The 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel stands out as one of the most iconic and sought-after error coins in American history. Known for its unique design flaw, this nickel has fascinated both collectors and investors with its distinctive appearance and value.
The Story Behind the Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel
Produced at the Denver Mint, the 1937-D Buffalo Nickel is famous for an error that gives the buffalo on the reverse side an illusion of having only three legs. This mistake resulted from excessive die polishing, which partially erased the buffalo’s front right leg. Instead of correcting the error, a small batch of these nickels entered circulation, creating a limited supply that would later drive high collector demand.
The Buffalo Nickel Series
The Buffalo Nickel series, officially known as the Indian Head Nickel, was minted from 1913 to 1938 and designed by sculptor James Earle Fraser. The coin features a Native American profile on the obverse side and an American bison on the reverse, symbolizing Western heritage and America’s frontier spirit. While Buffalo Nickels are collectible in their own right, the 1937-D with the three-legged error stands out due to its rarity, making it one of the most cherished coins in U.S. numismatic history.
How the Three-Legged Error Happened
The three-legged error occurred due to excessive polishing of the coin die at the Denver Mint in 1937. The die had likely been damaged or marked, and mint workers used heavy polishing to erase these imperfections. In the process, the front leg of the buffalo was removed, leaving only three legs visible. The error was not immediately caught or corrected, allowing a limited number of these coins to circulate.
Today, this error is highly recognizable and adds a unique aspect to the Buffalo Nickel, which appeals to both numismatists and investors seeking distinct collectibles. The striking appearance of the error is one reason this nickel remains so popular among U.S. coin collectors.
Value of the 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel
The value of the 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel varies based on condition. In lower grades, the coin can be worth several hundred dollars, while well-preserved, high-grade examples can fetch several thousand dollars at auctions. Coins in near-mint or uncirculated condition are especially valuable, as they are rarer and in better visual quality than lower-grade examples. The scarcity of the coin combined with the visual appeal of the three-legged error has led to high demand among collectors and significant value increases over time.
| Coin Name | Year Issued | Mint Mark | Error Type | Value Range ($) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1937-D Three-Legged Nickel | 1937 | D | Missing Leg | Up to $3,000+ |
| 1955 Double Die Penny | 1955 | None | Double Die | Up to $1,500+ |
| 1943 Copper Penny | 1943 | None | Incorrect Metal | Up to $100,000+ |
| 1922 Plain “No D” Penny | 1922 | None | Missing Mint Mark | Up to $10,000 |
Finding the 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel
The best places to find the 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel include coin shows, auction sites, and reputable specialty dealers. Given its popularity, counterfeit versions have circulated in the market, so buyers should exercise caution. Collectors are advised to consult reputable dealers or consider third-party grading from trusted sources like the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) or Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC) to confirm authenticity before purchasing.
A Legacy of Collectible Error Coins
The 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel remains a prime example of how a minting mistake can elevate a coin’s status to an iconic collectible. Error coins like this not only capture the interest of seasoned collectors but also stand as historical artifacts, representing quirks in the coin production process that inadvertently led to a unique treasure.
FAQs:
What caused the three-legged error on the 1937-D Buffalo Nickel?
The error resulted from excessive polishing of the die at the Denver Mint, which removed part of the buffalo’s front right leg, creating the appearance of only three legs.
How much is a 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel worth?
The value varies by condition, ranging from several hundred dollars for lower-grade coins to several thousand dollars for well-preserved, high-grade examples.
Where can I find a 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel?
Collectors often find these coins at coin shows, auctions, and reputable dealers. Due to counterfeits, it’s advised to purchase from trusted sources and seek third-party grading.