Did you know that a small mistake on a coin could make it worth hundreds of thousands of dollars? One such coin is the 1918/7-D Buffalo Nickel, which has become one of the most famous error coins in the world. Even though it’s extremely valuable, many people have never heard about it. In this article, we’ll break down what makes this coin so special, how to spot a real one, and why collectors love it.
What Is the Buffalo Nickel?
The Buffalo Nickel, also called the Indian Head Nickel, was first made in 1913. This coin was designed by James Earle Fraser, a well-known artist.
- On the front of the coin (called the obverse), you can see the face of a Native American chief.
- On the back (called the reverse), there’s an image of a large American bison, which most people call a buffalo.
This design was meant to show respect for Native American culture and American wildlife. The coin was made until 1938, and then the Jefferson Nickel took its place.
What Is the 1918/7-D Error?
The 1918/7-D Buffalo Nickel is famous because of a minting mistake, called an overdate error. Here’s what happened:
- In 1918, the U.S. Mint in Denver needed more coins fast.
- To save time, they reused an old coin-making die from 1917.
- Instead of fully removing the old date, they stamped 1918 over 1917.
This left part of the “7” visible under the “8,” which you can see with your eyes—no special tools needed. That’s why it’s called the 1918/7-D overdate.
Another feature to look for is the “D” mintmark, which shows it was made in Denver. On real coins, this letter is slightly tilted to the left.
Why Is This Coin So Valuable?
This coin is super rare, and collectors love rare coins. Here’s why it’s worth so much:
- Only around 85 to 110 uncirculated examples exist today.
- Most are worn out, but a few look brand new.
- In February 2024, a very high-quality one sold for $511,875 at an auction!
Even if the coin is used or not in perfect shape, it can still be worth $630 to $29,000, depending on the condition.
How to Spot a Real 1918/7-D Buffalo Nickel
Because it’s so valuable, many fake versions of this coin exist. Here are three ways to check if it’s real:
- Look at the Date – You should clearly see the “7” under the “8.”
- Check the Mintmark – The “D” should tilt to the left and be between the words “FIVE” and “CENTS.”
- Find the Die Crack – Real coins often have a small crack on the Native American’s face, from the braid to the jaw.
If you’re ever unsure, send the coin to PCGS or NGC, which are trusted companies that can check and grade it for you.
Other Rare Buffalo Nickels You Should Know About
The 1918/7-D isn’t the only valuable Buffalo Nickel. Here are some other rare ones:
| Year | Variety | Value (USD) | Special Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1916 | Doubled Die Obverse | Up to $281,750 | Double image on the date |
| 1918 | 1918/7-D Overdate | Up to $511,875 | Overdate with “7” visible under “8” |
| 1937 | 3-Legged Buffalo | Up to $150,000 | Buffalo missing a front leg |
| 1926 | Low Mintage (S Mintmark) | Up to $322,000 | Very few were made, especially rare in mint condition |
Collectors look for these coins because each one has a unique story and mistake that makes it stand out.
Conclusion
The 1918/7-D Buffalo Nickel is one of the most amazing coin errors in U.S. history. It’s rare, valuable, and full of character. If you’re lucky enough to find one, it could change your life. But because there are many fakes, always get expert help to check if it’s real. This coin shows how even a tiny mistake can create something incredibly valuable in the world of coin collecting.
FAQ’S
1. What is the 1918/7-D Buffalo Nickel?
The 1918/7-D Buffalo Nickel is a rare U.S. coin with an overdate error, where the “8” was stamped over a “7,” making it highly valuable.
2. Why is the 1918/7-D Buffalo Nickel worth so much?
This coin is rare, with only a few uncirculated examples left. Its unique overdate error and historical significance make it worth up to $511,875.
3. How can I tell if my Buffalo Nickel is real?
Look for the visible “7” under the “8” on the date, a left-tilted “D” mintmark, and a possible die crack on the Native American’s face.
