Buffalo nickels—also known as Indian Head nickels—were made from 1913 to 1938 and are considered some of the most iconic coins in U.S. history. These coins feature a Native American on one side and a buffalo on the other.
Collectors love these nickels for their unique design and historical importance. While millions were produced, a few dates and errors are especially rare. These rare coins can be worth thousands of dollars today. Here’s a look at the 15 rarest Buffalo nickels and what they might be worth.
1913-S Type 2 Buffalo Nickel
In 1913, the coin’s reverse design changed from a raised mound (Type 1) to a flat surface (Type 2) to prevent wear. The San Francisco Mint made fewer Type 2 coins, making them harder to find. These nickels sell for $300–$700 in circulated condition, and over $3,000 if uncirculated.
1916 Doubled Die Obverse
This error coin shows noticeable doubling on the date and the word “LIBERTY.” Caused by a misaligned die, only a few are known. Circulated versions sell for $3,000 to $15,000, and perfect coins can reach over $100,000.
1921-S Buffalo Nickel
With just over 1.5 million made, this coin had a low mintage and often came with a poor strike. Worn coins are worth $50–$200, while uncirculated ones can go over $5,000.
1918/7-D Overdate Buffalo Nickel
This rare error shows part of a “7” under the “8” in the date due to reusing a 1917 die in 1918. Circulated coins sell for $1,000 to $10,000, and high-quality ones have reached over $150,000.
1926-S Buffalo Nickel
Only 970,000 of these were made, the lowest regular mintage in the series. While worn versions are more common (around $30), uncirculated coins can sell for more than $10,000.
1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo
A heavily polished die removed part of the front leg on the buffalo, creating a dramatic error. Even circulated examples fetch $700 to $1,000. Mint condition versions may go for over $20,000.
1914/3 Overdate Buffalo Nickel
This error coin has a faint “3” visible under the “4.” Though less noticeable than other overdates, it’s still rare. Values range from $300 to $1,500 in circulated grades and much higher for uncirculated ones.
1913 Liberty Head/Type 1 Transitional Error
Only five Liberty Head nickels were mistakenly made in 1913 after the design had changed to the Buffalo type. This is one of the rarest U.S. coins ever. One sold in 2022 for more than $4.5 million.
1924-S Buffalo Nickel
This coin is common in worn condition but very rare in high grades because of weak strikes. Values range from $10 to $5,000 depending on the condition.
1935 Doubled Die Reverse
This variety shows clear doubling on the buffalo’s leg and fur. While not as rare as the 1916 double die, it’s still popular. Circulated coins sell for $100 to $300; uncirculated ones can hit $2,000+.
1915-S Buffalo Nickel
Made in San Francisco with lower mintage, this nickel is hard to find in great shape. Worn coins go for $50 to $500, while mint-state versions may reach over $3,000.
1936-D Three-and-a-Half Leg Buffalo
Similar to the 1937-D error, this coin has a partially missing front leg due to over-polishing. Prices start at $100 for circulated coins and can rise into the thousands for top-grade examples.
1927-S Buffalo Nickel
Another low mintage coin from San Francisco, this one also suffered from weak strikes. Values range from $20 to $300 in average condition and over $4,000 if mint state.
1938-D Buffalo Nickel (Final Year)
The last Buffalo nickel ever made, the 1938-D is well struck and popular with collectors. Uncirculated coins go for $30 to $100, while the best ones can bring in $1,000 or more.
1917-S Buffalo Nickel
Known for its lower mintage and fast wear, this coin is hard to find in excellent condition. It can sell for $20 to $200 when circulated and over $3,000 if uncirculated.
Conclusion
Buffalo nickels have become highly collectible thanks to their beauty and history. While most are common, these rare examples can be worth a lot. If you ever find one in your collection, it might just be a hidden treasure.