Isn’t it quite a thing if that coin is worth more than Rs. 80 lakhs, and once. It lay at the bottom of your grandfather’s wallet or perhaps in a box full of old coins? Sounds like something out of a film; however, in real life lives up to it; the American 1913-D Buffalo Nickel, better known as Indian Head Nickel, has performed exactly that miracle.
This coin rightly fits in the American history of most worthy and revered coins. The image as designed by James Earle Fraser incises in this coin the spirit of America’s earlier period, a sentimental image of a Native American warrior on one side and on the other, a bison-an emblem of power and freedom.
What Makes this Coin Special?
Special, therefore, was the Type 1 version of the 1913-D Buffalo Nickel. First made in 1913 at the Denver Mint, that mint produced 1,78,26,000 of them.
But then arises the question-Why so valuable, if so many were made?
Indeed, the reason for this coin’s auction price at $99,875, that is around ₹83 lakhs, is that this piece was a top-grade specimen, that is, exactly as if it were fresh out of the mint. Rarely can this coin be found in such a state today.
Technical Specifications
- Specifications
- Diameter: 21.20 mm
- Weight: 5.00 grams
- Metal composition: 75% copper; 25% nickel
- Edge: Plain
- Mint Mark: D (Denver Mint)
- Total output (1913): 1,78,26,000 coins
Design: An Artistic Revolution in Motion
Milestones have been achieved in coin propaganda because Fraser has achieved one in American coin history.
The face of a Native American man inspired the obverse side, drawing tribes from the three different chiefs. It is emotionally stirring indeed, symbolizing pride and struggle.
The bison stands majestically on a high mound; hence it is called “Type 1.” For that reason, it is representative of native culture and signifies boundless freedom.
Rarity and Worth
Seventeen million minted coins were, most of them, uncirculated with becoming worn from the circulation. The chances of finding a 1913-D Buffalo Nickel in pristine condition approach theoretical limits-much higher than what most coins today reflect.
Price just goes rocket high when such coin comes on the market with a good quality attraction for the collector or auction house. This very common phenomenon is true with one of such example now certified by PCGS, which has sold at auction for $99,875.
Why is this coin so exceptional?
This coin is not so historical; it is more the shadow of art and culture:
- Initial Copy of History: The first Buffalo Nickel ever minted was in 1913.
- Unique feature of the Denver Mint: Just under the “FIVE CENTS” mark is a small ‘D’ that adds to its special feature.
- Beauty of Design: Artist Fraser has a vision for less ordinary engraving, which indeed makes it different from any other coin.
- Value-appreciating: Pro-value because time only tends to appreciate such coins.
- Denver Mint: Also produced the very first ‘D’ edition of 1913 and hence that would give its signature specialty of having such ‘D’ mark. Just knowing the ‘D’ might lead one to think it was made in Denver Mint.
True that there are coins with bumpy surfaces and without “D”; however, they are not of the same value as well as demand.
Where might such coins be found?
Treasure hunting for one of those rare specimens would lead you to:
- Local antique coin shop
State-certified dealers such as:
- Arkansas Coin Dealers
- Alaska Coin Dealers
- Arizona Coin Dealers
- Online auction platforms like Heritage Auctions Stack’s Bowers, etc.
And last, if you stumble on having such a coin, don’t even think for a second about cleaning or washing it with any chemical. Take it immediately to a professional coin-grading expert.
More than a coin, a legacy.
It is not just a coin; 1913-D Buffalo Nickel is used for the American history, cultural heritage, and artistry-the statistics behind it are immeasurable.
This can reveal that a 5-cent coin in your pocket could actually prove itself to be one of the most priceless of treasures.
Conclusion:
Crazy Million Coin You Might Just Have in Your Pocket
Well, now you know a little about the 1913-D Buffalo Nickel that magically appears and could change a few lives, so, in fact, next time, when you open your old coins box or get a coin out of a piggy bank, have a close glance at it.
Q1. Why is the 1913-D Buffalo Nickel so valuable?
A. Although over 17 million were minted, very few survived in perfect condition.
Collectors prize this coin for its stunning design, historic value, and rarity.
A top-grade version even sold for nearly $100,000 at auction.
Q2. How can I tell if I have a 1913-D Buffalo Nickel?
A. Look at the back of the coin under the words “FIVE CENTS” for a small “D” mintmark.
That indicates it was struck in Denver in 1913.
If it’s well-preserved, it could be worth far more than five cents.
Q3. What does “Type 1” mean in the Buffalo Nickel series?
A. Type 1 refers to the first design, showing a bison standing on a raised mound.
It was only used in early 1913 before being modified.
Collectors love this version for its raw, artistic charm.
Q4. Can I still find a valuable Buffalo Nickel in circulation?
A. It’s rare, but not impossible—some coins end up in jars or old collections.
Most valuable ones are found in estate sales or inherited stashes.
Always check your old coins carefully—you might get lucky.
Q5. What should I do if I think I found a valuable Buffalo Nickel?
A. Don’t clean or tamper with it—that can lower its value significantly.
Instead, take it to a certified coin dealer or grading service.
They can tell you its authenticity, condition, and potential market value.
