The Buffalo Nickel is one of the most recognizable coins ever produced by the United States Mint. Featuring a Native American portrait on one side and an American bison on the other, the design captured the spirit of the American West and has remained a favorite among collectors since its introduction in 1913.

While millions of Buffalo Nickels were produced between 1913 and 1938, certain dates, mint marks, and error varieties have become incredibly valuable over the years. If you come across an old Buffalo Nickel in a coin collection, estate sale, or inherited coin jar, these are some of the most valuable examples worth knowing about.

1935 Doubled Die Reverse Buffalo Nickel

This famous error coin features noticeable doubling on portions of the reverse design, particularly in the lettering. Strong examples are highly sought after by error coin collectors, with top-grade specimens bringing six-figure prices at auction.

1931-S Buffalo Nickel

Produced during the difficult years of the Great Depression, the 1931-S had one of the lower mintages in the Buffalo Nickel series. Finding one with sharp details and minimal wear is exceptionally difficult, which is why premium examples command impressive prices.

1936-D 3½ Legs Buffalo Nickel

An over-polished die partially removed one of the buffalo’s front legs, creating this unusual and highly collectible variety. The distinctive appearance makes it instantly recognizable and a favorite among Buffalo Nickel enthusiasts.

1919-S Buffalo Nickel

Many 1919-S nickels spent decades in circulation, leaving few examples with strong details intact. High-grade survivors are scarce, and collectors often compete fiercely when exceptional specimens come to market.

1924-D Buffalo Nickel

Although millions were minted, most examples saw heavy circulation and significant wear. Well-preserved examples with strong strikes are surprisingly difficult to find and remain highly desirable.

1917-D Buffalo Nickel

This Denver-minted issue can be found in worn condition, but truly exceptional examples are another story. Collectors place a premium on coins that retain their original luster and sharp design details.

1925-D Buffalo Nickel

The 1925-D is notorious for weak strikes that left many coins lacking detail from the moment they were produced. As a result, examples with strong definition and minimal wear often sell for substantial sums.

1926-D Buffalo Nickel

Many collectors consider the 1926-D one of the toughest Buffalo Nickels to locate in top condition. The combination of low survival rates and typically weak strikes has made it one of the key dates in the series.

1938 D/S Over Mint Mark Buffalo Nickel

This fascinating variety occurred when a Denver mint mark was stamped over a previously punched San Francisco mint mark. The unusual error creates a visible overlap that continues to attract strong collector interest.

1923-S Buffalo Nickel

San Francisco produced relatively few Buffalo Nickels in 1923, and most entered heavy circulation. Coins with crisp details and limited wear have become increasingly valuable as demand continues to grow.

1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel

Perhaps the most famous Buffalo Nickel error of all, this coin appears to show a buffalo missing one of its front legs due to excessive die polishing. Its unusual appearance and widespread recognition have made it one of the most sought-after error coins in American numismatics.

1924-S Buffalo Nickel

The 1924-S is another San Francisco issue that is extremely difficult to find in high grades. Most surviving examples show significant wear, making sharply struck and well-preserved specimens especially valuable.