The Buffalo Nickel, minted from 1913 to 1938, remains one of the most popular and sought-after coins among collectors. Although most Buffalo Nickels are valuable due to their historical significance, certain errors make them worth thousands of dollars.
Minting mistakes such as doubled dies, misaligned strikes, and over-polished dies can add considerable value to these already cherished coins. In this article, we’ll highlight 5 Buffalo Nickel errors that are worth thousands.
1. The 1913-S Type 2 Buffalo Nickel with Double Die Obverse
The 1913-S Type 2 Buffalo Nickel with a double die obverse is one of the most famous error coins. This error occurs when the die used to mint the coin is struck multiple times, creating a doubled design on the coin.
The doubling is especially noticeable in the word “LIBERTY” and the date “1913”.
Why It’s Valuable:
- Double Die Error: The double die obverse gives the coin a unique appearance, making it highly desirable for collectors.
- Scarcity: Only a limited number of these coins were affected by the error, adding to their rarity.
Approximate Value:
Up to $100,000 in excellent condition, with higher prices for coins in mint state.
2. The 1937-D Buffalo Nickel with 3-Legged Bison Error
The 1937-D Buffalo Nickel with the 3-legged bison error is one of the most famous and valuable errors. Due to a die damage, the buffalo on the reverse side of the coin appears to have only three legs instead of four.
This iconic error has made the coin incredibly sought after by collectors.
Why It’s Valuable:
- 3-Legged Bison Error: This distinct and obvious error makes the coin one of the most collectible Buffalo Nickels.
- High Demand: This error coin continues to attract high bids in auctions, making it a highly valuable find.
Approximate Value:
Up to $500,000, depending on the condition and level of the error’s visibility.
3. The 1918/7-D Overdate Buffalo Nickel
The 1918/7-D overdate error is one of the more rare and valuable minting mistakes in the Buffalo Nickel series. The “7” from the previous year was struck over the “8” in the 1918 date, making this coin incredibly rare. Collectors often refer to this coin as one of the most sought-after in the series.
Why It’s Valuable:
- Overdate Error: The overstruck date makes it stand out from regular 1918 coins.
- Rarity: This error is extremely rare, with only a small number of overstruck coins remaining.
Approximate Value:
Up to $250,000, with the price depending on the grade and overall condition.
4. The 1926 Buffalo Nickel with Misaligned Die Error
A misaligned die error occurs when the die is improperly aligned with the planchet, resulting in part of the design being cut off or misplaced.
The 1926 Buffalo Nickel with misaligned die error is a highly sought-after coin, with noticeable misalignment on both the obverse and reverse sides of the coin.
Why It’s Valuable:
- Misaligned Die Error: The misalignment makes this coin visually unique and highly collectible.
- Condition: Coins in excellent condition with noticeable misalignment tend to fetch much higher prices.
Approximate Value:
Up to $10,000 or more for coins in good condition.
5. The 1921 Buffalo Nickel with Over-Polished Die Error
The 1921 Buffalo Nickel with an over-polished die error is another valuable coin. The over-polishing of the die causes parts of the design, especially on the buffalo, to appear weak or nearly worn away.
The result is a faded and partially erased image of the buffalo, making this coin highly collectible.
Why It’s Valuable:
- Over-Polished Die Error: The weak and faded design makes this error coin unique and sought after by collectors.
- Historical Significance: The 1921 year marks the last year of the Buffalo Nickel series before the design was replaced by the Jefferson Nickel.
Approximate Value:
Up to $50,000, depending on the degree of the error and overall coin condition.
5 Most Valuable Buffalo Nickel Errors
| Coin | Error Type | Approximate Value |
|---|---|---|
| 1913-S Type 2 Double Die Obverse | Double die obverse | Up to $100,000 |
| 1937-D 3-Legged Bison | 3-legged bison error | Up to $500,000 |
| 1918/7-D Overdate | Overdate error | Up to $250,000 |
| 1926 Misaligned Die Error | Misaligned die | Up to $10,000 |
| 1921 Over-Polished Die Error | Over-polished die | Up to $50,000 |
Conclusion
The Buffalo Nickel continues to be one of the most revered coins among collectors, with certain minting errors making them even more valuable. From the 3-legged bison to the double die obverse, the rarity of these error coins drives up their value significantly.