The 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel is one of the most captivating and valuable error coins in American numismatic history. Featuring a unique minting flaw that left the buffalo on the reverse side with only three visible legs, this coin has intrigued collectors and investors for decades.
In this article, we explore the history, rarity, value, and ways to identify this extraordinary piece of U.S. minting.
Table of Contents
- History
- Why Is This Coin So Valuable?
- How Much Is It Worth?
- How to Identify the Coin
- Why Collectors Love This Coin
- How to Preserve the Coin
- FAQs
History
The Buffalo Nickel, officially known as the Indian Head Nickel, was minted from 1913 to 1938. Designed by renowned sculptor James Earle Fraser, it features:
- Obverse: A profile of a Native American.
- Reverse: An American buffalo, symbolizing the nation’s strength and heritage.
In 1937, the Denver Mint made a critical error while trying to polish the coin dies. Over-polishing led to the removal of the buffalo’s front right leg, resulting in the famous “three-legged” appearance. What was initially an attempt to repair die damage inadvertently created one of the most renowned minting mistakes in American numismatic history.
Why Is This Coin So Valuable?
Several factors contribute to the value of the 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel:
- Unique Error: The missing front leg distinguishes this coin from millions of other Buffalo Nickels, making it highly collectible.
- Historical Significance: The coin serves as a reminder of early 20th-century minting processes and challenges.
- Limited Availability: Only a small number of these error coins were released, making them rare and highly sought after.
- Condition and Grade: Coins in better condition (higher grade) fetch significantly higher prices. Collectors prize well-preserved specimens.
How Much Is It Worth?
The value of the 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel can vary based on its condition. Here’s an approximate price guide:
- Fine (F-12): $600 – $800
- Very Fine (VF-20): $1,000 – $1,500
- Extremely Fine (EF-40): $2,000 – $3,000
- About Uncirculated (AU-50): $5,000 – $6,000
- Mint State (MS-63+): $10,000 – $20,000+
Top-quality examples of the 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel have sold for as much as $50,000 in auctions, reflecting its status as a prized addition to any collection.
How to Identify the 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel
To confirm you’ve found this rare coin, here’s what to look for:
- Missing Front Leg: The buffalo’s front right leg is either completely absent or only faintly outlined. The absence of the leg is a defining feature.
- Die Polish Lines: Horizontal lines may appear where the leg should be, resulting from the over-polishing of the die.
- Mintmark “D”: Located below the buffalo on the reverse side, indicating it was minted at the Denver Mint.
- Year “1937”: The year will be visible on the obverse, along with the distinctive Native American profile.
Why Collectors Love This Coin
The 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel holds a special place in numismatic collections for several reasons:
- Historical Value: The coin provides insight into the minting challenges faced by the U.S. Mint in the 1930s, making it a valuable educational piece.
- Unique Appearance: Its distinctive “three-legged” buffalo is instantly recognizable and stands out among other coins.
- Investment Potential: The value of this coin has increased over time, making it a solid investment for both seasoned and new collectors.
How to Preserve Your 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel
Proper preservation is crucial to maintaining the value of this rare coin. Here are some tips:
- Store in Coin Holders: Use acid-free holders or protective cases to prevent damage from dirt, moisture, or scratches.
- Avoid Cleaning: Never clean the coin, as it can scratch the surface and lower its value. The natural patina and wear are often preferred by collectors.
- Professional Grading: For authentication and to achieve the best value, have your coin graded by professional services like PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service) or NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Corporation).
FAQs
- What is the 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel?
It’s a rare minting error where the buffalo’s front right leg is missing due to over-polishing of the coin dies at the Denver Mint in 1937. - Why is this coin valuable?
Its unique minting error, historical significance, and rarity make it highly valuable to collectors and investors. - How much is a 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel worth?
Prices range from $600 to over $50,000, depending on the coin’s condition. - How do I identify this coin?
Look for the missing front leg, the “D” mintmark on the reverse, and the year 1937. - Should I clean my Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel?
No, cleaning the coin can damage its surface and significantly reduce its value.
The 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel is a rare treasure that showcases the unpredictability of coin minting. Whether you’re a seasoned numismatist or a beginner collector, understanding the significance and value of this unique error coin is a must. If you happen to own one, you could be sitting on a highly valuable piece of American history.