A Hidden Gem in Your Change
Imagine finding a small fortune in your pocket change. A rare Buffalo nickel, missing its date, could be worth as much as $750,000, and experts say some are still out there. Known as the “dateless” Buffalo nickel, this coin is a collector’s dream due to a minting flaw that wore off the date over time. These coins, minted between 1913 and 1938, are sparking excitement among coin hunters across the USA. You might have one tucked away in a drawer or an old jar, waiting to change your life.
What Makes This Nickel So Valuable
The Buffalo nickel, also called the Indian Head nickel, was designed by James Earle Fraser and features a Native American on one side and a buffalo on the other. The date on early versions was raised, making it prone to wearing off with use. This created “dateless” coins that are now highly prized, especially rare varieties like the 1918/7-D overdate. This error happened when a 1918 coin was stamped over a 1917 die, creating a unique mix of numbers. One such coin sold for $750,000 at a 2024 auction, making it one of the most valuable nickels ever.
How to Spot a Million-Dollar Nickel
Think you might have one? Here’s what to check. Look for a Buffalo nickel with no visible date or a faint one. Focus on coins from the Denver mint, marked with a small “D” on the back under the buffalo. The 1918/7-D overdate is the big prize, where the “8” in the date shows traces of a “7” underneath. You’ll need a magnifying glass to spot this, as the overdate is subtle. Also, check the coin’s overall wear; valuable ones often look well-circulated but retain key details. If you find a candidate, don’t polish it, as that can lower its value. Take it to a professional grader like PCGS or NGC for authentication.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Years Minted | 1913–1938 |
| Mint Mark | D (Denver) |
| Key Variety | 1918/7-D Overdate |
| Material | 75% Copper, 25% Nickel |
| Estimated Value | Up to $750,000 |
Where These Coins Might Turn Up
These rare nickels could be hiding anywhere. Some were spent as regular change before their value was known, so they might appear in old coin collections, estate sales, or even vending machine returns. Experts believe only a few dozen 1918/7-D coins exist, with most in private hands or museums. Stories of people finding valuable coins in everyday places have sparked a nationwide search. Check your loose change, family heirlooms, or old piggy banks—you could stumble on a treasure.
What to Do If You Find One
If you think you’ve got a dateless Buffalo nickel, handle it with care. Store it in a soft cloth or plastic holder to avoid damage. Reach out to a trusted coin dealer or auction house for an expert opinion. Fakes are common, so professional grading is a must to confirm authenticity. If it’s the real deal, you could be looking at a life-changing payout. Even less perfect versions of this nickel can sell for thousands. With collectors eager to snap up these rarities, now’s the time to check your coins and see if you’re holding a small fortune.