The 1937 Buffalo nickel might look like an ordinary five-cent coin, but some versions could be hiding significant value. While many 1937 nickels are worth just slightly more than face value, certain rare varieties, pristine conditions, and error coins can make collectors’ eyes light up. Let’s dive into what makes the 1937 Buffalo nickel special and how much yours could be worth.
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What is the 1937 Buffalo Nickel Made Of?
The 1937 Buffalo nickel shares its iconic design with the earlier Type II version that debuted in 1913. The biggest change? The buffalo on the reverse side now stands on flat ground instead of a raised mound, which helps protect the word “FIVE CENTS” from wear.
The obverse side features the famous Native American portrait, designed by James Earle Fraser, along with the word “LIBERTY” and the mint year on the figure’s shoulder. Look closely, and you’ll see Fraser’s initial “F” beneath the date. The reverse showcases the American buffalo with the words “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “E PLURIBUS UNUM” arched above it.
1937 Buffalo Nickel Varieties and Mint Locations
In 1937, millions of Buffalo nickels were minted across three locations: Denver (D), Philadelphia (P), and San Francisco (S). There were also a small number of proof coins minted in Philadelphia. Here’s a breakdown of the varieties:
| Variety | Mint Location | Mintage |
|---|---|---|
| 1937 D Buffalo Nickel | Denver | 17,826,000 |
| 1937 P Buffalo Nickel | Philadelphia | 79,480,000 |
| 1937 S Buffalo Nickel | San Francisco | 5,635,000 |
| 1937 Proof Buffalo Nickel | Philadelphia | 5,769 |
| Total Mintage | 102,946,769 |
How Much Is the 1937 Buffalo Nickel Worth?
In circulated condition, most 1937 Buffalo nickels are worth between $0.22 and $3.30. However, if you’ve got a mint condition or rare error version, the value can soar! For instance, a pristine 1937 D Buffalo nickel once sold for a record-breaking $35,250 at auction!
Here’s a look at the potential value of 1937 Buffalo nickels:
- Denver (D): Up to $10,000 in uncirculated condition
- Philadelphia (P): Up to $8,000 in uncirculated condition
- San Francisco (S): Up to $22,500 in uncirculated condition
- 1937 D 3-Legged Error: This rare error could fetch up to $110,000!
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The Famous 1937 3-Legged Buffalo Nickel Error
One of the most sought-after error coins is the 1937 Denver Mint Buffalo nickel, also known as the “3-legged” variety. Due to a minting mistake, the buffalo on the reverse appears to have only three legs, with the front right leg nearly invisible. Coins with this error can sell for tens of thousands of dollars, depending on their condition.
Where to Buy or Sell Your 1937 Buffalo Nickel
If you’re looking to buy or sell a 1937 Buffalo nickel, online auction sites like eBay, Etsy, and Amazon are good places to start. You can also visit coin shops, but the rarer coins may be harder to find. For high-value nickels, getting them appraised and graded by reputable services like PCGS or NGC is essential to ensure you’re getting the right value.
Ethan is a passionate rare coin collector with years of experience uncovering the stories and history behind unique coins. His insightful articles are a go-to for anyone curious about coin values or their fascinating backstories.