The US 1935 Nickel, or Buffalo Nickel, was designed by James Earle Fraser and reflects a nostalgic vision of America amid the Great Depression. Its use of nickel—a strong, corrosion-resistant metal—symbolized resilience during economic hardship. The Native American profile and bison reverse honored American heritage as the nation sought unity.
The US 1935 Nickel was minted during FDR’s New Deal reforms, aiming to revive the economy through public works and financial recovery. Fraser’s rugged design, with bold lines and natural motifs, aligned with national themes of strength and perseverance. The coin’s imagery and metal embodied American endurance and identity.