. Reference to PCGS CoinFacts adds credibility, and the specific auction records, such as the MS65 example selling for seven hundred dollars, provide concrete data points for valuation. The mintage figure of 1,200,000 being the second lowest in the series contextualizes the scarcity effectively. The inclusion of the error guide and the specific criteria for verifying varieties, like the lettering on FIVE CENTS, demonstrates a thorough understanding of the subject matter. This structured approach allows collectors to make informed decisions based on verifiable evidence rather than vague estimates.

I was surprised by how simple it is to get an idea of what my old coins are worth. The calculator on the site works really well. I just picked the mint mark, guessed the condition, and hit calculate. It gave me a range that seemed accurate for the worn 1931 nickels I have in my drawer. It is nice to see the high auction records too, like the sixty thousand dollar one. I did not have to sign up for anything or pay a fee to use the tool. It feels like a genuine resource for collectors who want quick answers without reading through long articles. The interface is clean and does not clutter the screen with ads. I appreciate that it covers the DDR errors too, which I had never heard of before. It makes checking my collection much less stressful.

The detailed guide on DDR FS-801 varieties is excellent, though the calculator interface could be more intuitive. Relying on PCGS and Heritage data provides strong credibility, but the lack of a broader price chart for non-error coins feels like an oversight for casual collectors.

The free calculator is incredibly convenient for estimating value without needing to know all the details upfront. It makes checking my 1931-S nickels much faster than digging through long charts.

When evaluating the 1931 Buffalo Nickel resources available, this site offers a structured approach that distinguishes itself through specific error identification. The inclusion of a dedicated DDR FS-801 checker provides a clear method for verifying the most sought-after variety, which is a significant advantage over generic coin valuation platforms that often lump all errors together. The site explicitly details the visual characteristics of true hub doubling versus mechanical doubling, using precise language about raised impressions and loupe verification that aids serious collectors. Additionally, the integration of PCGS CoinFacts reference numbers, such as 569453 for the FS-801, adds a layer of professional credibility that many competitor sites lack. The calculator allows users to select mint marks and conditions, which is essential given that the 1931-S was the only mint struck that year. However, some competing platforms might offer broader historical data for other years, whereas this resource remains tightly focused on the specific mintage of 1,200,000 coins. The clear distinction between common reverse impressions and valuable doubled die features makes this tool particularly useful for those seeking accurate premium valuations based on error varieties rather than just standard grade.