Buffalo nickels, officially called Indian Head nickels, were minted between 1913 and 1938 and stand out as some of the most iconic coins in American history. These coins feature a striking design: the obverse displays a Native American chief’s profile, while the reverse showcases an American bison.
Collectors treasure Buffalo nickels for their artistry and historical significance. Although millions were produced, certain dates and varieties are extremely rare due to low production numbers, errors, or unique historical circumstances. If you’re fortunate enough to discover one, you could be holding a coin worth a small fortune. Below is a detailed overview of the 15 rarest Buffalo nickels and their approximate values.
1. 1913-S Type 2 Buffalo Nickel
One of the most sought-after Buffalo nickels is the 1913-S Type 2. This coin is significant because the U.S. Mint altered the reverse design partway through 1913, replacing the original raised mound (Type 1) with a flat plain (Type 2) to slow wear on the design. The San Francisco Mint struck a comparatively low number of these Type 2 coins, increasing their rarity. In circulated condition, this nickel is worth between $300 and $700, but pristine, uncirculated specimens can command over $3,000.
2. 1916 Doubled Die Obverse
The 1916 doubled die obverse is a famous and rare error coin known for pronounced doubling on the date and the word “LIBERTY.” This flaw resulted from a misaligned die during striking. Only a few examples are known, making it one of the most prized doubled die varieties in U.S. coinage history. Circulated coins can fetch between $3,000 and $15,000, while coins in flawless condition have sold at auctions for upwards of $100,000.
3. 1921-S Buffalo Nickel
The 1921-S Buffalo nickel has a relatively low mintage of just over 1.5 million, produced at the San Francisco Mint. Its scarcity is compounded by generally poor strike quality and heavy circulation, which make well-preserved examples hard to find. Even in circulated grades, this coin is valued between $50 and $200, but uncirculated examples can reach values exceeding $5,000.
4. 1918/7-D Overdate Buffalo Nickel
One of the most famous error nickels, the 1918/7-D, features a clear “7” visible beneath the “8” in the date. This overdate occurred because the 1917 die was reused in 1918. These coins are highly prized, with circulated specimens worth from $1,000 up to $10,000. Well-preserved examples can sell for more than $150,000.
5. 1926-S Buffalo Nickel
The 1926-S holds the distinction of being the lowest-mintage regular-issue Buffalo nickel, with only 970,000 produced. While common in worn grades, uncirculated examples are rare and highly sought after. Values range from around $30 for very worn coins to over $10,000 for coins graded MS65 or higher.
6. 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo
A fascinating error caused by excessive polishing of the die resulted in the 1937-D “three-legged” buffalo, where the front leg of the bison appears missing. This dramatic variety stands out and commands a premium price. Even worn specimens typically sell between $700 and $1,000, with mint-state versions sometimes fetching $20,000 or more.
7. 1914/3 Overdate Buffalo Nickel
Another notable overdate is the 1914/3, which shows traces of a “3” beneath the “4.” This error is less obvious than the 1918/7-D but is equally rare. Collectors prize this variety, which can bring $300 to $1,500 in circulated condition, and significantly more for well-preserved specimens.
8. 1913 Liberty Head/Type 1 Transitional Error
A remarkable rarity, the 1913 Liberty Head nickel was mistakenly struck after production had shifted to the Buffalo design. Only five examples of this transitional error exist, making it one of the most famous and valuable coins in U.S. history. In 2022, one sold for over $4.5 million, underscoring its extraordinary rarity.
9. 1924-S Buffalo Nickel
Though the 1924-S is common in lower grades, it is quite difficult to find in well-struck or high-grade condition. Many San Francisco-minted nickels from this period suffer from poor strikes, which makes well-preserved specimens especially valuable. Prices range from about $10 for worn examples up to more than $5,000 for uncirculated coins.
10. 1935 Doubled Die Reverse
This variety features visible doubling on the buffalo’s leg and feathers on the reverse side. While more common than the 1916 doubled die, it remains highly collectible. Prices usually range from $100 to $300 in circulated grades, but gem-quality coins can sell for over $2,000.
11. 1915-S Buffalo Nickel
The 1915-S is an early San Francisco Mint issue with a relatively low mintage and scarcity in well-preserved condition. Circulated coins typically sell for between $50 and $500. Mint state specimens with strong strikes can command prices over $3,000.
12. 1936-D Three-and-a-Half Leg Buffalo
Similar to the three-legged 1937-D, this 1936-D variety features an over-polished die that partially removes the buffalo’s front leg, creating a “three-and-a-half-legged” appearance. This coin is less dramatic but still valuable. Prices usually start around $100 for circulated coins and increase to several thousand dollars for mint state examples.
13. 1927-S Buffalo Nickel
The 1927-S is another low-mintage San Francisco issue that suffers from weak strikes, making attractive examples rare. Circulated coins generally range from $20 to $300, with MS65-grade specimens selling for more than $4,000.
14. 1938-D Buffalo Nickel (Last Year of Issue)
Although the 1938-D had a relatively high mintage, it is collectible as the last year of the Buffalo nickel series. It’s known for its excellent strike quality compared to some other years. In uncirculated condition, this nickel is worth between $30 and $100, while the best graded examples can reach $1,000.
15. 1917-S Buffalo Nickel
The 1917-S nickel is prized for its low mintage and tendency to wear quickly in circulation. It typically sells for $20 to $200 in circulated grades, but well-preserved, mint state coins can exceed $3,000.
FAQs
Q1: What makes a Buffalo nickel valuable?
Factors like rarity, condition, mint errors, and special varieties such as overdates or doubled dies play a major role in increasing a Buffalo nickel’s worth.
Q2: Where can I find rare Buffalo nickels?
Rare Buffalo nickels are occasionally found in old collections, estate sales, or inherited coin jars. Serious collectors often turn to coin shows and reputable dealers.
Q3: Are Buffalo nickels made of silver?
No, Buffalo nickels are composed of 75% copper and 25% nickel. They contain no silver.
Q4: Should I clean my Buffalo nickels?
No. Cleaning coins can dramatically reduce their value. Collectors prefer coins in their original, unaltered condition, even if worn.
Conclusion
Buffalo nickels are more than just coins — they are tangible pieces of American history. Whether you’re an experienced numismatist or a casual collector, knowing about these rare and valuable nickels can be rewarding.
Some of these coins might be hidden in your collection or waiting to be discovered in unexpected places like garage sales or family heirlooms. Stay alert, keep a magnifying glass handy, and you might just uncover a nickel worth thousands.
