A 1913-D Buffalo Nickel recently sold for an astonishing $99,875 at auction, turning a simple five-cent coin into a collector’s treasure. These iconic coins, no longer in circulation, could be hiding in your old coin collection or loose change. With their unique design and rarity, some Buffalo Nickels are worth thousands. This guide explains why these coins are so valuable, highlights other rare nickels to look for, and shares easy tips to uncover their worth. Let’s dive into the world of Buffalo Nickels!
Why Buffalo Nickels Are So Special
Buffalo Nickels, produced from 1913 to 1938, are popular for their striking design: a Native American on the front and a buffalo on the back. Their value comes from limited production, minting mistakes, or excellent condition. The 1913-D, marked with a “D” from the Denver mint, is especially rare, making it a top pick for collectors. As these coins become harder to find, their prices soar.
The Appeal of Rare Coins
Collectors love Buffalo Nickels for their history and unique features. Coins with low mintage (fewer made) or errors, like misprinted dates, can fetch high prices. A well-preserved coin with clear details, like the buffalo’s horn, is worth much more than a worn one.
Spotlight: The 1913-D Buffalo Nickel
The 1913-D Buffalo Nickel is a star in the coin world. Only 5.3 million were made in Denver, far fewer than other years. Its value depends on condition—coins with sharp details can sell for tens of thousands. The one that sold for $99,875 was in near-perfect shape, showing why collectors pay big for quality.
Why Condition Matters
A coin’s condition, or grade, affects its price. A 1913-D with a clear date and buffalo details is worth more than a faded one. Professional grading services like PCGS or NGC can evaluate your coin’s condition to confirm its value.
Other Rare Buffalo Nickels to Find
Besides the 1913-D, several Buffalo Nickels are worth hunting for. Here are five rare ones that could make you rich:
1913-S Type 2
- Mint Mark: S (San Francisco)
- Key Feature: Raised mound design
- Value: Up to $50,000 in top condition
- Only 1.2 million were made, making it a rare find.
1916/16 Doubled Die
- Mint Mark: None
- Key Feature: Doubled date error
- Value: Up to $20,000
- The date appears doubled due to a minting mistake, increasing its worth.
1926-S
- Mint Mark: S (San Francisco)
- Key Feature: Low mintage
- Value: Up to $30,000
- With only 970,000 produced, it’s a tough coin to find.
1937-D 3-Legged Buffalo
- Mint Mark: D (Denver)
- Key Feature: Buffalo has three legs
- Value: Up to $90,000
- A famous error where the buffalo appears to have only three legs.
1918/7-D Overdate
- Mint Mark: D (Denver)
- Key Feature: Date shows “7” under “8”
- Value: Up to $100,000
- A rare error where the date was misprinted.
Quick Reference Table
| Nickel Name | Mint Mark | Key Feature | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1913-D | D | Low mintage | Up to $99,875 |
| 1913-S Type 2 | S | Raised mound | Up to $50,000 |
| 1916/16 | None | Doubled date | Up to $20,000 |
| 1926-S | S | Low mintage | Up to $30,000 |
| 1937-D 3-Legged | D | Three legs | Up to $90,000 |
How to Identify a Valuable Buffalo Nickel
Spotting a rare Buffalo Nickel is easier than you think. Follow these simple steps:
Check the Date and Mint Mark
- Look at the date on the front and the mint mark (D for Denver, S for San Francisco) below the buffalo on the back.
- Use a magnifying glass to spot errors like doubled dates or a three-legged buffalo.
Look for Errors
- Compare your coin to images in coin guides or trusted websites.
- Errors like misprinted dates or missing legs make a coin more valuable.
Preserve Condition
- Don’t clean your coin—cleaning can damage it and lower its value.
- Store it in a protective holder to keep it safe.
What to Do If You Find a Rare Nickel
If you think you’ve found a valuable Buffalo Nickel, take these steps:
Get It Evaluated
- Visit a trusted coin dealer or send it to a grading service like PCGS or NGC.
- They’ll verify if it’s genuine and assess its condition.
Avoid Quick Sales
- Don’t sell it on your own without knowing its true value.
- Auction houses like Heritage Auctions can help you get the best price.
Research Your Options
- Learn about your coin’s market value using online resources or coin price guides.
- A professional can guide you on whether to sell or hold onto it.
Start Your Buffalo Nickel Hunt Today
You don’t need to be an expert to find a valuable Buffalo Nickel. Check your spare change, old family collections, or coins stashed in jars. With a 1913-D selling for nearly $100,000, these coins are hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Grab a magnifying glass and start your treasure hunt—your next nickel could be worth a fortune!
Conclusion
Buffalo Nickels are more than just old coins—they’re pieces of history with the potential for big payouts. From the rare 1913-D to the quirky 1937-D 3-Legged Buffalo, these nickels can turn pocket change into thousands. By learning what to look for and how to handle them, you can uncover a valuable coin in your own collection. Start searching today and see if you’re holding a collector’s dream!