The Buffalo Nickel Valued At $6.1 Million, Still In Circulation – A Collector’s Gold Mine

One of America’s most iconic coins, the Buffalo Nickel, is making headlines again. A specific version of this coin—a 1913 Buffalo Nickel from the Denver Mint—was recently valued at a jaw-dropping $6.1 million.

What’s even more exciting? Experts believe that a few of these rare coins may still be in circulation, hiding in old drawers, forgotten boxes, or even your pocket change.

History of the Buffalo Nickel

The Buffalo Nickel, also known as the Indian Head Nickel, was minted from 1913 to 1938.

The obverse features the profile of a Native American man, while the reverse showcases a powerful American bison. This coin was designed to reflect the strength and heritage of early American life.

What Makes the $6.1 Million Buffalo Nickel So Valuable?

Feature	Details
Year & Mint	1913, Denver Mint
Estimated Value	$6.1 million
Rarity	Only a few known to exist
Condition	Near-mint, with well-preserved design features
Design Features	Full date, clear mint mark, and visible horn on the buffalo
Circulation Belief	Some may still exist in private hands or casual collections

This coin is considered one of the rarest and most desirable coins ever produced in the United States.

Key Traits of Valuable Buffalo Nickels

Not all Buffalo Nickels are worth millions, but some can be highly valuable if they meet the following criteria:

Low mintage years – especially 1913 (D or S mint marks)
Design errors – such as the famous 1937-D “three-legged buffalo”
Strong detail – including the buffalo’s horn, the Native American’s braid, and a clearly legible date
Uncirculated condition – coins with little to no wear hold the highest value
Rare die varieties – like doubled dies or overdates

If you find a Buffalo Nickel with these features, it’s worth having it appraised.

How to Check If You Own a Rare One

Inspect the coin under good lighting and look for these indicators:

Date and Mint Mark – Look for 1913 with a “D” below the words “Five Cents.”
Buffalo Details – A full horn on the bison is often a good sign.
Overall Sharpness – Check the braids, feathers, and date for crisp definition.
Weight and Thickness – Variations could indicate an error or off-metal strike.

Even if your coin isn’t worth millions, some Buffalo Nickels can fetch hundreds or even thousands of dollars.

The story of the $6.1 million Buffalo Nickel captures the imagination of collectors and everyday people alike. It’s a reminder that hidden treasures can still be found in the most ordinary places.

Whether you’re a coin enthusiast or just curious, take a second look at your pocket change—you could be holding one of the rarest coins in U.S. history.

FAQs

Can I really find a $6.1 million Buffalo Nickel in change?

Yes, although extremely rare, there’s a chance one may still exist in casual collections or overlooked coin stashes.

Why is the 1913-D Buffalo Nickel so valuable?

It’s extremely rare, especially in top condition, with few known examples. It also represents the first year of issue.

How do I know if my Buffalo Nickel is valuable?

Look for specific years, mint marks, visible detail, and rare errors. Having the coin graded professionally can confirm its worth.