Early 5-cent pieces weren’t made of nickel — instead crafted from either gold, silver or copper. ... Buffalo or Indian Head nickel (1913-1938) and Jefferson nickel (1938-present).

Unlike the short 25-year life of the Buffalo nickel, the Indian Head penny was introduced before the Civil War and lasted a full half-century until being discontinued in 1909.

In 1913, the U.S. Mint introduced the famous Indian Head nickel. Affectionately called the Buffalo nickel, its design was part of an attempt to beautify American coinage. Unfortunately, it was ...