Coin collecting has always been a fascinating world full of history, mystery, and hidden fortunes. Recently, two coins the 1937 Buffalo Nickel and the 1968 No-S Roosevelt Dime have stunned collectors by fetching massive prices, turning their finders into overnight millionaires. These coins are not only rare but also serve as perfect examples of how small minting mistakes or overlooked details can lead to big paydays.
The 1937 Buffalo Nickel: An Iconic Error with Big Value
The Buffalo Nickel, also known as the Indian Head Nickel, was minted from 1913 to 1938. Created by sculptor James Earle Fraser, this coin features a Native American profile on the front and an American bison on the reverse. It’s a symbol of American heritage but among these nickels, the 1937-D version hides a valuable secret.
What Makes the 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel So Rare?
The 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel is one of the most famous minting errors in U.S. coin history. Due to over-polishing of the die at the Denver Mint, one of the buffalo’s front legs was accidentally removed. This “three-legged” mistake created a rare variety that collectors still chase today.
Only a limited number of these error coins were released into circulation before the mistake was corrected. As a result, surviving examples are incredibly valuable especially those in near-mint condition.
Recent Sale That Made Headlines
One recently discovered 1937-D Three-Legged Nickel was authenticated and graded at a high level by a top coin grading service. It was later auctioned for over $100,000, shocking both the seller and the buyer. This rare nickel, which could’ve once been used to buy a soda, now represents a life-changing windfall.
How to Spot a 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel:
- Look for the “D” mint mark under the words “Five Cents” on the reverse.
- Check the buffalo’s front leg only three legs should be visible.
- Coins with sharp details and minimal wear are the most valuable.
The 1968 No-S Dime: A Modern Rarity
While dimes are often overlooked, one specific version of the 1968 Roosevelt Dime shocked collectors. Most proof coins from 1968 were struck at the San Francisco Mint and carry an “S” mint mark. However, a few rare dimes were mistakenly produced without any mint mark at all.
This unusual error turned an ordinary dime into an ultra-rare treasure.
Why the 1968 No-S Dime is Extremely Valuable
The U.S. Mint began making proof coins exclusively at the San Francisco Mint in the late 1960s. These proof coins were never intended for general circulation and were usually sold to collectors. The mint mark “S” was supposed to appear below the date on all such coins.
But due to a die error, a small number of 1968 proof dimes were struck without the “S” mint mark. These No-S dimes are now one of the rarest modern coins in existence. Only a handful have ever been found.
Record-Breaking Auction
One of these ultra-rare 1968 No-S Roosevelt Dimes was recently discovered in a private collection and sent for authentication. It was later sold at auction for over $450,000 an unbelievable return on what looked like an ordinary 10-cent coin.
How to Identify a 1968 No-S Dime:
- No mint mark below the date (proof coins usually have an “S”).
- It must have a mirror-like proof finish, not the duller finish of regular circulation coins.
- These coins are usually found in proof sets, not in loose change.
Why Rare Coins Like These Keep Appearing
You might wonder how coins worth thousands or even millions are still being found. The answer is simple: most people don’t know what to look for.
Many valuable coins are overlooked because:
- People rarely inspect their pocket change.
- Family heirlooms and coin jars go unchecked.
- Rare varieties often look almost identical to common ones.
These recent finds prove that valuable coins may still be in circulation, waiting for someone with a keen eye and a little knowledge.
How to Start Searching for Valuable Coins
Want to join the treasure hunt? Here are some tips to help you find valuable coins in your own home:
1. Check Every Coin’s Date and Mint Mark
Use a magnifying glass to inspect for errors or missing marks.
2. Know the Key Dates
Keep a list of rare coin years and mint varieties (like 1937-D and 1968 No-S).
3. Examine Proof Sets
If you have old proof coin sets, check each coin carefully some rare errors hide in plain sight.
4. Use Coin Apps and Price Guides
There are many free tools that can help you check if your coin is valuable.
5. Get Coins Graded
If you find something rare, send it to a professional grading service for authentication and valuation.
The Booming Market for Rare Coins
Rare coin collecting is no longer just a hobby it’s also a serious investment opportunity. Many collectors now view rare coins as assets that grow in value over time, especially as fewer mint errors are produced in modern coins.
High-grade coins, especially with historical errors, can increase in value rapidly. As awareness grows and demand rises, the market for coins like the 1937 Buffalo Nickel and 1968 No-S Dime continues to heat up.
Final Thoughts
The incredible stories behind the 1937 Buffalo Nickel and 1968 No-S Dime remind us that treasure can be hiding in plain sight. These coins, once part of everyday change, are now part of numismatic history and someone just got rich by recognizing their value.
So next time you receive coins at the grocery store or sort through an old piggy bank, take a moment to look closely. You might be holding a fortune disguised as spare change.
FAQs
What is the 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel?
It’s a rare error coin where one of the buffalo’s legs is missing due to over-polishing at the Denver Mint.
How much is a 1937-D Three-Legged Nickel worth?
Depending on condition, it can be worth tens of thousands — one sold for over $100,000.
What is the 1968 No-S Roosevelt Dime?
A rare proof coin mistakenly minted without the “S” mint mark, intended for collector sets.
Why is the 1968 No-S Dime so valuable?
Only a few exist, and one recently sold for over $450,000 at auction.
Can I still find rare coins in circulation?
Yes. Rare coins are sometimes overlooked in pocket change or stored unknowingly in old jars or proof sets.
