In the fascinating world of rare coin collecting, some of the most valuable treasures aren’t found in museums or auction houses—they’re discovered in ordinary places. One such remarkable find recently came to light when a family uncovered a forgotten Buffalo Nickel that had been sitting quietly inside a piggy bank for over 30 years. What seemed like a dusty old coin turned out to be a historic gem worth thousands of dollars.
A Humble Discovery in a Small Town
This incredible story began in a small Midwestern town during a family’s effort to clean out their late grandfather’s home. Tucked away in the back of a closet was a ceramic piggy bank that hadn’t been opened since the early 1990s. When the family cracked it open, they found a stash of coins that looked like ordinary pocket change—until one particular nickel stood out.
It was aged, worn, and instantly intriguing. On closer inspection, the coin revealed a faint image of a buffalo on the back and a nearly faded date on the front. Little did they know, they had stumbled upon a true numismatic treasure.
What Is a Buffalo Nickel?
The Buffalo Nickel, also known as the Indian Head Nickel, was minted in the United States from 1913 to 1938. Designed by James Earle Fraser, the coin features a composite portrait of Native American chiefs on the obverse and a powerful image of an American bison—modeled after the famous “Black Diamond” from New York’s Central Park Zoo—on the reverse.
Although millions of Buffalo Nickels were produced, many were heavily circulated, making well-preserved examples and those with rare mint marks highly valuable among collectors today.
The Coin That Shocked the Family
As the family examined the nickel, they noticed a “1916” date and a small “D” mintmark under the words “FIVE CENTS,” indicating it was struck in Denver. Curious and hopeful, they took the coin to a reputable dealer for a professional evaluation. That’s when the real surprise came.
The coin was identified as a rare 1916-D Buffalo Nickel in remarkable condition. After being sent for grading, it was officially classified as Mint State 65 (MS65)—a top-tier grade that’s extremely rare for a coin of that age.
When it eventually went to auction, the coin sold for an incredible $42,000, proving once again that treasures can be hiding in the most unexpected places.
Why the Buffalo Nickel Matters
This rare coin isn’t just valuable for its price tag—it represents a piece of American history. It reflects a period when artistry and craftsmanship were central to coin design, and it serves as a reminder that even the most ordinary-looking items can carry deep significance.
For collectors and history lovers alike, the Buffalo Nickel continues to be one of the most iconic and sought-after coins in American numismatics.
Lessons for Coin Collectors and Curious Finders
This heartwarming story offers some valuable lessons for anyone who might have a coin jar collecting dust in the attic:
1. Always Check Old Change
What looks like spare change could actually be worth thousands. Rare coins often go unnoticed in piggy banks, drawers, or jars.
2. Don’t Clean Old Coins
Cleaning a coin can drastically reduce its value. Collectors and grading companies prefer coins in their original, unaltered condition.
3. Learn About Key Dates and Mintmarks
Certain years and mintmarks—like the 1916-D—are significantly more valuable. A bit of research can go a long way.
4. Get Rare Coins Professionally Graded
Professional grading provides authentication, protects the coin, and boosts its market value when selling or auctioning.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is a Buffalo Nickel?
The Buffalo Nickel, also called the Indian Head Nickel, is a five-cent coin minted between 1913 and 1938. It features a Native American on one side and an American buffalo on the other.
Q2: Why are Buffalo Nickels valuable?
Their historical design, limited production years, and rarity in good condition make them highly collectible. Some key-date and mintmark combinations can fetch thousands of dollars.
Q3: What made the coin found in the piggy bank special?
It was a 1916-D Buffalo Nickel in Mint State 65 condition—an extremely rare and desirable find. Its pristine preservation over a century made it worth $42,000 at auction.
Final Thoughts
The story of the Buffalo Nickel that waited silently in a piggy bank for 30 years is more than a tale of financial gain—it’s a reminder that our everyday surroundings may hold overlooked treasures. With a little curiosity and care, you too might uncover a piece of history waiting to be rediscovered.
So before you toss out that old jar of coins, take a closer look. You never know what stories—and value—they might hold.