Hidden Treasures: 5 Mistakes on Buffalo Nickels Worth Thousands

Buffalo Nickels Worth Thousands: Buffalo nickels are a popular and valuable series of U.S. coins. Collectors often search for rare mistakes or errors that can make these coins worth thousands of dollars. These errors occur during the minting process, leading to unique and rare variations that become highly prized in the coin-collecting world.

This article will explore some of the most valuable mistakes found on Buffalo nickels. We will look at five famous errors that make these coins incredibly valuable to collectors, as well as how to identify and verify such errors to ensure authenticity.

CategoryValue
Name of the OrganizationU.S. Mint
Conducting BodyU.S. Treasury
Examination NameBuffalo Nickel Errors
Official Websitewww.usmint.gov
ModeMinting Errors
Important Dates1913-1938 (Minting)

1. 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel

The 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel is one of the most famous error coins. Due to a minting mistake, the buffalo on the reverse side appears to have only three legs instead of four. This happened when a mint worker over-polished the die, erasing part of the buffalo’s front leg. This rare error can fetch thousands of dollars, depending on the condition of the coin.

2. 1918/7-D Overdate Error

Another valuable error is the 1918/7-D Overdate Buffalo Nickel. This coin shows the date “1918” struck over the original “1917,” creating a distinct double-date effect. This type of mistake occurred when dies from 1917 were repurposed for minting in 1918. Collectors highly value this coin due to its rarity and the historical significance of the overdate error.

3. 1916 Doubled Die Obverse

The 1916 Doubled Die Obverse error is another highly sought-after Buffalo nickel. This error occurs when the die strikes the coin twice, creating a noticeable doubling effect on the obverse (front) side, particularly on the date and the words “Liberty.” Coins with this error can command premium prices, especially if the doubling is clear and sharp.

4. 1935 Doubled Die Reverse

In 1935, some Buffalo nickels were minted with a doubled die reverse, meaning that the back of the coin was struck twice, causing doubling on certain features. Collectors look for doubling in areas like the buffalo’s legs or the words “United States of America” and “Five Cents.” This error can add significant value to an otherwise ordinary 1935 nickel.

5. 1914/3 Overdate Error

The 1914/3 Overdate Error is another overstrike coin similar to the 1918/7-D overdate. In this case, a die from 1913 was used again in 1914, causing a visible “3” beneath the “4” in the date. This rare and unique error adds value to the coin, making it a prized item for serious collectors.

How to Identify and Verify Buffalo Nickel Errors

To identify Buffalo nickel errors, collectors need a keen eye and sometimes magnification tools. Look for unusual features like missing or doubled legs, numbers, or letters. It’s also important to verify the authenticity of these error coins through professional coin grading services, which can confirm if a Buffalo nickel contains a legitimate error and assign it a grade that affects its value.

Important Links

NameLink
U.S. Mint Official Pagewww.usmint.gov
Coin Grading Servicewww.pcgs.com
Buffalo Nickel Infowww.ngccoin.com

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FAQs

  1. How much is a 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel worth?
    It can range from a few hundred to thousands of dollars, depending on the condition.
  2. What causes a double die error?
    A doubled die error occurs when a die strikes a coin twice, causing a doubling effect on the design.
  3. Are overdate errors common in Buffalo nickels?
    No, overdate errors like the 1918/7-D are very rare and highly valuable.
  4. How can I verify a Buffalo nickel error?
    You can have it authenticated by professional coin grading services like PCGS or NGC.
  5. Which Buffalo nickel error is the most valuable?
    The 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel and 1918/7-D Overdate are among the most valuable errors.

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