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An old piggy bank collecting dust on a shelf might be hiding more than just forgotten pocket change. For one unsuspecting family in Pennsylvania, what started as a casual attic clean-out ended in a life-changing discovery. Among a pile of nickels, pennies, and dimes sat a worn Buffalo Nickel – a coin that would later sell for $2.7 million at auction.
This remarkable find wasn’t just about the coin’s age – it was about a rare minting error that turned an everyday object into a numismatic treasure.
The Story Behind the Buffalo Nickel
Minted from 1913 to 1938, the Buffalo Nickel is one of America’s most beloved coins. On one side, it features a Native American portrait, and on the other, a majestic buffalo. These coins represent a tribute to America’s frontier heritage and were widely used across the country during the early 20th century.
Although millions were produced, most Buffalo Nickels are now worth only a few dollars. However, certain variations – especially those with minting mistakes – can be worth a fortune.
The coin that fetched millions was a 1918/7-D overdate error. This means the Denver Mint accidentally stamped a 1918 date over a 1917 die, causing the numbers to overlap. Only a handful of these coins were ever released, making it one of the rarest and most sought-after coins in U.S. history.
How the Rare Coin Was Discovered
The coin came to light during a routine family activity. While clearing out boxes from their attic, the family found an old piggy bank from the 1970s. They emptied it onto the kitchen table, and a dull-looking nickel caught someone’s attention. The date looked a bit strange, so out of curiosity, they took it to a local coin shop.
A dealer examined the coin under magnification and suspected it could be the famous overdate error. After sending it to the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC) for verification, it was confirmed: they had a genuine 1918/7-D Buffalo Nickel, graded as Fine-12. Despite the wear, the error was clear, and the coin’s value skyrocketed.
What Makes the 1918/7-D So Valuable?
This particular error happened during World War I, a time when materials and resources were being stretched thin. In a cost-saving move, the mint reused a 1917 die and attempted to update the year by stamping an 8 over the 7. The result was a visibly overlapping date.
Because only a small number of these coins made it into circulation – and even fewer survived in decent condition – collectors are willing to pay top dollar. At auction, bidding was intense, with the final sale reaching $2.7 million. The family who found it plans to use the money for education and practical needs, calling the discovery a once-in-a-lifetime surprise.
Coin Collecting Craze on the Rise
The story has reignited interest in old coins. Social media platforms are full of posts from amateur coin hunters showing off finds and asking questions about possible errors. Local coin shops report an increase in visitors bringing in jars of old change for evaluation.
While the 1918/7-D is incredibly rare, other valuable Buffalo Nickel errors exist. One well-known example is the 1937-D “Three-Legged Buffalo”, caused by a die polishing mistake that erased one of the buffalo’s legs. Even these coins, if in good condition, can fetch tens of thousands of dollars.
How to Check Your Buffalo Nickels
If you have any Buffalo Nickels at home, here’s what to do:
- Look at the date, especially 1918. If the 8 appears stamped over a 7, you may have an overdate.
- Use a magnifying glass to inspect the coin closely.
- Weigh the coin – it should be around 5 grams.
- Do not clean it, as that can reduce its value.
- Visit a professional dealer or grading service like NGC or PCGS to authenticate it.
Even without errors, Buffalo Nickels in excellent condition can be worth hundreds. It’s worth taking the time to look.
Final Thoughts
One small coin changed a family’s future. It’s a reminder that treasures can hide in the most ordinary places. The next time you open a drawer or dig through an old jar of change, take a closer look. That worn Buffalo Nickel might just be your ticket to an unexpected fortune.