Rare Buffalo Nickel: Buffalo nickels are some of the most sought-after coins in the numismatic world. Many collectors spend years searching for rare varieties and valuable errors that can turn an ordinary five-cent piece into a small fortune. Whether you are a seasoned coin collector or just getting started, keeping an eye out for these rare buffalo nickels could be a game-changer. Here are some valuable buffalo nickels you should always be on the lookout for.
1918/7-D Buffalo Nickel – A $25,000 Treasure
One of the rarest buffalo nickels is the 1918/7-D variety, which features an overdate error where the number “8” is stamped over a “7.” This error occurred due to the U.S. Mint’s practice of repurposing old dies, leading to an overlap in the date. If you have a USB coin microscope, you can inspect your 1918 buffalo nickels closely to check for this unique feature. This specific coin, graded AU58 (About Uncirculated 58), sold for over $25,000 at auction!
1924-S Buffalo Nickel – A Collector’s Dream
The 1924-S buffalo nickel is another key date in the series. With a low mintage and high demand, this coin can fetch a significant price, especially in higher grades. One such example, in great condition, sold for over $2,400!
1925-S Buffalo Nickel with an RPM Error
The 1925-S buffalo nickel is notable for its Repunched Mint Mark (RPM) error. This means that the “S” mint mark on the back of the coin was stamped more than once, causing a doubling effect. Collectors prize these coins, and one example recently sold for over $2,300.
1926-S Buffalo Nickel – Scarcity Equals Value
With only 970,000 pieces minted, the 1926-S buffalo nickel is one of the lowest-mintage issues in the series. Even in lower grades, this coin holds significant value. A well-preserved AU58 example sold for over $2,500.
1935 Buffalo Nickel with a Double Die Reverse (DDR)
The 1935 buffalo nickel features a valuable double die reverse (DDR) error, where the lettering and design elements on the back of the coin appear doubled. This is particularly noticeable in the words “FIVE CENTS” and “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.” A high-quality example of this error coin fetched over $11,000 at auction!
1936-D Buffalo Nickel – The Famous Three and a Half Legs Error
One of the most famous errors in the buffalo nickel series is the three-and-a-half legs variety found on the 1936-D buffalo nickel. In this error, part of the buffalo’s front leg is missing due to excessive die polishing at the mint. This unusual variety is highly collectible, and even a VF20 (Very Fine 20) graded coin sold for over $2,400.
1937-D Buffalo Nickel – The Coveted Three-Legged Nickel
Similar to the 1936-D three-and-a-half legs error, the 1937-D buffalo nickel features an even more extreme version – the three-legged buffalo. The front leg was almost completely removed due to die polishing, making this coin one of the most famous error nickels in history. One example of this variety sold for over $2,400.
1916 Buffalo Nickel with a Doubled Die Obverse (DDO)
The 1916 buffalo nickel is another must-watch coin due to its doubled die obverse (DDO) error. This means that the date and other elements on the front of the coin were imprinted twice, creating a visible doubling effect. A well-preserved example can bring in thousands of dollars, making it one of the top error coins in the series.
Final Thoughts
If you’re serious about Rare Buffalo Nickel coin collecting, investing in a USB coin microscope is a great way to spot these rare errors and varieties. Coins that may appear ordinary to the naked eye could turn out to be worth thousands! Keep checking your buffalo nickels, and who knows? You might just find a hidden treasure in your collection.