Top 9 Rarest & Most Valuable Buffalo Nickels – The Buffalo Nickel, officially known as the Indian Head Nickel, is one of the most iconic coins in American numismatics. Designed by James Earle Fraser and minted from 1913 to 1938, these nickels feature a Native American profile on the obverse and an American bison (commonly referred to as a buffalo) on the reverse.
While many Buffalo Nickels are worth only their face value or slightly more due to their copper-nickel composition, certain rare varieties, minting errors, and high-grade specimens have become treasures coveted by collectors worldwide.
In this article, we’ll explore the top 9 rarest and most valuable Buffalo Nickels—and uncover what makes them so special.
1. 1913-S Type 2 Buffalo Nickel
The 1913-S Type 2 Buffalo Nickel is one of the rarest and most sought-after issues in the series. The Type 2 design features a raised mound beneath the bison, which was later modified to a flat base for better durability. With a mintage of just over 1.2 million coins, high-grade examples are extremely rare.
Also read – Top 8 Lincoln Memorial Pennies Worth Big Money
A gem-quality specimen graded MS-65 sold for $120,000 in 2023. Its scarcity and superior preservation contribute to its lofty price tag.
2. 1916 Doubled Die Obverse Buffalo Nickel
The 1916 Doubled Die Obverse Buffalo Nickel exhibits dramatic doubling on the obverse side, particularly noticeable in “LIBERTY” and the date. This error is extremely rare and highly prized by collectors.
An example graded MS-64 sold for $80,000 in 2022. Its unmistakable flaw makes it a must-have for any serious collector.
3. 1921-S Buffalo Nickel
The 1921-S Buffalo Nickel, with a mintage of just over 1.5 million coins, is one of the scarcest regular-issue Buffalo Nickels. High-grade examples are particularly rare, as many were heavily circulated or melted down.
A gem-quality specimen graded MS-66 sold for $75,000 in 2023. Its low mintage and iconic design ensure its desirability.
4. 1918/7-D Overdate Buffalo Nickel
The 1918/7-D Overdate Buffalo Nickel is another fascinating variety where traces of the original date “1917” remain visible beneath the corrected “1918.” This error occurred when dies were reused incorrectly.
An MS-65 example fetched $60,000 at auction. Its intriguing backstory captivates collectors.
5. 1935 Doubled Die Reverse Buffalo Nickel
The 1935 Doubled Die Reverse Buffalo Nickel features pronounced doubling on the reverse side, particularly noticeable in the bison and surrounding details. These coins are exceedingly rare and highly valued by collectors.
An example graded MS-65 sold for $50,000 in 2023. Its precision doubling enhances its appeal.
6. 1926-S Buffalo Nickel
The 1926-S Buffalo Nickel, with a mintage of just over 970,000 coins, is one of the lowest-mintage issues in the series. High-grade examples are particularly rare, as many were melted down during economic downturns.
A gem-quality specimen graded MS-65 sold for $45,000 in 2023. Its scarcity and excellent condition make it highly desirable.
7. 1914-D Buffalo Nickel
The 1914-D Buffalo Nickel, with a mintage of just over 3.9 million coins, is another key date in the series. High-grade examples are particularly rare, as many were heavily circulated or melted down.
An MS-66 example brought $40,000 at auction. Its sharp strike and luster captivate collectors.
8. 1924-S Buffalo Nickel
The 1924-S Buffalo Nickel, with a mintage of just over 1.4 million coins, is another low-mintage issue. High-grade examples are particularly scarce, as many were melted down or heavily circulated.
An MS-65 example fetched $35,000 at auction. Its bold design draws attention.
9. 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel
The 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel is one of the most famous minting errors in U.S. history. Due to excessive polishing of the die, part of the bison’s front leg was erased, giving the illusion that it has only three legs.
An example graded MS-65 sold for $30,000 in 2022. Its striking appearance ensures its popularity among enthusiasts.
Also read – Top 9 Vintage Coins Every American Collector Needs
Could You Have a Fortune in Your Pocket?
While finding one of these rare Buffalo Nickels in everyday circulation is unlikely, it’s not impossible. Savvy collectors regularly search through rolls of coins, estate sales, and online marketplaces for hidden gems. If you discover a nickel with unusual markings, misalignment, or other peculiarities, consider having it appraised—it might just be worth a fortune!
