Buffalo Nickel Errors and Varieties Value
Quick answer: Buffalo Nickel errors and varieties can be quite valuable, ranging from $50 for minor errors to several thousand dollars for significant and rare examples. Most circulated Buffalo Nickels are worth face value or slightly more, but specific minting mistakes or die varieties can command high prices from collectors.
Buffalo Nickels, minted from 1913 to 1938, are a beloved series among collectors. While many circulated examples are worth only a few dollars, certain errors and varieties can dramatically increase their value. These anomalies occurred during the minting process, making them unique and sought after.
The value of a Buffalo Nickel error or variety depends on several factors: its rarity, the prominence and visual appeal of the error, and its overall condition (grade). Key elements to examine include the date, mint mark, and any unusual features on the coin's surface, such as doubling, repunching, or missing elements.
Key dates worth serious money
1918/7-D Doubled Die Obverse
$5,000 – $50,000+
1937-D '3-Legged' Buffalo
$500 – $5,000+
1916 Doubled Die Obverse
$1,000 – $10,000+
1936-D 3 1/2 Legs (Variety)
$100 – $1,000
1935 Doubled Die Reverse
$50 – $500
Various Repunched Mint Marks (RPMs)
$50 – $500
The story behind the coin
The Buffalo Nickel, designed by James Earle Fraser, was introduced in 1913, replacing the Liberty Head Nickel. Its design features a Native American chief on the obverse and an American bison on the reverse. The coin's robust design was intended to be distinctly American, moving away from classical European influences. However, the high relief of the design, particularly the date, led to rapid wear in circulation, making it difficult to read the date on many older examples.
The series saw several notable varieties and errors throughout its production run. The most famous is arguably the 1937-D '3-Legged' Buffalo, which resulted from an overzealous polishing of a die that removed one of the bison's legs. Other significant errors include doubled dies, where the design was struck twice from a misaligned die, and repunched mint marks, where the mint mark was struck multiple times or in different positions. These anomalies are a testament to the manual processes involved in coin production during that era.
Frequently asked questions
How can I tell if my Buffalo Nickel has an error?
Carefully examine your coin under magnification. Look for doubled letters or numbers (doubled die), extra metal (cuds or die breaks), or mint marks that appear to be struck more than once or in an unusual position (repunched mint mark). Compare your coin to known error examples online.
Are all Buffalo Nickel errors valuable?
No, not all errors are valuable. Minor die chips or very slight doubling that is barely perceptible typically add little to no premium. The value depends on the rarity, visibility, and collector demand for that specific error type. Most circulated Buffalo Nickels without significant errors are worth only a few dollars.
What is the most valuable Buffalo Nickel error?
The 1918/7-D Doubled Die Obverse is generally considered the most valuable Buffalo Nickel error, with examples in high grades selling for tens of thousands of dollars. The 1937-D '3-Legged' Buffalo is also highly sought after.
Should I clean my Buffalo Nickel error coin?
Absolutely not. Cleaning a coin, especially an error coin, can significantly damage its surface and drastically reduce its numismatic value. Always preserve the coin in its original condition. If you believe you have a valuable error, consult with a professional coin grader or dealer.
Related value guides
Susan B. Anthony Dollar Value (1979–1999)
Bicentennial Quarter Value (1776–1976)
1943 Copper Penny Value
Values shown are typical retail ranges for the grades described, based on recent dealer and auction pricing. Markets move; exact value depends on grade, variety and eye appeal. This guide is informational and not a formal appraisal.