The 1937-D 3-Legged Buffalo Nickel: A Rare Coin with a Big Price Tag
In the world of coin collecting, some mistakes turn regular coins into rare and valuable finds. One famous example is the 1937-D 3-Legged Buffalo Nickel—a coin that sold for an incredible $16,800 at auction.
This article explains where the coin came from, how the error happened, and why collectors are willing to pay so much for it.
How the 3-Legged Buffalo Nickel Was Made
The Buffalo Nickel, also called the Indian Head Nickel, was made between 1913 and 1938. It was designed by James Earle Fraser and shows a Native American on the front and a buffalo (American bison) on the back.
In 1937, a die at the Denver Mint was polished too much to remove marks from earlier use. As a result, most of the buffalo’s front right leg was accidentally removed. This mistake led to the creation of the rare 3-Legged Buffalo Nickel.
Why This Coin Is So Valuable
There are a few reasons why this coin is worth so much:
- Rarity: The mistake was caught fairly early, so only a limited number of these coins were released.
- Popularity: Collectors love error coins, especially ones with such a noticeable flaw.
- Condition: The better shape the coin is in, the more it’s worth.
Big Auction Sales
Here are some recent auction prices for the 1937-D 3-Legged Buffalo Nickel:
| Grade | Auction House | Price | Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| MS66+ | Legend Rare Coin Auctions | $99,875 | Oct 2021 |
| MS67 | Heritage Auctions | $85,000 | 2016 |
| AU58 | Heritage Auctions | $2,100 | Aug 2022 |
| VF30 | eBay | $1,299 | Recent |
(MS = Mint State, AU = About Uncirculated, VF = Very Fine)
How to Spot a Real 3-Legged Buffalo Nickel
If you think you have one of these special nickels, here’s what to check:
- Mint Mark: Look for a small “D” under the words FIVE CENTS on the back. This shows it was made in Denver.
- Missing Leg: The front right leg of the buffalo is almost completely gone.
- Die Markers: Some coins show extra polish lines or a rough texture on the back leg.
To be sure it’s real, send the coin to a trusted grading company like PCGS or NGC.
Why Collectors Love It
The 1937-D 3-Legged Buffalo Nickel is a great example of how a mistake can become a valuable piece of history. Its rarity and unique look make it a favorite among collectors. Whether you’re a longtime coin collector or just getting started, this coin shows how exciting the hobby can be.
FAQs
1. How many 1937-D 3-Legged Buffalo Nickels are there?
No one knows the exact number, but experts believe a few thousand made it into circulation before the mistake was fixed.
2. Can I still find a 3-Legged Buffalo Nickel in pocket change?
It’s very unlikely. Most of these coins are now in private collections or have been professionally graded.
3. How can I check if my coin is real?
Look for the missing leg and the Denver “D” mint mark. For full authentication, send it to grading services like PCGS or NGC.
4. What is the best condition for this coin to have?
Coins in Mint State (MS) condition are the most valuable, especially those graded MS66 or higher.