kdolu Buffalo nickel value is something many coin collectors and even regular people are curious about. Maybe you found one in an old drawer, or your grandpa gave it to you. These coins look cool, but how much are they really worth?
In this fun and simple guide, we’ll talk about what makes a Buffalo nickel valuable, how to find its worth, and which ones could make you some serious money. Let’s explore everything you need to know about the value of Buffalo nickels!
🐃 What Is a Buffalo Nickel?
The Buffalo nickel, also known as the Indian Head nickel, was made in the United States from 1913 to 1938. It shows a Native American on one side and a buffalo on the other. The buffalo is actually based on a real bison named Black Diamond from the Central Park Zoo in New York!
🕰️ Why Are Buffalo Nickels Valuable?
Buffalo nickels aren’t just old—they’re full of history. People love collecting them because of their design and the time period they come from. But here’s the fun part: not all Buffalo nickels are worth the same. Some are only worth a few cents, while others can go for hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
🔍 Factors That Affect Buffalo Nickel Value
🗓️ 1. Date and Mint Mark
This is super important. Some years and mint marks are very rare. Look at the date on the coin and the small letter under the “FIVE CENTS” on the back. That letter is the mint mark, and it shows where the coin was made:
- No mint mark = Philadelphia
- D = Denver
- S = San Francisco
Rare years and mint marks to watch for:
- 1913-S Type 2
- 1916 Doubled Die Obverse
- 1921-S
- 1937-D “Three-Legged” Buffalo
These coins can be very valuable!
🌟 2. Condition (or Grade)
Coins are like toys—the better the condition, the more they’re worth. Coin collectors use grades like:
- Good (G)
- Very Fine (VF)
- Extremely Fine (EF)
- Mint State (MS)
Even common Buffalo nickels can be worth a lot if they’re in Mint State condition.
🔎 3. Rarity
If a coin is hard to find, more people want it. That’s why low-mintage coins (not many were made) usually have higher values.
💰 4. Errors and Varieties
Some Buffalo nickels have mistakes made during the minting process. These are called error coins, and they can be worth a lot! A famous one is the 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo. The poor buffalo is missing a leg!
💵 How Much Is My Buffalo Nickel Worth?
Buffalo nickel value can range from $0.50 to over $10,000, depending on the coin. Here’s a simple price guide:
| Year | Mint Mark | Low Grade Value | High Grade Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1913-S Type 2 | S | $25 | $3,000+ |
| 1916 DDO (Doubled Die) | — | $10 | $15,000+ |
| 1921-S | S | $4 | $1,200+ |
| 1937-D Three-Legged | D | $350 | $5,000+ |
| Common Date | — | $0.50 | $50+ |
Prices change over time. Always check a reliable source like the PCGS Price Guide or NGC Coin.
🪞 Buffalo Nickel Types – Type 1 vs Type 2
In 1913, the first Buffalo nickels had the buffalo standing on a raised mound. That design was quickly changed because it wore out too fast.
- Type 1 (early 1913) – Buffalo on a raised mound
- Type 2 (late 1913 to 1938) – Buffalo standing on a flat ground
Type 1 nickels are more valuable because fewer were made.
🧰 How to Check Buffalo Nickel Value
Here’s how you can check your coin’s value step by step:
- Check the date and mint mark.
- Look at the condition. Is it shiny or worn?
- Search for rare errors or missing legs!
- Use online price guides like CoinStudy.
- Visit a local coin shop for a second opinion.
🧼 Should You Clean a Buffalo Nickel?
Never clean your coin! It might seem like a good idea, but cleaning actually lowers its value. Collectors want coins in their natural condition.
🧠 Fun Buffalo Nickel Facts
- The Native American design came from combining the faces of three different chiefs.
- The coin was created by James Earle Fraser, a famous sculptor.
- The buffalo side was almost removed, but people loved it so much, it stayed!
📦 Where Can You Sell Buffalo Nickels?
If you think your coin is worth something, here’s where to sell:
- eBay – Great for rare coins, but you need good photos.
- Coin dealers – They know how to grade and price your coins.
- Coin shows – Meet lots of buyers and collectors.
- Online auctions – Like Heritage Auctions, where rare coins sell for big money.
🙋♀️ FAQs About Buffalo Nickel Value
❓ What is the most valuable Buffalo nickel?
The 1916 Doubled Die Obverse and 1913-S Type 2 are two of the most valuable. They can sell for thousands of dollars in great condition.
❓ How can I tell if my Buffalo nickel is rare?
Check the date, mint mark, and look for errors like missing legs or double images. A coin price guide helps too.
❓ What if my Buffalo nickel has no date?
Buffalo nickels often wear down, and the date disappears. These are called dateless nickels. They’re usually worth only 10 to 50 cents, unless they have an error.
❓ How do I store Buffalo nickels safely?
Use coin holders or albums to keep them dry and clean. Avoid touching the front or back directly.
❓ Can I still use a Buffalo nickel to buy stuff?
Technically yes, it’s still 5 cents, but most are worth much more than face value, especially rare ones!
🏁 Final Thoughts
Buffalo nickels are more than just old coins. They tell a story, and some can even be worth a lot of money. By looking at the date, mint mark, condition, and possible errors, you can find out if your coin is special.
So grab a magnifying glass and check those nickels! You might have a small fortune hiding in your pocket.
For more helpful coin information, check out Numismatic Guaranty Company (NGC) and Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS).
