A Surprise Treasure in a Child’s Bank
Imagine finding a coin in an old piggy bank that’s worth thousands. That’s what happened to a family in Texas who discovered a rare Buffalo Nickel tucked away for 30 years. The Buffalo Nickel, minted from 1913 to 1938, shows a Native American on the front and a buffalo on the back. Some of these coins are so valuable they could pay off a car or even a house. This story proves you might have a fortune hiding in a forgotten corner of your home.
Why Buffalo Nickels Are Special
The Buffalo Nickel, also called the Indian Head Nickel, is a favorite among collectors because of its unique design and history. Certain years and minting errors make some worth a lot. For example, a 1913-S Type 2 in great condition can sell for over $1,000, and a famous 1937-D “Three-Legged” error coin can fetch $50,000 or more. The coin’s value depends on its rarity, condition, and any mistakes made during minting, like missing legs on the buffalo or doubled dates.
How to Spot a Valuable Nickel
Want to find a rare Buffalo Nickel? Here’s what to look for:
| Feature | What to Check | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Year | 1913, 1926, or 1937 | Rare years increase value |
| Mint Mark | “S” or “D” below buffalo | San Francisco or Denver coins are rarer |
Use a magnifying glass to check for errors, like the 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo, where the front leg is missing. Also, look at the date and design clarity; worn coins are worth less. A coin in “mint state” (like new) can be worth hundreds or thousands more than a beat-up one.
The Piggy Bank Discovery
The Texas family found their Buffalo Nickel in a dusty piggy bank that belonged to their now-grown son. He’d tossed spare change in it as a kid, and it sat untouched for decades. When they cracked it open, they found a 1913-S Type 2 nickel in near-perfect condition. A local coin shop appraised it at $2,500, but rare error versions have sold for much more. For example, a 1918/7-D overdate Buffalo Nickel sold for $350,000 in 2023. The family’s find wasn’t millions, but it was enough for a nice vacation.
Where to Find These Coins
You could stumble across a Buffalo Nickel in everyday places. Check these spots:
| Place | Why Check It | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Old Piggy Banks | Kids saved coins years ago | Look in attics or closets |
| Coin Rolls | Banks may have old nickels | Ask for uncirculated rolls |
Estate sales, flea markets, or family heirlooms are other good spots. If you’re hunting, handle coins by the edges to avoid scratches, as damage lowers value. Even a common Buffalo Nickel in great shape can sell for $50 or more.
What to Do If You Find One
If you find a rare Buffalo Nickel, don’t clean it; cleaning can ruin its value. Take it to a grading service like PCGS or NGC to confirm its condition and authenticity. They’ll assign a grade, which sets its market price. Then, you can sell it through an auction house, a trusted coin dealer, or online platforms like eBay. The Texas family’s story shows that treasures can hide in plain sight. Check your old piggy banks, drawers, or change jars; a Buffalo Nickel from 30 years ago could be your ticket to a big payday.