The Buffalo Nickel, minted between 1913 and 1938, is a cherished piece of American coinage. While many of these nickels are common, certain error variants have become highly sought after by collectors, sometimes fetching prices in the thousands. Identifying these errors can transform an ordinary five-cent piece into a valuable treasure.
Below, we delve into five notable Buffalo Nickel errors, detailing their characteristics and potential values.
1. 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel
One of the most renowned errors in U.S. coinage is the 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel. This error occurred due to excessive die polishing at the Denver Mint, resulting in the buffalo’s front right leg being almost entirely absent.
- Distinguishing Features: The buffalo’s front right leg is missing, giving the appearance of only three legs.
- Approximate Value: Values range from $500 in well-worn condition to over $15,000 for coins in mint state.
2. 1918/7-D Overdate Error
During World War I, a shortage of small-denomination coins led to increased nickel production. Some 1918 Buffalo Nickels from the Denver Mint exhibit an overdate error, where the die from 1917 was repurposed, leading to a faint ‘7’ visible beneath the ‘8’ in the date.
- Distinguishing Features: A clear ‘8’ in the date with remnants of a ‘7’ underneath, noticeable with magnification.
- Approximate Value: Depending on condition, these nickels can fetch between $1,000 and $40,000.
3. 1935 Doubled Die Reverse
The 1935 Buffalo Nickel features a notable doubled die error on the reverse side. This error resulted from a misalignment during the hubbing process, causing a doubling effect on the inscriptions.
- Distinguishing Features: Doubling is evident on the words “FIVE CENTS” and “E PLURIBUS UNUM” on the reverse side.
- Approximate Value: In circulated conditions, these coins can be worth $200 to $1,000, while uncirculated examples may exceed $10,000.
4. 1926-D 3 ½ Leg Error
Similar to the 1937-D three-legged error, the 1926-D Buffalo Nickel exhibits a partial leg due to die polishing. This error is less pronounced but still significantly impacts the coin’s value.
- Distinguishing Features: The buffalo’s front right leg appears partially missing, often referred to as the “3 ½ leg” error.
- Approximate Value: Depending on the coin’s condition, values range from $1,000 to $5,000.
5. 1936-D 3 ½ Legs Buffalo Nickel
The 1936-D Buffalo Nickel also has a notable error where the buffalo appears to have only 3 ½ legs. This error resulted from over-polishing of the die, leading to the partial removal of one of the buffalo’s legs.
- Distinguishing Features: The buffalo’s front right leg is partially missing, giving the appearance of 3 ½ legs.
- Approximate Value: In circulated conditions, these coins can be worth $1,000 to $5,000, while uncirculated examples may exceed $10,000.
Valuable Buffalo Nickel Errors With Values
| Error Type | Year | Mint Mark | Distinguishing Features | Approximate Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Three-Legged Buffalo | 1937 | D | Missing front right leg | $500 – $15,000 |
| Overdate Error | 1918/7 | D | ‘7’ visible beneath ‘8’ in date | $1,000 – $40,000 |
| Doubled Die Reverse | 1935 | None | Doubling on reverse inscriptions | $200 – $10,000+ |
| 3 ½ Leg Error | 1926 | D | Partially missing front right leg | $1,000 – $5,000 |
| 3 ½ Legs Error | 1936 | D | Partially missing front right leg | $1,000 – $10,000+ |
FAQs
Q1: How can I identify a Buffalo Nickel error?
A1: Examine the coin under magnification for anomalies such as missing limbs on the buffalo, doubled inscriptions, or irregularities in the date. Consulting a coin expert or using reputable coin grading services can provide accurate identification.
Q2: Are all Buffalo Nickel errors valuable?
A2: Not all errors are valuable. The value depends on the type of error, its prominence, and the coin’s overall condition. Significant errors like the three-legged buffalo or overdate errors typically command higher prices.
Q3: Where can I sell a Buffalo Nickel with an error?
A3: You can sell error coins through coin dealers, online auctions, or numismatic shows. It’s advisable to have the coin authenticated and graded by a professional service to maximize its value.
Q4: How does the coin’s condition affect its value?
A4: The coin’s condition, or grade, significantly impacts its value. Coins in mint or uncirculated condition are more valuable than those with wear and tear. A certified grading from a reputable agency like PCGS or NGC can increase its market price.
Q5: Can I still find Buffalo Nickel errors in circulation today?
A5: While rare, Buffalo Nickels do occasionally turn up in old coin collections, estate sales, or coin roll hunts. Checking your change carefully or purchasing unsearched nickel rolls can sometimes yield unexpected treasures.
Final Thoughts
The Buffalo Nickel remains one of the most beloved U.S. coins, and error variations make them even more desirable to collectors. Whether you’re an avid collector or just curious about the hidden value of old coins, examining your Buffalo Nickels could lead to an exciting discovery worth thousands of dollars.
Keep an eye out for these rare error coins, and you may just find a valuable treasure hidden in your collection!
