A weekend estate sale in suburban Pennsylvania turned into a treasure hunt when an experienced coin collector stumbled upon what appears to be an extremely rare 1936 Buffalo nickel. The coin, found among a collection of miscellaneous items in a small jewelry box, has sent ripples through the numismatic community.
The Buffalo nickel, also known as the Indian Head nickel, was minted from 1913 to 1938. While most Buffalo nickels from this era are relatively common, certain varieties and error coins can command substantial premiums among collectors.
What Makes This 1936 Buffalo Nickel Special
The Three-Legged Buffalo Variety
This particular 1936 Buffalo nickel appears to be the famous “three-legged buffalo” variety, one of the most sought-after error coins in American numismatics. The error occurred when a Denver Mint employee over-polished a die, accidentally removing the buffalo’s front right leg from the design.
The three-legged buffalo variety was created at the Denver Mint, identifiable by the “D” mint mark on the reverse side of the coin. Only a limited number of these error coins entered circulation before the mistake was discovered and corrected.
Condition and Potential Value
Initial examination suggests the coin is in remarkably good condition, potentially grading Fine to Very Fine. Depending on the final professional grading, experts estimate the coin could be worth anywhere from $1,500 to $4,000 or more.
The Estate Sale Find
How the Discovery Happened
The coin was purchased as part of a lot containing various vintage jewelry and collectibles for just $25. The buyer, a seasoned collector who preferred to remain anonymous, immediately recognized the potential significance of the piece.
“I’ve been collecting coins for over thirty years, and finding something like this at an estate sale is incredibly rare,” the collector shared. “Most people don’t realize what they have in their possession.”
Authentication Process
The coin is currently being submitted to Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) for official authentication and grading. This process will confirm whether the coin is indeed the genuine three-legged variety and establish its exact condition grade.
Historical Significance of Buffalo Nickels
Design and Creation
The Buffalo nickel was designed by sculptor James Earle Fraser and features a Native American profile on the obverse and an American bison on the reverse. The design was intended to celebrate America’s western heritage and indigenous peoples.
Collecting Interest
Buffalo nickels remain among the most popular series for coin collectors due to their distinctive design and relatively short production run. The three-legged variety represents one of the most famous error coins in the series.
Market Impact and Collector Interest
This discovery has renewed interest in Buffalo nickel collecting, with many collectors now actively searching estate sales and coin shops for overlooked varieties. The find serves as a reminder that valuable coins can still be discovered in unexpected places.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How can I identify a three-legged buffalo nickel?
A: Look for a 1936 Buffalo nickel with a “D” mint mark where the buffalo’s front right leg is missing or very faint.
Q: What should I do if I think I found a valuable coin?
A: Have it examined by a professional coin dealer or submit it to a reputable grading service for authentication.
Q: Are all 1936 Buffalo nickels valuable?
A: No, only the three-legged variety and other specific error coins command high premiums. Regular 1936 Buffalo nickels are worth modest amounts
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