The composition of the Buffalo nickel, also known as the Indian Head nickel, is primarily copper and nickel. Specifically, it comprises 75% copper and 25% nickel. This alloy gives the coin its distinctive appearance and durability.
Understanding the metallic makeup of historical coinage is significant for collectors, historians, and those interested in numismatics. Knowing the precise composition allows for accurate valuation, authentication, and a better understanding of the economic context in which these coins were produced and circulated. The absence of precious metals like silver differentiates it from other coins of the era, impacting its intrinsic value and collectibility.