Buffalo nickels are some of the most iconic coins in American history. First minted in 1913, they hold a special place in the hearts of numismatists. Beyond their artistic design, certain Buffalo nickels are incredibly rare and valuable, with some fetching over $500,000 at auction.
These coins are sought after for their historical significance, unique minting errors, and pristine conditions. If you’re curious whether you own one of these treasures, read on.
1918/7-D Overdate Buffalo Nickel
The 1918/7-D Buffalo nickel is a legendary coin among collectors. It features an overdate error where the “8” in the date was punched over a “7.” This unique error occurred during the minting process and is one of the most valuable Buffalo nickels due to its rarity and high demand.
1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickels
The 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo nickel is famous for its missing fourth leg on the buffalo. This error occurred due to over-polishing of the dies at the Denver Mint. Collectors prize this coin for its distinct appearance and scarcity in mint condition.
1913-S Type 2 Buffalo Nickels
The 1913-S Type 2 Buffalo nickel was minted in San Francisco and is notable for its redesigned reverse, featuring a raised ground under the buffalo. With a low mintage and excellent craftsmanship, it is among the rarest and most expensive Buffalo nickels.
1926-S Buffalo Nickels
The 1926-S Buffalo nickel is one of the lowest-mintage coins in the series. Coins in pristine condition are incredibly scarce, making this one a valuable prize for collectors willing to pay top dollar for its rarity and historical significance.
1924-S Buffalo Nickels
The 1924-S Buffalo nickel from the San Francisco Mint is another highly coveted coin. Many examples were heavily circulated, so finding one in excellent condition is rare. Its historical significance and scarcity drive its high value.
1916 Doubled Die Obverse Buffalo Nickels
The 1916 Doubled Die Obverse Buffalo nickel is a remarkable coin due to its striking minting error. The doubling on the date and lettering is clearly visible, making it a standout coin in the series. Well-preserved examples can fetch hundreds of thousands of dollars.
1913-D Type 2 Buffalo Nickels
The 1913-D Type 2 Buffalo nickel, minted in Denver, is prized for its high-quality craftsmanship and design. With a low mintage and the transition to the new reverse design, it remains one of the most sought-after coins by collectors.
| Coin Name | Year | Mint Location | Estimated Value (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1918/7-D Overdate | 1918 | Denver | $575,000 |
| 1937-D Three-Legged | 1937 | Denver | $550,000 |
| 1913-S Type 2 | 1913 | San Francisco | $600,000 |
| 1926-S | 1926 | San Francisco | $540,000 |
| 1924-S | 1924 | San Francisco | $510,000 |
| 1916 Doubled Die Obverse | 1916 | Philadelphia | $525,000 |
| 1913-D Type 2 | 1913 | Denver | $530,000 |
The enduring appeal of Buffalo nickels stems from their beautiful design, intriguing errors, and historical importance. Each of the coins listed above represents a remarkable piece of American history. For collectors, owning one of these rare Buffalo nickels is a dream come true and a testament to the timeless allure of coin collecting.
Why are Buffalo nickels so valuable?
Buffalo nickels are valued for their artistic design, historical significance, and the rarity of certain coins with minting errors or low production numbers.
How can I determine if I own a rare Buffalo nickel?
Look for specific features like overdates, missing details, or mint marks. Professional grading services can help verify authenticity and condition.
What is the most valuable Buffalo nickel ever sold?
The 1913-S Type 2 is among the most valuable, with some examples selling for over $600,000.
