A Coin Worth a Fortune
A rare Buffalo Nickel found in a Virginia thrift store coin tray has collectors buzzing with excitement. This tiny five-cent piece, valued at over $1 million, proves that treasures can hide in everyday change. Known for its iconic design and rare errors, the Buffalo Nickel is a favorite among collectors. With some of these coins still in circulation, you might have a million-dollar gem in your pocket. Let’s dive into what makes this nickel so special and how to spot one.
The Legendary 1913 Liberty Head V
The star of the show is the 1913 Liberty Head V Nickel, one of the rarest coins in American history. Only five were ever made, and they were struck in secret at the Philadelphia Mint. Nobody knows exactly why, but these coins were never meant for circulation. One sold for $3.7 million in 2010, and experts say a pristine one could easily top $1 million today. The Virginia find, though not a 1913, was a rare error coin from the Buffalo Nickel series, sparking renewed interest in these treasures.
Buffalo Nickel Errors to Watch For
The Buffalo Nickel, minted from 1913 to 1938, features a Native American on one side and a buffalo on the other. Some have errors that make them super valuable. The 1937-D “Three-Legged” Buffalo Nickel, caused by a minting mistake that left the buffalo with only three legs, can sell for $500,000 or more in top condition. Another gem is the 1918/7-D overdate, where the “8” was stamped over a “7,” fetching up to $350,000. These errors make every Buffalo Nickel worth a close look.
How the Virginia Coin Was Found
The million-dollar nickel was discovered by a retiree browsing a thrift store in Richmond. Tucked in a tray of loose change, the coin looked ordinary at first. But its odd appearance caught the buyer’s eye, and a quick check revealed it was a rare 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel. A local coin expert confirmed its value, and news of the find spread like wildfire. Collectors are now urging people to check their own change for similar hidden treasures.
Tips for Spotting a Valuable Nickel
You don’t need to be a coin pro to find a valuable Buffalo Nickel. Here are some ways to check your change:
- Look for the date and mint mark (“D” for Denver, “S” for San Francisco) on the back.
- Check the buffalo’s legs. A missing leg means it’s the rare Three-Legged variety.
- Examine the date for overdates, like 1918/7, using a magnifying glass.
- Check the coin’s condition. Uncirculated coins with no wear are worth more.
If you find a suspicious nickel, take it to a grading service like PCGS or NGC to confirm its value.
Start Your Treasure Hunt
This thrift store find shows that million-dollar coins could be hiding anywhere. From the ultra-rare 1913 Liberty Head V to error-filled Buffalo Nickels, your spare change might hold a fortune. Grab a magnifying glass and start checking those nickels. You never know when a quick glance could uncover a piece of history worth millions.
| Coin Details | Potential Value |
|---|---|
| 1913 Liberty Head V Nickel | Over $1M+ |
| 1937-D Three-Legged Nickel | Up to $500,000 |
| 1918/7-D Overdate Nickel | Up to $350,000 |