The Buffalo nickel, also known as the Indian Head nickel, is one of the most iconic American coins ever minted. Produced from 1913 to 1938, it features a Native American profile on the obverse and a majestic American bison on the reverse. While millions were minted for circulation, certain rare dates, minting errors, and varieties have made some Buffalo nickels highly valuable—commanding thousands or even hundreds of thousands of dollars at auction.
For collectors, these coins are not just currency but pieces of American history. Below is a look at the top 10 most valuable Buffalo nickels sought after by collectors today.\
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1. 1913-S Type 2
When the design was modified in 1913 to prevent rapid wear of the denomination, the San Francisco mint produced a very limited number. With only 1.2 million struck, it is among the rarest and most valuable Buffalo nickels.
2. 1918/7-D Overdate
This famous error occurred when a 1918 die was struck over a 1917 die, creating a visible “7” beneath the “8.” It’s one of the most popular error nickels and can bring tens of thousands of dollars.
3. 1921-S
Low mintage (around 1.5 million) makes this coin particularly scarce. High-grade examples are extremely valuable due to poor strike quality typical of the San Francisco mint.
4. 1924-S
Although more than a million were minted, most circulated heavily, leaving few high-quality examples. In uncirculated grades, this coin can fetch a small fortune.
5. 1926-S
One of the lowest-mintage Buffalo nickels, with fewer than 1 million struck. In fine condition it’s collectible, but in mint state, it is exceptionally rare and valuable.
6. 1931-S
By the Great Depression, coin production slowed, and only 1.2 million of these were minted. Collectors prize them in better grades due to scarcity.
7. 1935 Doubled Die Reverse
This variety features a strong doubling of the inscriptions on the reverse side. Error coins like this are highly desirable and command premium prices.
8. 1913-D Type 2
Like the 1913-S, this Denver-minted Type 2 nickel is relatively scarce and often sought after by collectors building a complete Buffalo set.
9. 1927-S
While not the lowest mintage, poor strike quality means well-preserved examples are rare. Uncirculated coins are extremely valuable.
10. 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo
Perhaps the most famous Buffalo nickel error, this coin appears to show a bison with only three legs due to an over-polished die. Collectors love it, and high-grade examples bring tens of thousands at auction.
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Why Collectors Love Buffalo Nickels
Buffalo nickels represent a unique chapter in U.S. coinage—rugged, distinctly American, and full of artistry. Their combination of historical significance, beautiful design, and rarity makes them irresistible to collectors.
Even if you don’t stumble upon one of these top 10 treasures, searching through coins or inherited collections can still uncover valuable finds. After all, hidden gems sometimes appear in the most unexpected places.
FAQs: The Most Valuable Buffalo Nickels
Q1: What years were Buffalo nickels minted?
Buffalo nickels, also known as Indian Head nickels, were minted from 1913 to 1938.
Q2: Why are some Buffalo nickels so valuable?
Their value comes from factors like low mintage, minting errors, overdates, and condition. Scarcer issues or coins in high grades are especially prized.
Q3: What is the rarest Buffalo nickel?
The 1913-S Type 2 is considered the rarest regular-issue Buffalo nickel, while the 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo is the most famous error coin.
Q4: How much is a Buffalo nickel worth today?
Common Buffalo nickels in circulated condition may only be worth $1–$3. Rare dates, errors, or coins in uncirculated grades can range from hundreds to tens of thousands of dollars—or more.
Q5: How can I tell if my Buffalo nickel is valuable?
Look for:
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Key dates (like 1913-S Type 2, 1926-S, or 1931-S)
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Errors (like the 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo or 1918/7-D overdate)
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Strong details and minimal wear
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Mint marks (D for Denver, S for San Francisco) under the denomination on the reverse
Q6: Should I clean a Buffalo nickel before selling it?
No. Cleaning a coin can damage it and drastically reduce its value. Always keep coins in their original condition.