The Buffalo Nickel, also known as the Indian Head Nickel, was minted in the United States from 1913 to 1938. At first glance, it may look like just another old coin.
But some Buffalo Nickels with minting errors are worth far more than their face value of 5 cents. In fact, collectors are willing to pay thousands of dollars for rare mistakes.
In this article, we’ll look at the top 5 Buffalo Nickel errors that are highly valuable, how to identify them, and why coin collectors treasure them so much.
Why Are Error Buffalo Nickels Valuable?
When a coin is made incorrectly at the mint, it is called a minting error. These mistakes are rare and unique, making them special for collectors. Since only a few of these error coins exist, their value increases with demand.
Some Buffalo Nickels with unusual printing, doubling, or design flaws can sell for hundreds or even thousands of dollars at auctions.
5 Rare Buffalo Nickel Errors Worth Collecting
Here are the most valuable Buffalo Nickel errors and how much they can be worth today:
| Error Type | Year(s) Found | Description | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3-Legged Buffalo Nickel | 1937-D | The buffalo on the reverse looks like it has only three legs because of die polishing. | $500 – $7,000+ |
| Two-Feather Buffalo Nickel | 1916–1935 | The Native American portrait shows only two feathers instead of three due to over-polishing. | $200 – $3,000+ |
| Doubled Die Obverse (DDO) | 1916 & others | Doubling can be seen on the date, lettering, or profile. | $1,000 – $10,000+ |
| Overdate Error | 1918/7-D | The “7” is visible under the “8” in the date. | $5,000 – $20,000+ |
| Off-Center Strike | Various years | The design is not centered properly, leaving blank space. | $100 – $2,000+ |
Error Nickel Details
1. The Famous 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo
This is the most famous Buffalo Nickel error. The buffalo looks like it only has three legs because the mint worker accidentally polished away one leg. Well-preserved examples can sell for thousands.
2. The Two-Feather Error
Normally, the Native American portrait has three feathers in the headdress. Some coins show only two feathers, making them a collectible mistake.
3. Doubled Die Nickels
In some coins, the date and lettering appear doubled, especially in 1916 issues. These coins are rare and can bring in huge value at auctions.
4. 1918/7-D Overdate
One of the most valuable errors, this coin shows a “7” underneath the “8” in the date. Very few exist, making it highly prized by collectors.
5. Off-Center Strikes
If a coin is not pressed properly in the machine, the design may shift to one side. The more off-center the strike, the higher the value—especially if the date is still visible.
How to Spot Valuable Buffalo Nickel Errors
- Check the buffalo’s legs – If one is missing, you may have the rare 1937-D coin.
- Look at the feathers – If only two are visible, it could be a two-feather error.
- Examine the date closely – Overdates and doubled dies are usually seen in the numbers.
- Check coin alignment – Off-center strikes stand out easily.
- Condition matters – The better the coin’s condition, the higher its value.
Buffalo Nickels may only be 5-cent coins, but certain rare errors can be worth thousands of dollars. From the famous 3-Legged Buffalo to the valuable 1918/7-D Overdate, these mistakes are treasures for collectors.
If you come across a Buffalo Nickel in your change or collection, take a closer look—you might be holding a small piece of history worth big money.
FAQs
Look closely at Buffalo Nickels from 1916, 1918, 1935, and 1937, as these years are known for valuable errors.
No, most Buffalo Nickels are worth only a few dollars. Only error coins or rare dates bring in high value.
You can sell them at coin shops, online auctions, or coin shows, where collectors are actively searching for them.