As we approach the 250th anniversary of American independence, the allure of historical coins continues to captivate collectors and investors alike.
Among these numismatic treasures, Buffalo Nickels hold a special place, embodying a unique blend of artistry and American heritage. Minted from 1913 to 1938, these iconic coins have become highly sought after, with some rare specimens fetching astronomical prices at auction.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the top 10 rarest and most valuable Buffalo Nickels as of 2025, delving into their histories, unique features, and current market values.
Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a curious newcomer, this article will provide valuable insights into these miniature masterpieces of American coinage.
Understanding Buffalo Nickels
Before we dive into our top 10 list, let’s briefly recap what makes Buffalo Nickels so special:
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Design: Created by sculptor James Earle Fraser, the obverse features a composite portrait of three Native American chiefs, while the reverse showcases an American bison (often referred to as a buffalo).
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Minting Period: Produced from 1913 to 1938.
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Composition: 75% copper and 25% nickel.
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Historical Significance: These coins represent a pivotal era in American history, spanning from the final years of the “Old West” through World War I and the Roaring Twenties, and into the Great Depression.
Factors Affecting Buffalo Nickel Values
Several key factors contribute to the value of Buffalo Nickels:
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Rarity: The number of coins minted and surviving specimens.
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Condition: The state of preservation, often graded on a scale from Poor (P-1) to Perfect Mint State (MS-70).
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Date and Mint Mark: Certain years and minting locations are scarcer than others.
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Strike Quality: How well the design details were impressed on the coin.
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Historical Significance: Some coins gain value due to their place in numismatic history.
Now, let’s explore the top 10 rarest and most valuable Buffalo Nickels as of 2025.
1. 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo
Estimated Value: $150,000 (MS-65 grade)
The 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo is perhaps the most famous error coin in the series. This variety occurred when a Denver Mint employee over-polished a die, accidentally removing the buffalo’s front leg. The result was a coin that appears to depict a three-legged buffalo on the reverse.
Key Features:
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Missing front leg on the buffalo
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“D” mint mark (Denver)
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Visible hoof, despite the missing leg
This error wasn’t discovered until after the coins had entered circulation, making high-grade specimens particularly rare and valuable. In recent auctions, MS-65 examples have fetched around $150,000, with lower grades still commanding significant premiums over standard Buffalo Nickels.
2. 1916 Doubled Die Obverse
Estimated Value: $100,000 – $150,000 (MS-65 grade)
The 1916 Doubled Die Obverse is a rare and highly sought-after variety. This error occurred during the die-making process when the hub imparted its image onto the die twice, but slightly out of alignment. The result is a noticeable doubling of the date and lettering on the obverse of the coin.
Key Features:
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Visible doubling on the date and “LIBERTY”
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No mint mark (Philadelphia issue)
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Extremely rare in high grades
Due to its scarcity and the dramatic nature of the doubling, this variety commands premium prices, especially in uncirculated conditions.
3. 1918/7-D Overdate
Estimated Value: $350,750 (MS-65 grade)
The 1918/7-D Overdate is a fascinating example of mint efficiency gone awry. In late 1917, as the mint prepared for 1918 production, a 1917-dated die was re-engraved with the 1918 date. The result is a clear “8” over “7” in the date.
Key Features:
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Visible “8” over “7” in the date
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“D” mint mark (Denver)
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Rare in all grades, exceptionally so in Mint State
This overdate variety is highly prized by collectors, with a top-grade MS-65 example achieving a record price of $350,750 at auction.
4. 1926-S
Estimated Value: $322,000 (MS-65 grade)
While not an error coin, the 1926-S Buffalo Nickel is notable for its low mintage and extreme rarity in high grades. The San Francisco Mint produced just over 970,000 of these coins, many of which saw heavy circulation.
Key Features:
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“S” mint mark (San Francisco)
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Low mintage year
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Extremely rare in uncirculated condition
The scarcity of high-grade examples has driven prices to extraordinary levels, with one MS-65 specimen selling for $322,000 at auction.
5. 1913-S Type 2
Estimated Value: $27,500 (MS-65 grade)
The 1913-S Type 2 represents a pivotal moment in the Buffalo Nickel series. Midway through 1913, the design was modified to improve the coin’s striking quality and durability in circulation. The Type 2 coins feature a redesigned buffalo on a flatter plane and repositioned lettering.
Key Features:
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“S” mint mark (San Francisco)
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Redesigned buffalo on a raised mound
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First year of issue for the modified design
While the 1913-S Type 2 isn’t the rarest date in the series, its historical significance as the first of the redesigned Buffalo Nickels, combined with its low mintage, makes it highly desirable to collectors.
6. 1914-D
Estimated Value: $50,000 – $75,000 (MS-65 grade)
The 1914-D Buffalo Nickel is a key date in the series, known for its low mintage and scarcity in high grades. Only 3.9 million were minted, making it one of the lowest mintage issues from the Denver Mint.
Key Features:
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“D” mint mark (Denver)
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Low mintage year
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Rarely found in uncirculated condition
The combination of low mintage and poor strike quality has made high-grade examples of the 1914-D particularly valuable to collectors.
7. 1921-S
Estimated Value: $40,000 – $60,000 (MS-65 grade)
The 1921-S is another conditionally rare date in the Buffalo Nickel series. While its mintage of 1.5 million isn’t the lowest in the series, finding high-grade examples is exceptionally challenging.
Key Features:
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“S” mint mark (San Francisco)
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Often weakly struck
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Rare in Mint State grades
The scarcity of well-struck, high-grade examples has driven prices for MS-65 specimens to impressive levels.
8. 1924-S
Estimated Value: $35,000 – $50,000 (MS-65 grade)
Similar to the 1921-S, the 1924-S Buffalo Nickel is known for its conditional rarity. While over 1.4 million were minted, very few survive in high grades.
Key Features:
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“S” mint mark (San Francisco)
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Often poorly struck
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Extremely rare in Gem Uncirculated condition
The challenge of finding well-struck, high-grade examples has made the 1924-S a prized possession for serious Buffalo Nickel collectors.
9. 1920-D
Estimated Value: $30,000 – $45,000 (MS-65 grade)
The 1920-D Buffalo Nickel is another issue that’s particularly scarce in high grades. While its mintage of 9.4 million isn’t low for the series, well-preserved examples are surprisingly rare.
Key Features:
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“D” mint mark (Denver)
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Often weakly struck, especially on the buffalo’s horn
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Rare in Gem Uncirculated grades
The scarcity of sharply struck, high-grade examples has made the 1920-D a conditional rarity highly valued by collectors.
10. 1919-S
Estimated Value: $25,000 – $40,000 (MS-65 grade)
Rounding out our top 10 is the 1919-S Buffalo Nickel. With a mintage of just over 7.5 million, it’s not the rarest date in the series, but it’s notoriously difficult to find in high grades.
Key Features:
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“S” mint mark (San Francisco)
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Often poorly struck
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Very rare in Gem Uncirculated condition
Like many San Francisco Mint issues of this period, the 1919-S is known for its weak strikes, making well-defined, high-grade examples particularly valuable.
Rare Buffalo Nickels Coins Value : The Enduring Appeal of Buffalo Nickels
The Buffalo Nickel series, with its iconic design and rich history, continues to captivate collectors and investors alike. The ten rare examples we’ve explored represent the pinnacle of Buffalo Nickel collecting, each telling a unique story of American coinage history.
From the famous Three-Legged Buffalo to the scarce high-grade examples of key dates, these coins offer a tangible connection to the past and the potential for significant appreciation. As we move further into 2025, the allure of these rare Buffalo Nickels shows no signs of diminishing.
For those interested in exploring the world of Buffalo Nickel collecting, start by educating yourself about the series, its varieties, and the factors that influence value. Whether you’re a seasoned numismatist or a curious newcomer, the hunt for these elusive coins can be a rewarding journey through American history and artistry.
Remember, while finding a Buffalo Nickel worth thousands of dollars in your pocket change is extremely unlikely, the thrill of the hunt and the appreciation of these miniature masterpieces make collecting a rewarding hobby in itself. As with any investment, always do your due diligence, consult with reputable dealers, and consider professional grading for potentially valuable specimens.
As we approach the 250th anniversary of American independence, these small pieces of history serve as a reminder of our nation’s rich numismatic heritage. Whether you’re building a collection or simply appreciating the artistry and history, Buffalo Nickels continue to stand as enduring symbols of American craftsmanship and innovation.