Top 10 Most Valuable Buffalo Nickels You Need to Know

By John

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Buffalo Nickels, minted from 1913 to 1938, are treasured by coin collectors for their rarity and connection to American history. Many of these coins have fetched sky-high prices at auctions due to their scarcity, unique minting errors, and high condition grades.

Whether you’re just starting your coin collection or are already a seasoned collector, understanding the value of certain Buffalo Nickels can be a rewarding experience. Let’s explore the top ten most valuable Buffalo Nickels and learn why they’re so sought after.

The Top 10 Most Valuable Buffalo Nickels

1. 1926-S Buffalo Nickel

  • Mint State: MS 66
  • Record Sale Price: $322,000 (2008)
  • Notable Features: This coin holds the highest auction price among Buffalo Nickels due to its extremely low mintage and excellent condition.

2. 1913-S Type 2 Buffalo Nickel

  • Mint State: MS 68
  • Record Sale Price: $40,250 (2001)
  • Notable Features: Known for its clear details and rarity in high-grade examples, this coin is a favorite among collectors.

3. 1937-D 3-Legged Buffalo Nickel

  • Mint State: MS 67
  • Record Sale Price: $99,875 (2006)
  • Notable Features: Famous for a minting error that produced a three-legged bison, making it one of the most famous error coins in U.S. history.

4. 1916 Doubled Die Obverse

  • Mint State: MS 65
  • Record Sale Price: $69,000 (2003)
  • Notable Features: This coin’s doubled die obverse adds to its uniqueness and value, making it highly collectible.

5. 1918/7-D Overdate Buffalo Nickel

  • Mint State: MS 65
  • Record Sale Price: $350,750 (2006)
  • Notable Features: A rare overdate error where the “8” was stamped over a “7,” leading to high prices due to rarity.

6. 1920-D Buffalo Nickel

  • Mint State: MS 67
  • Record Sale Price: $138,000 (2008)
  • Notable Features: Valued for its superb preservation and high grade, this coin is a rare piece from the Denver Mint.

7. 1927-S Buffalo Nickel

  • Mint State: MS 66+
  • Record Sale Price: $125,350 (2008)
  • Notable Features: Though it had a decent mintage, high-grade examples are incredibly rare, boosting its value significantly.

8. 1919-S Buffalo Nickel

  • Mint State: MS 66
  • Record Sale Price: $109,250 (2006)
  • Notable Features: A rare coin in high-grade condition, this Buffalo Nickel is highly sought after by collectors.

9. 1935 Double Die Reverse Buffalo Nickel

  • Mint State: MS 65
  • Record Sale Price: $104,650 (2007)
  • Notable Features: This coin has a double die error on the reverse side, increasing its rarity and desirability.

10. 1914/3 Overdate Buffalo Nickel

  • Mint State: MS 65+
  • Record Sale Price: Information not available
  • Notable Features: Another valuable overdate error that sparks great interest from collectors.

Collecting Tips for Buffalo Nickels

Collecting Buffalo Nickels can be exciting and profitable. Here are some tips for collectors:

  • Aim for the Best Condition: Coins in higher grades often have better future value.
  • Search for Mint Errors: Errors like the 3-legged buffalo or overdate can make coins significantly more valuable.
  • Preserve Your Coins: Handle coins carefully and consider professional grading to confirm their authenticity and condition.

Buffalo Nickels hold a special place in coin collecting due to their historical significance, unique designs, and often high value. Whether you’re just beginning your collection or looking to invest in rare coins,

understanding the value of these top Buffalo Nickels can guide your next steps. With proper care and a keen eye for rare errors or high-grade coins, you can build a collection that’s both meaningful and potentially very valuable.

1. What is a Buffalo Nickel?

The Buffalo Nickel is a five-cent coin minted from 1913 to 1938, featuring a Native American on one side and a buffalo on the other.

2. Why are Buffalo Nickels valuable?

Buffalo Nickels are valuable due to their rarity, historical significance, and unique features like minting errors and high-grade preservation.

3. What is a 3-legged Buffalo Nickel?

The 3-legged Buffalo Nickel is a coin that resulted from a minting error where the buffalo appears to have only three legs. It is highly collectible.

4. How can I preserve the value of my Buffalo Nickels?

To preserve the value, handle coins with care, store them properly, and consider professional grading to confirm their condition.

5. What should I look for when collecting Buffalo Nickels?

Look for coins in the highest possible grade and with rare minting errors, as these often hold the most value in the collector’s market.


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