Collecting coins is a journey into history, art, and sometimes, unexpected value. Among the myriad of coins, the Buffalo Nickel, minted between 1913 and 1938, stands out not only for its iconic design but also for certain errors that have transformed ordinary nickels into coveted collectibles.
One such error is the 1936 D 3½-Legged Buffalo Nickel, which has fetched prices as high as $20,700 at auction. Let’s delve into this intriguing coin and explore other valuable nickel errors that collectors should be on the lookout for.
The 1936 D 3½-Legged Buffalo Nickel: A $20,700 Treasure
In 1936, at the Denver Mint, an overzealous polishing of the coin dies led to the removal of part of the buffalo’s front leg on the reverse side of the nickel.
This resulted in the famous “3½-legged” appearance, a distinctive error that has captivated collectors. The rarity and uniqueness of this mistake have significantly increased the coin’s value.
In fact, a specimen in mint state condition was auctioned for $20,700, highlighting the premium that collectors are willing to pay for such anomalies.
Other Valuable Nickel Errors to Watch For
While the 1936 D 3½-Legged Buffalo Nickel is a standout, several other nickel errors have garnered attention and high values in the numismatic community:
- 1913 Liberty Head V Nickel: Only five known specimens exist, making it one of the rarest U.S. coins. One sold for $3.7 million at auction.
- 1937-D 3-Legged Buffalo Nickel: Due to a die polishing error, the buffalo appears to have only three legs. A high-grade example fetched $99,875 in 2021.
- 1918/7-D Buffalo Nickel (Overdate Error): This coin features a 1918 date stamped over 1917, creating a visible overdate. Depending on condition, these can be worth up to $650,000.
- 1935 Doubled Die Reverse Buffalo Nickel: A doubling error on the reverse side, especially noticeable on the words “FIVE CENTS,” has made this coin highly sought after, with auction prices reaching $104,650.
- 1964 SMS Jefferson Nickel: Special Mint Set nickels from 1964 are rare, with fewer than two dozen known. One sold for $32,900 due to its unique characteristics and limited availability.
- 1926-S Buffalo Nickel: Known for its low mintage and poor strike quality, high-grade examples are scarce. One such coin sold for $322,000 at auction.
- 1942-P Jefferson Nickel (Overdate Error): Some 1942 nickels exhibit an overdate error, where the date appears as “1942/1.” Uncirculated examples can fetch up to $600.
Identifying and Valuing Error Nickels
For collectors and enthusiasts aiming to identify and possibly own these valuable nickels, here are key steps:
- Detailed Inspection: Use a magnifying glass to examine the coin’s details, especially focusing on areas prone to errors like dates, mint marks, and design elements.
- Consult Reputable Resources: Reference guides and databases from authoritative numismatic organizations can provide insights into known errors and their characteristics.
- Professional Grading: Submitting coins to professional grading services can authenticate and grade the coin, significantly impacting its market value.
| Coin | Description | Auction Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1936 D 3½-Legged Buffalo Nickel | Partial leg due to die polishing error | $20,700 |
| 1913 Liberty Head V Nickel | One of five known; extremely rare | $3.7 million |
| 1937-D 3-Legged Buffalo Nickel | Missing front leg on buffalo | $99,875 |
| 1918/7-D Buffalo Nickel (Overdate Error) | 1918 date over 1917 | Up to $650,000 |
| 1935 Doubled Die Reverse Buffalo Nickel | Doubling on reverse inscriptions | $104,650 |
| 1964 SMS Jefferson Nickel | Special Mint Set issue; very limited availability | $32,900 |
| 1926-S Buffalo Nickel | Low mintage with poor strike quality | $322,000 |
| 1942-P Jefferson Nickel (Overdate Error) | Date appears as “1942/1” | $600 |
The world of coin collecting is filled with hidden treasures, especially when it comes to error coins like the 1936 D 3½-Legged Buffalo Nickel.
These anomalies not only offer a glimpse into the minting process but also present lucrative opportunities for collectors. Whether you’re a seasoned numismatist or a curious beginner, keeping an eye out for these rare errors can be both rewarding and profitable.
FAQs
What causes errors like the 3½-legged buffalo on the 1936 D nickel?
Such errors typically result from over-polishing of the coin dies at the mint. In this case, excessive polishing removed part of the buffalo’s front leg, leading to the 3½-legged appearance.
How can I determine the value of my Buffalo Nickel?
The value depends on factors like rarity, demand, and condition. Consulting a professional grading service or a reputable coin dealer can provide an accurate assessment.
Are all error coins valuable?
Not necessarily. The value of an error coin depends on the type of error, its visibility, rarity, and the coin’s overall condition. Some minor errors might not significantly
I have a 1936 Indian Head or Buffalo Head nickel and very nice for a collection looking to sell it but I don’t want what they say it’s worth cuz I think that’s just too much and I like somebody else to enjoy as much as me and my family has my name is Mark you can reach me 315-243-5782 please only seriously inquiries only thank you