5 Most Valuable Buffalo Nickels, From Least to Most Expensive

Buffalo nickels, officially known as Indian Head nickels, were minted by the United States from 1913 to 1938. Renowned for their distinctive design featuring a Native American chief and an American bison, these coins have become highly sought after by collectors.

The value of a Buffalo nickel is influenced by factors such as rarity, minting errors, and overall condition.

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In this article, we will explore the top five most valuable Buffalo nickels, ranked from least to most expensive, providing detailed insights into each coin’s unique characteristics and the reasons behind their high value.

1. 1924-S Buffalo Nickel

The 1924-S Buffalo nickel is notable for its low mintage of approximately 1.4 million coins. Despite its relatively higher mintage compared to other rare Buffalo nickels, its value is significantly enhanced when found in high-grade conditions.

Coins graded at MS-66+ have been known to fetch prices around $105,750 at auctions. The coin’s value is primarily attributed to its limited mintage and the scarcity of well-preserved specimens.

2. 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel

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A unique error coin, the 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo nickel features a buffalo with only three legs due to a die polishing error. This distinctive feature makes it highly valuable among collectors.

Coins in MS-67 grade have been sold for approximately $99,875. The rarity of this error and the limited number of surviving specimens contribute to its high market value.

3. 1918/7-D Overdate Buffalo Nickel

The 1918/7-D Overdate Buffalo nickel is distinguished by an overdate error, where the ‘8’ was struck over a ‘7’, resulting in a flat-topped ‘8’. This error occurred at the Denver Mint and is highly prized by collectors.

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Coins in MS-65 condition have been known to sell for around $350,750. The overdate error and the coin’s historical significance contribute to its substantial value.

4. 1916 Doubled Die Obverse Buffalo Nickel

The 1916 Doubled Die Obverse Buffalo nickel exhibits a doubling of the date and the word ‘Liberty’ on the obverse due to a die misalignment. This error makes the coin particularly rare and valuable.

High-grade specimens have been auctioned for approximately $281,750. The doubling error and the coin’s age enhance its desirability among collectors.

5. 1926-S Buffalo Nickel

The 1926-S Buffalo nickel is the rarest of all Buffalo nickels, with a mintage of only 970,000 coins. Its scarcity, combined with the coin’s age and historical significance, makes it highly valuable.

Coins in MS-66 grade have been known to sell for around $322,000. The low mintage and the coin’s excellent preservation contribute to its exceptional market value.

Top 5 Most Valuable Buffalo Nickels

Understanding the factors that contribute to the value of Buffalo nickels can enhance your appreciation of these historical coins and guide you in identifying valuable specimens.

FAQs

What makes a Buffalo nickel valuable?

The value of a Buffalo nickel is determined by factors such as rarity, minting errors, and the coin’s condition. Coins with low mintage numbers, unique errors, and high-grade preservation are particularly valuable.

How can I identify a 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo nickel?

This coin features a buffalo with only three legs due to a die polishing error. The missing front leg and the ‘moth-eaten’ appearance of the back leg are distinctive features.

What is an overdate error in Buffalo nickels?

An overdate error occurs when a coin is struck with a die that has an earlier date beneath the intended one. For example, the 1918/7-D Overdate Buffalo nickel has a ‘7’ struck beneath the ‘8’, resulting in a flat-topped ‘8’.