Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel Imagine holding a coin that looks ordinary at first glance, only to realize it’s worth over a quarter-million dollars. The 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel is one of the most famous U.S. coin rarities, a treasure that has captivated collectors for decades. The story behind its creation and its journey to fame is as intriguing as its price tag.
1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel
The Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel is a rare variety of the 1937-D Buffalo nickel, minted in Denver. Due to a die polishing error, the buffalo on the reverse appears to have only three legs instead of four. This mistake transformed an otherwise common nickel into a legendary collector’s item.
The Origins: How This Error Happened
The Buffalo nickel, designed by James Earle Fraser, was minted from 1913 to 1938. In 1937, Denver Mint staff polished the die excessively to remove minor flaws. This over-polishing accidentally removed one of the buffalo’s front legs, creating the iconic three-legged appearance.
Why This Coin Is So Valuable Today
The coin’s rarity, combined with its unusual appearance, makes it highly sought after. Only a few hundred were believed to have been minted before the error was corrected.Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel In top condition, a 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel can fetch $270,000 or more at auction. Its appeal lies in both the novelty of the error and the historical significance of the Buffalo nickel series.
How Collectors Can Spot a Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel
- Examine the Buffalo’s Legs — Look closely; the front right leg appears missing or merged into the ground.
- Check the Mintmark — Only nickels with a “D” mintmark from Denver in 1937 exhibit this error.
- Condition Matters — Coins with clear detail and minimal wear command the highest prices.
Notable Facts About This Legendary Nickel
- The coin was first discovered in the 1940s and immediately became a collector’s sensation.
- Only a few hundred examples are believed to exist.
- It is considered one of the top error coins in U.S. history.
- In 2008, a well-preserved specimen sold for $270,000, setting a record for the series.
Expert Tips for Collectors
- Get Certified — Coins graded by PCGS or NGC attract higher offers.
- Avoid Circulated Damage — Handling can reduce value significantly.
- Compare Die Varieties — Minor differences distinguish a true three-legged error from normal wear.
Conclusion: From Simple Coin to $270,000 Legend
The 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel proves that even minor minting mistakes can create immense value.Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel Its unique story, rarity, and striking visual error make it one of the most celebrated coins in American history. If you ever spot one, you may be holding a true numismatic treasure.
FAQs
Q: Are all 1937-D nickels valuable?
A: No, only those with the three-legged error or exceptional condition are highly prized.
Q: Can I find one in circulation?
A: Extremely unlikely; most are in private collections or museums.
Q: How can I sell or buy a Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel?
A: Auctions, coin shows, and certified dealer marketplaces are the best avenues.