Anyone hearing about a Buffalo nickel being worth $601,000 should be skeptical. The highest confirmed auction prices for Buffalo nickels (a.k.a. Indian Head nickels) remain in the high five-figure to low six-figure range, based on rare errors, overdates, or extremely high Mint State grades.
There’s no public record of a Buffalo nickel ever fetching $601,000. Rumors spread fast, but real value depends on rarity and condition, not hype.
Top Valuable Buffalo Nickels: Dates, Errors & Price Range
Buffalo nickels were produced from 1913 to 1938. Below are the most sought-after varieties and their market-proven top prices:
| Variety / Date | Reason for Value | Highest Proven Price (~) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1918/7-D Overdate | 1917 date struck over 1918 (overdate) | $350,000-plus | Extremely rare in gem condition |
| 1916 Doubled Die Obverse | Doubling in digits and LIBERTY | $280,000-plus | Even mid-grades bring thousands |
| 1937-D “Three-Legged” | Front leg of buffalo missing due to over-polishing | $100,000-ish | Authentication crucial; numerous counterfeits |
| 1926-S (Mint State) | Scarcity and sharp strike in MS | High five to six figures | Premium in uncirculated grades |
These are documented high watermarks in the market—nothing near $601K has been verified.
How to Recognize and Evaluate Potential Treasure in Your Collection
- Check the Date & Mintmark – The date (e.g. “1918”) is on the obverse, and the mintmark (“D” or “S”) appears on the reverse below “FIVE CENTS.”
- Key Features to Spot
- 1918/7-D: Look for remnants of a “7” under the “8.”
- 1916 Doubled Die: Notice clear doubling on the date and the word LIBERTY.
- 1937-D Three-Legged: The buffalo’s front right leg is missing entirely.
- Assess Condition – Coins graded in Mint State (MS) condition are exponentially more valuable than worn examples. Even a small grade bump can raise value dramatically.
- Authentication is Crucial – If you suspect something rare, do not clean the coin. Seek evaluation from a major grading service before doing anything else.
Are These Rare Buffalo Nickels Still in Circulation?
It’s extremely unlikely to find a six-figure Buffalo nickel in everyday change, but stray specimens can still appear in inherited albums, old coin jars, or unsearched change.
The key is great condition plus rarity—which is almost always already slabbed and traded through auction channels. So while the “in circulation” idea is exciting, expect to uncover only modest versions unless you’re very lucky.
Buffalo nickels can indeed be worth serious money—especially rare types like the 1918/7-D, 1916 doubled die, 1937-D three-legged, and 1926-S in top condition. But the sensational figure of $601,000 lacks any verified backing.
If you think you’ve found something special, inspect the date, mintmark, and condition, then get it authenticated and graded promptly. That’s how real numismatic value, not speculation, is unlocked.
FAQs
Is the $601,000 Buffalo nickel really real?
No. There’s no confirmed sale supporting that amount. Real top prices are high-five to low-six figures—but below $601K.
Which Buffalo nickel varieties are most valuable?
Top contenders include the 1918/7-D overdate, 1916 doubled die obverse, 1937-D three-legged, and 1926-S in Mint State.
Can I find a valuable Buffalo nickel in my change?
It’s possible but highly unlikely. Most high-value examples are in collections, graded, and traded via major auction houses.