Yes, you read that right. One Buffalo Nickel has been reported to hold a staggering value—$601,000,000. While that valuation might seem jaw-dropping (and possibly exaggerated), the truth remains: some Buffalo Nickels are worth a fortune, and you might just have one hiding in plain sight.
Let’s dive into why this iconic coin is so valuable, which versions command top dollar, and how to tell if you’re sitting on a small (or massive) fortune.
What Is the Buffalo Nickel?
Minted from 1913 to 1938, the Buffalo Nickel—also known as the Indian Head Nickel—is one of the most recognized and beloved coins in American numismatic history.
Design:
- Obverse (front): A Native American profile, believed to be a composite of several tribal chiefs.
- Reverse (back): A majestic American bison, commonly referred to as a buffalo.
The design is rugged, symbolic, and uniquely American. But for collectors, it’s not just the artistry—it’s the rarity and condition that send prices skyrocketing.
Why Are Some Buffalo Nickels Worth Millions?
Several factors can make a Buffalo Nickel exceptionally valuable:
- Low mintage or rare date/mint combinations
- Mint errors (misstrikes, off-centers, overdates)
- Full details on the coin (especially on the buffalo’s horn)
- High-grade condition, especially uncirculated or proof examples
- Historical significance or one-of-a-kind features
Now, let’s explore some of the most valuable Buffalo Nickels, and why one of them is rumored to be worth over half a billion dollars.
1. 1913-S Type 2 Buffalo Nickel
Estimated Value: Up to $500,000+
This coin was the first year of issue, and San Francisco made a very limited number. The “Type 2” version features a flat ground beneath the buffalo rather than a raised mound.
Why it’s valuable:
- Only a few hundred thousand were minted.
- Even worn examples fetch thousands.
- In pristine condition, this coin is a collector’s holy grail.
If your Buffalo Nickel says 1913 with an “S” mint mark on the reverse, check which version it is—it might be worth more than your car.
2. 1918/7-D Overdate Buffalo Nickel
Estimated Value: Up to $350,000+
This is one of the most famous error coins in U.S. history. Due to die re-use, a 1918 date was stamped over a 1917, creating a visible overdate.
Why it’s valuable:
- Very few exist.
- The overdate is visible with magnification.
- Collectors prize it as a top-tier error.
Spotting a clear “7” beneath the “8” in the date could mean a six-figure payday.
3. 1926-S Buffalo Nickel
Estimated Value: Up to $300,000+
This date had one of the lowest mintages of the entire series and is incredibly hard to find in high grade.
Why it’s valuable:
- Low survival rate in mint condition.
- Strong demand from advanced collectors.
- In MS-66 or higher, it’s nearly unmatched in value.
This is a case where condition makes all the difference—even moderately worn versions fetch hundreds.
4. 1937-D “Three-Legged” Buffalo Nickel
Estimated Value: $50,000–$150,000+
Due to over-polishing of the coin die at the Denver Mint, the buffalo on this coin appears to be missing its front leg. The error was not caught immediately, and some entered circulation.
Why it’s valuable:
- It’s a dramatic and easily recognizable mint error.
- Collectors love weird and visually striking mistakes.
- Only a few thousand exist in decent condition.
A buffalo missing its leg? Sounds like a myth—but it’s a real, expensive coin.
5. The $601 Million Buffalo Nickel – Fact or Fantasy?
While the idea of a Buffalo Nickel worth $601 million makes for a great headline, such a valuation likely comes from urban legends or exaggerated stories about unique specimens. Realistically, the highest price fetched for a Buffalo Nickel at auction is in the $300,000 to $500,000 range.
That said, some theoretical valuations could hit the hundreds of millions if a never-before-seen proof strike, one-of-one error, or historically significant piece (e.g., once owned by a president or found in a major hoard) were discovered and sold in a bidding war between elite collectors.
In short: the $601 million valuation is likely symbolic, but it underscores a real truth—some Buffalo Nickels can be worth life-changing amounts.
How to Tell If Your Buffalo Nickel Is Valuable
Here’s a quick checklist to help you identify whether your coin might be special:
Date and Mint Mark – Look for 1913-S, 1918/7-D, 1926-S, 1937-D
Buffalo Details – A missing leg, strong horn detail, or over-polished die
Weight and Feel – Genuine Buffalo Nickels weigh 5 grams and have a rugged edge
Condition – The less wear, the more value
Mint Errors – Off-center strikes, die cracks, or doubling
If in doubt, consult a certified coin appraiser or grading service (like PCGS or NGC) to authenticate and grade your coin.
Final Thoughts: Check Your Change!
Whether or not there’s a Buffalo Nickel truly worth $601 million, the fact remains—you might be carrying thousands of dollars in your pocket without knowing it. From famous overdates to legless buffaloes and low-mintage coins, the Buffalo Nickel is a treasure hunter’s dream.
So don’t overlook that old coin jar or inherited box of change. That nickel might just turn out to be the rare gem that changes your life.
