Buffalo nickels, minted between 1913 and 1938, are among the most iconic and cherished coins in American numismatics. These nickels are renowned for their artistic design, which features a Native American on the obverse and an American bison on the reverse.
While most Buffalo nickels are relatively common, a few rare specimens command staggering prices, reaching over $500,000 in auctions and private sales. These valuable coins often have unique minting errors or limited production runs, making them treasures for collectors.
1913 Liberty Head Type 1
This coin represents a transitional design from the Liberty Head nickel to the Buffalo nickel. Struck in extremely limited numbers, it is known for its bold strike and exquisite details. High-grade examples of this coin are rare and highly coveted.
1916 Doubled Die Obverse
The 1916 Buffalo nickel features one of the most dramatic doubled die errors in American coinage history. The doubling on the obverse is clearly visible, making it a standout piece for error coin collectors. This rarity is known to fetch over $500,000 in pristine condition.
1937-D Three-Legged
The three-legged buffalo is a result of an error during the die-polishing process. This mistake eliminated one of the buffalo’s legs, creating one of the most famous error coins in U.S. history. Its uniqueness and scarcity make it a cornerstone of Buffalo nickel collections.
1926-S Buffalo Nickel
The 1926-S Buffalo nickel has the lowest mintage of any regular-issue coin in the series, making it a rarity in the numismatic world. High-grade examples are especially difficult to find, leading to skyrocketing prices at auction.
1918/7-D Overdate
The 1918/7-D Buffalo nickel is a classic overdate error caused by reusing dies from the previous year. This coin exhibits a clear overdate on the obverse, with the “7” visibly overlapping the “8.” Its historical significance and rarity contribute to its high value.
1913-S Type 2
This coin, minted in San Francisco, is recognized for its exceptionally low mintage and high demand among collectors. Its sharp details and limited production make it one of the most desirable Buffalo nickels in existence.
1936-D Doubled Die Obverse
Another doubled die error, the 1936-D Buffalo nickel, features noticeable doubling on the obverse. Collectors prize this coin for its dramatic error and its place in the history of numismatic mistakes.
| Coin Name | Year of Minting | Error/Feature | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1913 Liberty Head | 1913 | Transitional Design | $500,000+ |
| 1916 Doubled Die | 1916 | Doubled Obverse | $550,000+ |
| 1937-D Three-Legged | 1937 | Missing Buffalo Leg | $575,000+ |
| 1926-S | 1926 | Lowest Mintage | $500,000+ |
| 1918/7-D Overdate | 1918 | Overdate Error | $550,000+ |
| 1913-S Type 2 | 1913 | Limited Production | $600,000+ |
| 1936-D Doubled Die | 1936 | Doubling on Obverse | $525,000+ |
Buffalo nickels remain a fascinating segment of U.S. coinage, combining artistry, history, and rarity. Whether you are a seasoned collector or a novice, the thrill of discovering a rare Buffalo nickel is unparalleled. Coins like these not only offer a glimpse into America’s past but also serve as highly valuable investments.
