Rare Buffalo Nickel Valued at $601,000 – Do You Have One in Your Pocket?

You must have often heard that the price of old coins increases with time, but have you ever thought that a coin worth ₹5 can be sold for crores? Yes, we are talking about the Buffalo Nickel – a coin made in America from 1913 to 1938, and today its auction price has reached $601,000 (approximately ₹5 crores).

This coin is not just a piece of metal, but a historical treasure that preserves the culture, art, and heritage of a bygone era. Let’s understand the whole story of this coin.

History of Buffalo Nickel: A unique journey

Buffalo Nickel was first issued by the US Mint (coin manufacturing unit) in 1913. Earlier, the type of nickel in circulation was the Liberty Head, which later changed to the Buffalo Nickel.

The James Earle Fraser artist was the creator of this coin. He was motivated to make this design based on the time he spent with the Native Americans.

There is an image of a Native American Chief on one side and a Bison on the other side of this coin. It stood out from the usual designs of the time because it was extraordinary and new.

Why was Buffalo Nickel discontinued?

Dark Dimes were discontinued in 1938, and America released the Jefferson Nickel from then on.
Its design was very detailed, which made it difficult to make. Also, its surface wore out quickly and was not suitable for long-term use.

Design Features: What is special about the Buffalo Nickel?

Obverse:

There is a picture of a Native American person here, which is a combination of three different chiefs — Two Moons, John Big Tree, and Iron Tail. This face picture was drawn by Fraser himself.

Reverse:

It shows an American Bison standing on an earthen mound. Its posture is aggressive, which is considered a symbol of strength and struggle.

Size and Material:

• Metal Composition: 75% Copper + 25% Nickel
• Weight: 5 grams
• Size: 21.2 mm
• Edge: Completely flat

Rarity of Buffalo Nickel: Which coins are the most valuable?

Some special years and varieties of Buffalo Nickels are extremely rare; their price skyrockets:

● 1913 Type I

This was the first version in which the buffalo was shown in a more realistic form. Its design is considered to be very spectacular, and this variety is popular among collectors.

● 1913 Type II

After Type I, its design was slightly changed. The buffalo was shown in a more stylish and easy minting way.

● 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo

This is one of the most famous minting errors. In this, one leg of the buffalo is missing, which makes this coin extremely rare.

● 1926-S

The minting number of this year’s coin was very low. A 1926-S coin found in good condition can be sold very high price today.

Pricing: Can Buffalo Nickel sell for up to ₹5 crore?

The price of a Buffalo Nickel depends on many things:

1. Rarity:

If the number of coins of a year is less or it has some feature (such as a minting error), then that coin can be extremely valuable.

2. Condition:

If the coin is in Uncirculated or Mint Condition, then its price increases manifold.

3. Demand:

Varieties that are in high demand tend to increase in value quickly.

Some record-breaking sales:

• 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo (MS-65 grade): $150,000 (₹1.25 crore)
• 1913 Type I Uncirculated: $100,000+
• 1926-S High Grade: $50,000+

But one particular variety was auctioned for $601,000 — the highest price ever for this coin.

How to identify a real Buffalo Nickel?

If you have an old U.S. coin, take a closer look at it:

• Front: Native American Chief
• Back: American Bison
• Year and mintmark: The coin may have the year and a D, S, or other mint mark at the bottom of the coin
• Edge: Plain edge

Note that many coins have the date rubbed off. In this condition, it can be difficult to identify the coin, but its value can be determined by showing it to an expert.

Tips for collectors

If you want to start a Buffalo Nickel collection, keep a few things in mind:

1. Gather information: Make a complete list of which years are rare.
2. Buy from the right place: Buy from certified dealers and get a certificate if possible.
3. Value the condition: Coins in good condition are the real treasure.
4. Collect a complete set: Some people collect coins from all the years 1913-1938. It’s an interesting and rewarding challenge.

Conclusion

This coin is more than money and shows the symbolism of America’s heritage. Its impressive design, important history, and rarity have helped it become among the world’s best-known and most sought-after coins. Every once in a while, an old Buffalo Nickel might get sold for a huge sum. Using the right knowledge and being careful with collection, this coin can be beneficial for you in several aspects.

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