A nickel in 1923 had a face value of 5 cents, but its purchasing power was significantly higher than today. In terms of 2025 dollars, 5 cents in 1923 is worth about $0.94 today, reflecting inflation over more than a century. As a collectible, the 1923 Buffalo Nickel has a value that varies widely based on its condition and mint mark. For a common 1923 nickel without a mint mark (Philadelphia mint), values range from roughly $1.40 in "Good" condition to $80 in "Uncirculated" condition. A more rare 1923-S nickel (San Francisco mint) can be worth from $5 in lower grades to nearly $500 in uncirculated grades. High-grade specimens can fetch even higher prices at auctions, sometimes thousands of dollars for exceptional pieces.
In summary:
- Face value in 1923: 5 cents
- Equivalent value today due to inflation: approx. 94 cents
- Collector value varies from $1.40 to $500+ depending on condition and mint mark
This shows that a nickel in 1923 was worth much more in today's purchasing power and can be worth substantially more as a collectible coin depending on its state and rarity.
