Buffalo Nickels, minted between 1913 and 1938, are among the most iconic and cherished coins in American numismatic history. Designed by sculptor James Earle Fraser, these five-cent pieces feature a Native American profile on the obverse and an American bison on the reverse.
While many Buffalo Nickels are common, certain rare variants have fetched staggering sums at auctions, with some exceeding $500,000. This article delves into the top seven rare Buffalo Nickels that have captivated collectors and investors alike.
1. 1918/7-D Buffalo Nickel (Overdate Error)
The 1918/7-D Buffalo Nickel is renowned for its overdate error, where the digit “8” is stamped over a “7” in the date. This occurred due to the reuse of 1917 dies in 1918, leading to a distinctive overdate. In January 2010, a specimen graded MS64 sold for an impressive $264,500 at auction. In average condition, these coins are valued around $1,713, but pristine examples can command prices up to $650,000.
2. 1916 Doubled Die Obverse Buffalo Nickel
This variety features a pronounced doubling of the date and other obverse elements, resulting from a misaligned die during production. The 1916 Doubled Die Obverse is one of the most sought-after errors in the Buffalo Nickel series. In 2005, an MS64 graded coin realized $264,500 at auction. Even in lower grades, these nickels can fetch several thousand dollars.
3. 1913-S Type 2 Buffalo Nickel
The 1913-S Type 2 Buffalo Nickel is notable for its low mintage and the design modification from Type 1 to Type 2, where the bison stands on a flat plain instead of a raised mound. A specimen in MS66 condition sold for $192,000, highlighting its desirability among collectors.
4. 1917-S Buffalo Nickel
With a mintage of just over 4 million, the 1917-S Buffalo Nickel is scarce, especially in higher grades. In 2008, an MS67 example achieved $138,000 at auction, underscoring its value in exceptional condition.
5. 1926-S Buffalo Nickel
The 1926-S Buffalo Nickel stands out due to its low mintage of 970,000 coins. In 2011, an MS66 specimen sold for $115,000, reflecting its rarity and appeal to numismatists.
6. 1919-S Buffalo Nickel
Despite a mintage of 7.5 million, the 1919-S Buffalo Nickel is rare in mint state due to poor striking quality. An MS66 example fetched $109,250 at auction, making it a coveted piece for collectors.
7. 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel
This error coin resulted from over-polishing of the die, leading to the buffalo appearing to have only three legs. It’s one of the most famous errors in U.S. coinage. In 2006, an MS67 graded coin sold for $99,875, illustrating its significant value.
Top 7 Rare Buffalo Nickels and Their Auction Records
| Year | Variety/Type | Notable Feature | Auction Record | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1918/7-D | Overdate Error | “8” over “7” in date | $264,500 | MS64 |
| 1916 | Doubled Die Obverse | Doubling of date and obverse elements | $264,500 | MS64 |
| 1913-S Type 2 | Low Mintage | Design modification to flat plain | $192,000 | MS66 |
| 1917-S | Low Mintage | Scarce in high grades | $138,000 | MS67 |
| 1926-S | Low Mintage | Only 970,000 minted | $115,000 | MS66 |
| 1919-S | Poor Strike Quality | Rare in mint state | $109,250 | MS66 |
| 1937-D | Three-Legged Error | Missing front leg on buffalo | $99,875 | MS67 |
Buffalo Nickels offer a fascinating glimpse into early 20th-century American coinage. While many are common, certain rare varieties and errors have become highly prized, fetching substantial sums at auctions.
Collectors should be vigilant, as these valuable coins could be hiding in plain sight within personal collections or circulation. Understanding the distinguishing features of these rare nickels is crucial for any numismatist aiming to uncover a hidden gem.
FAQs
What makes the 1918/7-D Buffalo Nickel so valuable?
The 1918/7-D Buffalo Nickel features an overdate error, where the digit “8” is stamped over a “7” in the date, making it a rare and sought-after variety among collectors.
How can I identify a 1916 Doubled Die Obverse Buffalo Nickel?
Look for noticeable doubling in the date and other elements on the obverse side of the coin, a result of a misaligned die during production.
Why is the 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel considered an error coin?
Due to over-polishing of the die, the buffalo on the reverse appears to have only three legs, creating a distinctive and collectible error.
