A Coin Collecting Dust
Imagine finding a Buffalo Nickel in an old piggy bank that’s worth thousands of dollars. Minted from 1913 to 1938, these coins show a Native American on the front and a buffalo on the back. Most are worth just a few cents, but a rare version, like the 1913-D Type I or one with a unique error, could fetch big money. After sitting in a piggy bank for 30 years, one of these coins might still be waiting to be discovered in your home.
Why This Nickel Is So Special
The Buffalo Nickel is a favorite among collectors because of its unique design and history. The 1913-D Type I, minted in Denver, is rare due to its low production of about 5.3 million coins and a distinct design with the buffalo on a raised mound. Even rarer are error coins, like the 1937-D “three-legged” nickel, where a buffalo leg was polished off the die by mistake. One of these sold for $99,000 in 2023. Well-preserved or error nickels can be worth hundreds or thousands, far more than their 5-cent face value.
Could It Be in Your Piggy Bank?
The amazing thing is, these nickels could still be hiding in old piggy banks, drawers, or coin jars. Since they were common in circulation decades ago, some were saved without knowing their value. Coin experts say rare Buffalo Nickels often turn up in forgotten collections or family heirlooms. With millions minted, there’s a chance one is stashed away in your home. Check the table below for tips on spotting a valuable Buffalo Nickel.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Year | Look for “1913” to “1938” on the front of the nickel. |
| Mint Mark | Check for a “D” (Denver) or “S” (San Francisco) below the buffalo. |
| Design | Native American on the front, buffalo on the back (check for three legs). |
| Errors | Look for a missing leg or doubled design (use a magnifying glass). |
| Condition | Coins with clear details and little wear are worth more. |
Tips for Finding a Rare Nickel
- Check old piggy banks, coin jars, or family collections for nickels from 1913 to 1938.
- Look for the “D” or “S” mint mark and errors like a three-legged buffalo.
- Use a magnifying glass to spot doubled designs or missing features.
- Don’t clean coins—it can lower their value.
- Take possible rare nickels to a professional coin dealer for appraisal.
The Thrill of Discovery
The idea of a Buffalo Nickel worth thousands sitting in a dusty piggy bank excites collectors and everyday folks alike. Stories of rare coins found in unexpected places, like attics or thrift stores, keep the hunt alive. Even if you don’t find the 1937-D three-legged nickel, other Buffalo Nickels, like the 1918/7-D overdate, can sell for hundreds. Coin collecting is growing as people learn about these hidden treasures, and the Buffalo Nickel is a star of the hobby.
Check Your Coins Today
Next time you empty a piggy bank or sort through old coins, take a closer look at those nickels. That small piece of metal could be worth a small fortune. The Buffalo Nickel shows that treasures can hide in plain sight after 30 years. Grab a magnifying glass, inspect your coins, and you might just uncover a valuable piece of history.
