Some of the most valuable coins in American history aren’t locked away in museums—they’re sitting in old jars, dresser drawers, and even in everyday pocket change. One of the most famous examples is the 1937-D 3-Legged Buffalo Nickel, a mint error coin that has fascinated collectors for decades. If you’re lucky, one could still be hiding in your coin stash.
Why the 1937-D Buffalo Nickel Is So Special
The 1937-D Buffalo Nickel, minted in Denver, became legendary due to a unique error during the minting process. On the reverse side of the coin, the iconic American buffalo is missing one of its front legs—giving the illusion that it’s standing on just three legs. This striking mistake was unintentional but turned into one of the most collectible mint errors in U.S. coinage history.
How the 3-Legged Error Happened
In 1937, mint workers attempted to remove die clash marks by over-polishing the die used to strike the coins. During this process, the front right leg of the buffalo was accidentally removed from the die. Because the error wasn’t detected immediately, a small batch of these flawed nickels entered circulation.
Today, the 3-legged Buffalo Nickel is a favorite among numismatists and is considered one of the most iconic U.S. coin errors ever produced.
How to Identify a 1937-D 3-Legged Buffalo Nickel
If you want to check your change for this rare coin, here are the features to look for:
1. Mint Mark “D”
Look on the reverse side of the coin just beneath the words “FIVE CENTS.” A “D” mint mark means it was minted in Denver—the only location where the 3-legged error occurred.
2. Missing Front Leg
The front right leg of the buffalo (to the left from the viewer’s perspective) is entirely missing. The remaining three legs are clearly visible.
3. Flattened Ground Below the Buffalo
Due to die polishing, the area where the leg should be looks smooth and flat. This is a clear sign of the error.
4. Soft Detail Near the Belly
Some details near the buffalo’s belly and shoulders may appear weaker or less defined than on normal nickels.
How Much Is a 1937-D 3-Legged Buffalo Nickel Worth?
The value of this coin depends largely on its condition. Here’s a general breakdown:
- Good to Fine condition: $500–$1,500
- Very Fine to Extremely Fine: $2,000–$4,000
- Mint State (MS-60 or above): $10,000 to over $20,000
In 2021, an MS-65 grade specimen sold for nearly $30,000 at auction. Even well-worn examples still fetch high prices because of their rarity and historical appeal.
Is the 3-Legged Buffalo Nickel Still in Circulation?
Surprisingly, yes. While most have been identified and collected, a few examples still occasionally surface in garage sales, estate collections, old piggy banks, and even coin rolls from the bank. Many people simply overlook this coin, unaware of its potential value.
What to Do If You Find One
If you believe you’ve found a 1937-D 3-legged Buffalo Nickel, follow these important steps:
- Do not clean the coin – Cleaning will reduce its value and may damage the surface.
- Handle it carefully – Hold the coin by its edges and avoid touching the faces.
- Get it professionally graded – Submit it to reputable grading companies like PCGS or NGC for authentication and valuation.
Final Thoughts
The 1937-D 3-legged Buffalo Nickel isn’t just a quirky minting error—it’s a slice of American history and a true treasure for collectors. Whether you’re a seasoned coin enthusiast or just someone who enjoys checking change, this coin is worth watching for.
Next time you receive a nickel, don’t overlook it. You might be holding a coin worth thousands of dollars, quietly hiding in plain sight.