This coin so limited and valuable it might turn your financial future upside down overnight. That’s what happened with certain models of the Buffalo Nickel, one of America’s most memorable and coveted coins in history.
Recently, collectors and numismatists have been buzzing about a Buffalo Nickel valued at over $601,000, and there’s a chance one could still be hiding in your change jar or tucked away in an old drawer.
What Is the Buffalo Nickel?
The Buffalo Nickel, also called the Indian Head Nickel, was struck in the United States between 1913 and 1938. It bears the likeness of a Native American on the front and an American bison, more popularly called a buffalo, on the back.
Designed by James Earle Fraser, the coin was made to commemorate America’s heritage and drew acclaim for its beauty. Its unique appearance made it popular among collectors, and some of the rare types have since grown to be worth a lot of money.
Why Are Some Buffalo Nickels Worth So Much?
Not every Buffalo Nickel is worth a king’s ransom, but a few of the rare ones are highly sought after by collectors. These coins can fetch very high prices because
- Low mintage (not many were produced)
- Minting mistakes
- Historical value
- High condition (high grade)
- Rarity of specific date/mint mark pairings
One of the most fabled coins is the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel (technically not a Buffalo Nickel but commonly associated because of the transition year), which has brought millions. In the actual Buffalo series, the 1916 Doubled Die Obverse and the 1918/7-D Overdate nickels are some of the priciest, selling for more than $100,000 and in mint condition, even more than $601,000.
The Famous 1918/7-D Overdate Nickel
The 1918/7-D The Buffalo Nickel ranks as one of the most sought-after coins in the annals of American numismatics. It’s an “overdate” coin because the mint made a mistake when it punched the date “1918” over a die on which “1917” was already inscribed leaving a noticeable overlapping number.
These types of mint mistakes are very scarce and well sought after. Only a few are known to exist, particularly in higher grades, which is why one sold for more than $350,000 back then and based on the market, might be worth more than $601,000 today in its original condition.
What Makes a Buffalo Nickel Valuable
If you have a Buffalo Nickel and are wondering whether it could be one of the high-value variants, consider the following:
Date and Mint Mark:
The coin’s date and mint location can significantly impact value. Key years include:
- 1913 (Type 1 and Type 2)
- 1916 Doubled Die
- 1918/7-D Overdate
- 1921-S
- 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo
Condition (Grade):
Coins are graded from 1 to 70. A mint state (MS65 and above) Buffalo Nickel of a scarce year or error can sell for thousands, even hundreds of thousands.
Errors or Oddities:
Coins with striking errors like missing features, double dates, or misaligned designs are usually more valuable.
The Legendary 1937-D “Three-Legged” Buffalo Nickel
This error coin is another highly valued variety. The buffalo on the back is lacking its front right leg because the die was over-polished at the Denver Mint. This error made one of the most well-known minting errors in U.S. history.
A 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel in good condition can easily sell for $100,000 or more at auction.
How to Check If You Have a Rare Buffalo Nickel
Here’s a brief guide to grading your coin:
- Step 1: Check the Date
- Check for 1913, 1916, 1918/7, 1921-S, and 1937-D. These are the most valuable.
- Step 2: Look for a Mint Mark
- Found under the words “FIVE CENTS” on the back. “D” = Denver, “S” = San Francisco, and no mark = Philadelphia.
- Step 3: Check for Errors
- Carefully look for doubling of numbers or letters, missing legs, or features spaced strangely.
- Step 4: Evaluate the Condition
- If your coin has crisp details and minimal wear, it may be worth something.
Where to Sell a Valuable Buffalo Nickel
If you think your Buffalo Nickel is valuable or rare, don’t sell it on eBay without checking its value. Here’s what you need to do:
- Get It Professionally Graded: Reputable companies such as PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service) or NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Company) can grade and authenticate your coin.
- Visit Local Coin Shops or Auctions: Seek advice from professionals regarding value and market demand.
- Consider Reputable Online Dealers: If doing it online, select highly reviewed numismatic platforms or auction companies.
Why You Should Check Your Pocket Change
Although Buffalo Nickels have not been produced after 1938, many have not been redeemed and are kept in circulation within collections, wills, or forgotten coin jars. You could have one within reach!
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Since individuals tend to ignore the small amount of money at their places, you might unknowingly be the owner of a six-figure coin and not even know it. It’s not a dream there have been reported stories about fortunate discoveries by collectors and regular citizens.
Final Thoughts
The Buffalo Nickel is more than a sentimental slice of American history to others, it’s a life-altering investment. With one coin worth more than $601,000 recently, there’s no good reason not to take another look at your collection of coins.
Whether you’re an avid collector or merely curious, it’s time to dig through those old coins your treasure may be in your pocket at the moment.
FAQs:-
What is the Buffalo Nickel and why is it valuable?
The Buffalo Nickel is a U.S. coin minted between 1913–1938, and rare variants are highly valuable due to minting errors or limited production.
Which Buffalo Nickel is worth over $601,000?
The 1913 Liberty Head (V-Nickel) and 1918/7-D overdate Buffalo Nickel are among the rarest, fetching hundreds of thousands at auctions.
Where can I sell a rare Buffalo Nickel?
You can sell it at certified coin auctions, through dealers, or online marketplaces that specialize in rare coins.
