Imagine digging through your change and finding a coin that could change your life. It might sound unbelievable, but it’s happened before. Certain coins, especially older ones, have soared in value due to rare features or historical relevance. One such coin is the Buffalo Nickel — a coin so iconic that it continues to make headlines even decades after it stopped being minted.
This article explores everything you need to know about the Buffalo Nickel, including how to identify valuable versions, which types fetch the highest prices, and whether a $671,000 Buffalo Nickel really exists in circulation. You’ll learn what sets these nickels apart and how to check your change like a seasoned collector.
The Fascinating World of the Buffalo Nickel
The term Buffalo Nickel refers to a five-cent coin produced in the United States from 1913 to 1938. These coins are known for their unique design — a Native American on one side and a powerful American bison on the other. While most are worth just a few dollars today, certain versions can fetch a small fortune, especially if they have errors or were produced in limited quantities.
Before you toss out that old nickel, take a closer look. You could be holding one of the most sought-after collector’s coins in the world. Here’s a quick overview of some of the rarest and most valuable Buffalo Nickels to keep an eye out for.
Overview Table: Valuable Buffalo Nickels
| Coin Type | Special Feature | Estimated Value | Why It’s Valuable |
| 1913-S Type II Buffalo Nickel | Rare early type from San Francisco | Up to $100,000 | Low mintage, sought after by collectors |
| 1916 Doubled Die Nickel | Double image due to minting error | Over $200,000 | A bold error highly prized in the coin world |
| 1936-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel | Missing front leg on buffalo | Up to $80,000 | Striking mint error that’s easy to identify |
| 1918-D 8 Over 7 Nickel | Overstruck date: 8 punched over 7 | Over $350,000 | Extremely rare date variety |
| Theoretical $671K Buffalo Nickel | Unknown ultra-rare combination | Potentially $671,000 | Could combine rarity, error, and mint condition |
The History of the Buffalo Nickel
The Buffalo Nickel, officially called the Indian Head Nickel, was introduced in 1913 as a redesign of U.S. coinage. It was created by James Earle Fraser, a sculptor who wanted to celebrate Native American heritage and the American West. The coin features a Native American on the front and a buffalo on the back — images that have made it one of the most iconic coins in American history.
Despite its beauty, the design had flaws. The date and other details wore off quickly, which makes well-preserved coins especially rare today. The U.S. Mint discontinued the series in 1938, replacing it with the Jefferson Nickel. Still, the legacy of the Buffalo Nickel continues to attract collectors and curious coin hunters.
The Most Valuable Buffalo Nickels
Not all Buffalo Nickels are created equal. Some are worth only a few dollars, while others can sell for hundreds of thousands. Here are a few of the most valuable types:
- 1913-S Type II: One of the first versions minted in San Francisco, this coin features the buffalo standing on a flat surface instead of a mound. It’s rare and can fetch up to $100,000.
- 1916 Doubled Die Nickel: A printing error caused the date and letters to appear doubled. These mistakes are highly collectible and worth over $200,000.
- 1936-D Three-Legged Buffalo: A famous error where one of the buffalo’s legs was accidentally removed during die polishing. It’s noticeable and valuable, often selling for $80,000 or more.
- 1918-D 8 Over 7: The date shows an 8 stamped over a 7, making it a standout coin worth over $350,000.
Each of these coins combines rarity, historical interest, and sometimes human error — factors that make them incredibly valuable to collectors.
The $671K Buffalo Nickel – Fact or Fiction?
Is a Buffalo Nickel worth $671,000 still out there in circulation? It sounds unbelievable, but it’s not out of the question. While no specific Buffalo Nickel has officially sold for that exact amount, auction prices continue to rise as demand grows.
For a Buffalo Nickel to reach that kind of price, it would likely need:
- Extremely Limited Numbers: A version with only a few surviving coins could drive prices sky-high.
- Major Minting Error: Coins with visible mistakes like double dates or missing elements are very valuable.
- Perfect Condition: A coin with no wear and high grading from a professional service would fetch much more.
- Strong Collector Demand: If the coin gains attention or is part of a famous discovery, its value can skyrocket.
With coin values often rising due to collector interest and market trends, a $671K Buffalo Nickel isn’t entirely fiction — it’s just extremely rare.
How to Identify Rare Buffalo Nickels
Here are some quick ways to check if your Buffalo Nickel might be worth something:
- Examine the Date: Key dates like 1913-S, 1916, and 1936-D stand out. Make sure the date is visible and not worn off.
- Look for Errors: Common errors include doubling of the date, missing buffalo legs, or misaligned prints.
- Check the Mint Mark: Coins with “S” (San Francisco) or “D” (Denver) mint marks are often more valuable than those with no mark.
- Inspect the Condition: Coins with sharp details and minimal wear are more desirable. Even small improvements in condition can mean big jumps in value.
- Use Magnification: Some features, like the overstruck 8 over 7 date, are tiny and easy to miss without a magnifying glass.
- Get It Appraised: If you suspect you have a rare coin, consult a numismatic expert or a professional coin grading service for authentication.
Conclusion
The Buffalo Nickel is much more than a piece of old change — it’s a part of American history that could be worth thousands. Whether the $671K Buffalo Nickel is still out there or not, stories like this continue to inspire coin collectors and everyday people to check their change more carefully.
Collecting coins isn’t just about the money — it’s about history, mystery, and the excitement of finding something truly unique. If you’ve got old coins tucked away, it might be time to take a closer look. That small nickel could be your hidden treasure.
And if this article sparked your interest, leave a comment or share it with others who might want to start their own coin hunt. You never know who might find the next record-breaking Buffalo Nickel.
FAQs
What makes a Buffalo Nickel worth hundreds of thousands of dollars?
Rarity, minting errors, excellent condition, and collector demand are the main reasons these coins become so valuable.
How can I identify a rare Buffalo Nickel in my collection?
Check for specific years, mint marks, and errors like doubling or missing parts. A magnifying glass can help spot tiny details.
Why are minting errors important in coin valuation?
They make coins unique, increase rarity, and are highly sought after by collectors, which boosts their market value.
What is the most valuable Buffalo Nickel ever discovered?
Examples include the 1916 Doubled Die Nickel and the 1918-D 8 over 7 Nickel, which have sold for over $200,000 and $350,000 respectively.
Can I find rare Buffalo Nickels in my everyday pocket change?
Yes, although rare, some Buffalo Nickels are still out there. Always check your change — you could get lucky.
