The Buffalo Nickel, with its iconic Indian head on one side and a buffalo on the other, is a piece of American history that could be worth a fortune. Minted from 1913 to 1938, these coins are loved by collectors, but one rare version, sitting unnoticed in a piggy bank for 30 years, might be valued at thousands of dollars. Stories of people finding valuable coins in old jars or forgotten savings keep the dream alive. Could that dusty piggy bank in your attic hold a treasure waiting to be discovered?
A Coin with a Wild West Vibe
The Buffalo Nickel, designed by James Earle Fraser, captures the spirit of the American West. First made in 1913, it replaced the old Liberty Head Nickel. The Indian head was inspired by real Native American leaders, and the buffalo came from a real animal in New York’s Central Park Zoo. Over 1.2 billion were minted, but certain years and errors make some nickels super rare. A 1918/7-D Buffalo Nickel, for example, can sell for over $350,000 in top condition, and even worn ones might fetch thousands.
What Makes Some Nickels So Valuable?
The value of a Buffalo Nickel depends on its rarity, condition, and minting mistakes. Coins from years like 1916, 1918/7-D, or 1937-D with the famous “Three-Legged Buffalo” error are highly sought after. The 1918/7-D happens when a “7” was stamped over an “8” by mistake, creating a unique overdate. The 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo, caused by an over-polished die that erased one leg, is another prize. Nickels in mint condition—sharp and shiny—can be worth way more than those that are scratched or worn.
How to Spot a Valuable Nickel
If you’re digging through an old piggy bank, here’s what to check:
- Look at the date: Key years include 1916, 1918/7-D, or 1937-D. Check for overdates like “1918/7.”
- Check for errors: The 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo has only three legs on the buffalo side.
- Examine condition: Clear details and no wear mean higher value.
- Find the mint mark: A small “D” (Denver) or “S” (San Francisco) under the buffalo matters. No mark means Philadelphia.
If you think you’ve got a rare one, don’t clean it—cleaning can ruin its worth. Take it to a coin expert or grading service like PCGS or NGC for a professional opinion.
| Rare Buffalo Nickels | Estimated Value | Why It’s Rare |
|---|---|---|
| 1918/7-D Nickel | Up to $350,000 | Overdate error, “7” stamped over “8” |
| 1937-D Three-Legged | Up to $99,000 | Buffalo missing one leg due to die error |
| 1916 Double Die | Up to $281,000 | Doubled design from minting mistake |
Could It Still Be in That Piggy Bank?
The idea that a Buffalo Nickel worth thousands sat in a piggy bank for 30 years isn’t far-fetched. Many people save coins without checking their value, and nickels from the 1930s or earlier can blend in with everyday change. Stories of rare coins found in old collections or inherited jars are real— someone once found a 1918/7-D Nickel in a family piggy bank, selling it for a hefty sum. While most Buffalo Nickels are worth a few bucks, a rare one could change your life. So, crack open that old piggy bank and take a closer look—you might just find a nickel worth a fortune.
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