Buffalo Nickels: Key Dates & How to Spot a Rare One

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Buffalo Nickels (also called Indian Head Nickels) rank among the most iconic and collectible U.S. coins. Designed by James Earle Fraser, these five-cent pieces feature a Native American portrait on the obverse and an American bison on the reverse, capturing the rugged spirit of the early 20th century. However, not all Buffalo Nickels are created equal. Some dates and mintmarks stand out for their scarcity or unique errors, making them highly sought after by collectors. Below, we’ll explore key date Buffalo Nickels, show you how to identify rare buffalo nickels, and even provide a quick buffalo nickel value chart to help you gauge potential finds.

1) A Brief History of the Buffalo Nickel

1. Inception
   • First minted in 1913, the Buffalo Nickel replaced the Liberty Head (V) Nickel.
   • Fraser’s design was meant to celebrate America’s frontier heritage, depicting a composite Native American profile on the obverse and a bison (often referred to as a “buffalo”) on the reverse.
2. Production Years
   • Struck from 1913 to 1938, with a short gap in 1932–1933 for some mint locations.
   • Coins were minted at Philadelphia (no mint mark), Denver (D), and San Francisco (S).
3. The Design Challenges
   • Raised features like the date and the buffalo’s horn were prone to rapid wear.
   • Many Buffalo Nickels in circulation lost their date entirely over time, spawning a market for “dateless” nickels—which are usually not valuable unless they have certain rare traits.
4. Why Collect
   • With a short production span, the series appeals to collectors aiming for a complete date-and-mint set.
   • Error coins, weak strikes, and certain design tweaks offer intriguing variety for numismatists.

2) Key Date Buffalo Nickels to Know

Several Buffalo Nickels stand out for their rarity, mintage anomalies, or unique features. Below are some major key date Buffalo Nickels that command premium prices.

2.1 1913-S Type 2

• Why It’s Key: In 1913, Buffalo Nickels had two reverse types. Type 1 displayed the bison on a raised mound, while Type 2 placed the bison on a recessed line.
• Rarity Factor: The 1913-S Type 2 has a low mintage (1.2 million), making higher-grade examples quite scarce.
• Approximate Value: Fine grades can fetch $250–$400+, while mint-state coins can surpass $2,000+ depending on luster and strike quality.

2.2 1914/1914-D

• Why It’s Key: Both Philadelphia and Denver Mints produced moderate amounts in 1914. However, well-preserved coins remain elusive, especially the 1914-D with around 3.9 million minted.
• Approximate Value: Fine to Very Fine condition ranges from $40–$100+, with mint-state examples reaching the hundreds or even thousands.

2.3 1918/7-D Overdate

• Why It’s Key: An overdate error where the digit “7” in the date was not fully removed, leaving part of it visible under the “8.”
• Rarity Factor: Overdates are popular among error collectors, driving values much higher than normal 1918-D nickels.
• Approximate Value: Even a well-worn example can run $1,000 or more. Higher grades in this error are extremely scarce and can push well into the five figures.

2.4 1921-S

• Why It’s Key: Production dipped post-World War I, and the 1921-S saw just over 1.5 million minted. Many circulated heavily, leaving relatively few higher-grade survivors.
• Approximate Value: Circulated coins can range $50–$150; mint-state examples can easily climb into the thousands.

2.5 1926-S

• Why It’s Key: With a mintage of around 970,000, it’s one of the lowest in the series. High-grade specimens are especially rare and sought after.
• Approximate Value: A Fine coin might sell for $100–$200+, while higher-grade pieces (AU/MS) can go for $1,000–$5,000 or more.

2.6 1937-D “3-Legged”

• Why It’s Key: A minting error caused the front right leg of the buffalo to disappear, leaving only three legs visible.
• Rarity Factor: Extremely popular error variety; a must-have for many Buffalo Nickel enthusiasts.
• Approximate Value: A well-circulated piece typically sells for $500–$1,000+, with nicer AU/MS coins reaching several thousand dollars.

3) How to Spot a Rare One: Tips for Identification

1. Date and Mint Mark Location
   • The date is on the obverse (front) beneath the Indian’s chin.
   • Mint marks (D or S) appear on the reverse, to the left of the word “FIVE CENTS.” If there’s no mark, it’s a Philadelphia issue.
2. Look for Overdates and Varieties
   • Check for subtle anomalies in the date. The 1918/7-D overdate is the most famous, but other small die variations exist.
   • Use a 10x loupe or higher magnification to confirm.
3. Check the Reverse Details
   • The shape of the buffalo’s legs, tail, and the mound line can indicate rare errors like the 1937-D 3-legged variety.
   • “Type 1” vs. “Type 2” in 1913 hinges on whether the buffalo stands on a raised mound or a recessed line.
4. Assess Condition
   • Full horn detail on the buffalo’s head can be a quick indicator of a better-grade coin.
   • Sharpness in the Indian’s braid and cheekbone also suggests minimal wear.
5. Use Reference Guides or Certification
   • Tools like the PCGS Photograde app or official references can guide you on approximate grades.
   • For high-value or questionable coins, professional grading can confirm authenticity and condition.

4) Buffalo Nickel Value Chart (Quick Reference)

(Values are approximations for typical market conditions. Rare coin values can fluctuate based on demand, condition, and grading service opinions.)

5) Practical Collecting Tips

1. Avoid “Dateless” Nickels
   • Many Buffalo Nickels have worn dates, making it impossible to confirm if it’s a key year. Chemical date restoration can reveal dates but typically reduces collector value.
2. Hunt for Bargains
   • Local coin shops, estate sales, or online auctions sometimes yield overlooked Buffalo Nickels. Knowledge of key dates and errors can help you snag deals.
3. Inspect with Proper Tools
   • A magnifying glass or loupe (10x or higher) is essential for spotting subtle overdates or verifying a missing leg.
4. Focus on Eye Appeal
   • While year and mint mark dictate baseline value, coins with attractive toning or fewer marks often command higher premiums.
5. Buy Certified for Higher-Value Pieces
   • If you’re investing in rarities like the 1918/7-D or a high-grade 1926-S, certification from PCGS or NGC provides authenticity and grade assurance.

Conclusion

Buffalo Nickels remain a beloved slice of American coinage, reflecting both historical artistry and the quirks of early 20th-century minting. From the elusive 1918/7-D overdate to the iconic 1937-D 3-legged error, rare buffalo nickels can be worth hundreds—or even thousands—of dollars. By referencing a buffalo nickel value chart and familiarizing yourself with key date buffalo nickels, you’ll be better equipped to spot hidden gems.

Key Takeaways:

• Keep an eye out for legibility of the date and mint mark—worn coins lose significant identification clues.
• Double-check for famous errors like the 1918/7-D and 1937-D 3-legged variety.
• Condition matters: clear details on the buffalo’s horn or the Indian’s braid can significantly enhance a coin’s value.
• Seek professional grading for high-stakes purchases or potential rarities to confirm authenticity and maximize resale potential.

Armed with these insights, you’re ready to explore coin shows, local shops, or even your own loose change with a sharper eye for the truly special Buffalo Nickels that stand above the rest!