Levi KeswickKey Takeaways:
- The 1937 Buffalo Nickel’s worth can vary from $0.5 to $20 for circulated pieces, while uncirculated ones can fetch up to $8,000.
- Mint marks and errors greatly influence the coin’s value.
- Among the most valuable errors is the three-legged 1937 Buffalo Nickel, which can sell for thousands of dollars.
A Glimpse into the Design of the 1937 Buffalo Nickel
The 1937 Buffalo Nickel showcases a Native American figure with traditional feathers on the obverse side. A bison features prominently on the reverse side, with the words “United States of America” above and “FIVE CENTS” below it. In Type 1 1937 buffalo nickels, “FIVE CENTS” sits on a flat surface.
The mint date and sculptor James Earl Fraser’s initials, represented by an ‘F’, are located on the obverse side of the coin. The location of the mint mark varies depending on the mint of origin and is found on the reverse side beneath the denomination.
Factors Influencing the Value of the 1937 Buffalo Nickel
The 1937 Buffalo Nickel’s value is heavily influenced by the presence of mint marks, the condition of the coin, its rarity, and demand among collectors. While high mintage has resulted in an abundance of circulated coins, the high demand among collectors still drives value.
Mint marks greatly influence a coin’s value. For example, the 1937-D Buffalo Nickel, struck in Denver, can range from $1 to a staggering $25,000. Moreover, the physical condition of the coin is essential. Given the poor durability of buffalo nickels, a coin in excellent condition is particularly valuable.
Grading System for the 1937 Buffalo Nickel
Accurately grading Buffalo nickels can be a complex task, even for experienced collectors. Categories such as FR/AG (fair or about good), G/VG (good or very good), F/VF (fine or very fine), and EF/AU (extremely fine/almost uncirculated) are established to help determine a coin’s grade based on its physical condition.
Understanding 1937 Buffalo Nickel Errors
The presence of errors on the 1937 Buffalo Nickel can greatly enhance its value. Notably, the most common error is the three-legged buffalo, primarily found on the 1937-D Buffalo Nickel. Experts believe this error occurred due to excessive die cleaning, which resulted in the buffalo’s right front leg being faint or entirely absent. Despite being an error, this variant is highly sought after by collectors and can significantly raise a nickel’s value.
When collecting 1937 Buffalo Nickels, it’s crucial to consider the condition and authenticity of your coins. Pay special attention to the buffalo’s missing right front leg! The 3-Legged Buffalo type, a striking mint manufacturing fault, is highly coveted by collectors.
To safeguard your investment, always ensure a trustworthy coin vendor authenticates rare Buffalo nickels before purchase. Remember, the value of these coins can fluctuate over time. As such, diligently tracking the market and noting price trends can help maximize your return.
In conclusion, the 1937 Buffalo Nickel offers an exciting opportunity for numismatics enthusiasts. Its intriguing design, rarity, and associated errors make it a valuable addition to any coin collection. Whether you’re an experienced collector or a novice in the coin-collecting world, understanding the intricacies of the 1937 Buffalo Nickel can lead to a rewarding collecting experience.
