Hidden inside old jars, dusty drawers, or inherited collections might be a Buffalo Nickel worth thousands. These classic coins, featuring the Native American profile and mighty buffalo, are more than pocket change—they’re pieces of history with secrets that could surprise even seasoned collectors. Let’s dive into the 10 rarest and most valuable Buffalo Nickels that could turn up where you least expect.
What Are Buffalo Nickels?
The Buffalo Nickel, also known as the Indian Head Nickel, was minted from 1913 to 1938. It’s famous for its bold design—a proud Native American on one side and a bison on the other. What makes certain issues so valuable isn’t just their age but minting errors, low production runs, and historical quirks that make each coin a story of its own.
A Glimpse into Their History
Introduced during America’s artistic coinage era, Buffalo Nickels were part of a push to create coins reflecting the nation’s heritage. Designed by James Earle Fraser, these nickels often suffered from strike issues and rapid die wear, unintentionally creating unique variations. Many of those variations are now worth small fortunes.
Why Collectors Crave These Nickels Today
Buffalo Nickels combine American history, artistry, and rarity. Collectors love them for their rugged charm and the treasure-hunt thrill—because some are so rare they can fetch six figures. Even circulated examples can hold surprising value, especially if they feature rare dates or mint errors.
Top 10 Most Valuable Buffalo Nickels
1. 1918/7-D Overdate Buffalo Nickel
One of the most famous error coins. The “8” was struck over a “7,” creating a clear overdate visible even to the naked eye. Value: $30,000–$100,000+ depending on condition.
2. 1916 Doubled Die Obverse Buffalo Nickel
A strong doubling in the date and LIBERTY makes this error a standout rarity. Value: $15,000–$70,000+
3. 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel
A classic minting blunder, where one leg of the buffalo vanished due to die polishing. Collectors love its distinctive look. Value: $5,000–$100,000+
4. 1926-S Buffalo Nickel
A key date with one of the lowest mintages in the entire series. Tough to find in top grades. Value: $10,000–$75,000+
5. 1913-S Type 2 Buffalo Nickel
The second design variety with raised mound details, struck in limited quantity at San Francisco Mint. Value: $5,000–$50,000+
6. 1914/3 Overdate Buffalo Nickel
Rare and often overlooked, this overdate error is scarce and commands strong prices at auction. Value: $5,000–$25,000+
7. 1921-S Buffalo Nickel
Low mintage and weak strike make this coin especially hard to find in higher grades. Value: $2,000–$15,000+
8. 1935 Doubled Die Reverse Buffalo Nickel
Distinct doubling on the buffalo and inscriptions makes this a favorite among error collectors. Value: $1,000–$10,000+
9. 1913 Type 1 on Raised Ground
While common in lower grades, superb examples or special strikes fetch impressive sums. Value: $1,000–$5,000+
10. 1924-S Buffalo Nickel
Struck in low numbers, often poorly made, making high-grade examples scarce and valuable. Value: $1,000–$10,000+
Top Valuable Buffalo Nickels at a Glance
| Coin Name | Year | Type / Error | Estimated Value Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1918/7-D Overdate | 1918 | Overdate Error | $30,000–$100,000+ |
| 1916 Doubled Die Obverse | 1916 | Doubled Die | $15,000–$70,000+ |
| 1937-D Three-Legged | 1937 | Missing Leg Error | $5,000–$100,000+ |
| 1926-S | 1926 | Low Mintage | $10,000–$75,000+ |
| 1913-S Type 2 | 1913 | Type 2 Variety | $5,000–$50,000+ |
| 1914/3 Overdate | 1914 | Overdate Error | $5,000–$25,000+ |
| 1921-S | 1921 | Low Mintage | $2,000–$15,000+ |
| 1935 Doubled Die Reverse | 1935 | Doubled Reverse Error | $1,000–$10,000+ |
| 1913 Type 1 | 1913 | Early Type | $1,000–$5,000+ |
| 1924-S | 1924 | Scarce Strike | $1,000–$10,000+ |
Quick Collector Tips
| Tip | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Check for Errors | Overdates & doubling can skyrocket value |
| Inspect Mintmarks | “S” and “D” mints often indicate scarcity |
| Grade Your Coins | Higher grades can multiply worth |
| Avoid Cleaning | Cleaning damages value; leave patina intact |
| Use Certified Grading Services | PCGS/NGC validation boosts buyer confidence |
Expert Insights
Experts recommend using a magnifying glass to check details like doubling or faint mintmarks. Keep coins in protective holders and research before selling—some “ordinary” Buffalo Nickels hide extraordinary potential.
FAQs
Q: Can Buffalo Nickels still be found in circulation?
A: Rarely, but they occasionally appear in old rolls or inherited stashes.
Q: Which Buffalo Nickel is worth the most?
A: The 1918/7-D Overdate is among the priciest, reaching over $100,000 in top condition.
Q: Should I clean my old nickels?
A: Never. Cleaning erases original surfaces and reduces value dramatically.
Conclusion: The Hunt Is On
From the legendary 1918/7-D Overdate to the mysterious Three-Legged Buffalo, these coins embody the excitement of discovery. Every collector dreams of spotting one, and now you know which nickels to watch for. Check your change or revisit that coin jar—you might just be holding a Buffalo Nickel worth a fortune.