It could be hiding in your pocket right now — a worn, old-looking coin with a Native American on one side and a buffalo on the other. That simple Buffalo Nickel, often overlooked, could be worth thousands, or even hundreds of thousands, of dollars.
The Buffalo Nickel, minted between 1913 and 1938, is a beloved piece of American history and a cherished coin in the world of numismatics. While many are worth just a few dollars, certain rare versions can fetch eye-popping prices at auction. Here’s why these coins are so valuable and how you can spot one of the rare gems hiding in your change.
What Makes a Buffalo Nickel So Valuable?
Not all Buffalo Nickels are worth a fortune, but the most valuable ones share specific traits that set them apart from the rest. Whether due to minting errors, low production numbers, or poor circulation survival, certain varieties are highly coveted by collectors. Here are some of the most valuable Buffalo Nickels:
1. 1913-S Type 2
The 1913-S Type 2 Buffalo Nickel is a San Francisco mint version with fewer surviving examples. Due to its rarity, these coins have sold for over $60,000 at auction.
2. 1916 Doubled Die Obverse
This is a famous error coin where the date and lettering appear doubled, making it highly sought after. One well-preserved example of this coin fetched over $280,000.
3. 1937-D “Three-Legged Buffalo”
A coin struck with a damaged die caused the buffalo to appear as if it only had three legs. This unique error has turned into a goldmine, with some top-quality examples selling for more than $100,000.
4. 1918/7-D Overdate
A rare overdate error, where the 1917 date was punched over with 1918. These coins are particularly valuable, with some selling for upwards of $350,000.
These rare coins were never intentionally made to be valuable; instead, their worth stems from minting mistakes, low production volumes, or their survival in better condition compared to others.
Why You Should Check Your Pocket Change
Most people assume that valuable coins are only found in museums or private collections, but this isn’t always the case. In fact, some of the most amazing discoveries have been made by everyday people sorting through loose change.
Just recently, stories have emerged about people finding rare Buffalo Nickels in unexpected places — like inherited coin jars, flea markets, or even bank coin rolls. In 2023, for example, a family in Ohio found a 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel in an old piggy bank. They later sold it at auction for a stunning $72,000.
It’s proof that sometimes, the most life-changing discoveries come from something as simple as an old coin hiding in the bottom of a drawer, glove compartment, or forgotten jar.
How to Identify a Rare Buffalo Nickel
If you happen to come across a Buffalo Nickel, here are some key steps to determine if it’s worth more than just its face value:
1. Check the Date and Mint Mark
The year is located just beneath the Native American’s neck, and the mint mark can be found below the “Five Cents” on the reverse side of the coin. These are critical in identifying rare versions.
2. Examine the Condition
Coins that are in better condition (with sharper details and minimal wear) tend to be more valuable. Coins in mint condition can often sell for significantly more than those that have been heavily circulated.
3. Look for Unusual Features
Look closely at the buffalo’s legs, the numbers in the date, and the lettering. Any errors or variations in these features could indicate a rare or valuable coin.
4. Consult with Experts
If you believe you’ve found something special, resist the urge to clean the coin. Cleaning it can lower its value. Instead, take it to a professional coin dealer or appraiser who can properly evaluate its worth.
Don’t Miss Your Chance
The Buffalo Nickel is a perfect reminder that even small things can hold massive value. That coin you’re about to spend or toss aside might be hiding a treasure worth thousands, or even more.
So before you hand it over at the checkout or drop it into a donation jar, give it a second look. The next coin you find could be one step away from a life-changing windfall.
Final Thoughts
The Buffalo Nickel is more than just a collector’s item — it could be a valuable piece of history waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re a seasoned coin collector or just someone with a curious eye, it’s the perfect time to check your change. With a little luck and attention to detail, you might just find a rare gem worth more than you ever imagined.
