1937 Buffalo Nickel
Strike Type
Coin Details
Value Estimates
Values as of May 2026 — estimates reflect typical grades (G-4 through MS-63). Coins in lower or exceptional grades may fall outside this range.
Auction Record
$18,213 MS68 06-02-2014 Goldberg Auctioneers
Description
The 1937 Buffalo Nickel is a nickel produced at the Philadelphia Mint as part of the Buffalo Nickels 1913-1938 series. The U.S. Mint produced 79.5 million examples, making this the highest mintage among 4 variants, accounting for 66% of the year's production. The obverse features a composite Native American portrait combining features of three real tribal chiefs — Iron Tail (Lakota), Two Moons (Cheyenne), and John Big Tree (Seneca) and the reverse displays an American bison (often called Black Diamond after the famous bison at the Bronx Zoo) standing on a mound. The 1937-D "Three-Legged Buffalo" error, caused by excessive die polishing, is one of the most iconic U.S. coin errors. Also the final year of the series. Struck at the original U.S. Mint facility, in continuous operation since 1792. Estimated market value ranges from $2 to $50 depending on grade and condition. Struck in 75% copper, 25% nickel, weighing 5 grams, 21.2 mm in diameter, with a plain edge. Cataloged as PCGS #3980.
