Have you ever wondered if that old nickel sitting in your change jar or inherited coin collection might be worth a fortune? The 1920-D Buffalo Nickel is one such hidden gem, with pristine specimens commanding up to $138,000 at auction. While it may appear like any other aged coin, its rarity and historical significance make it a prized possession among collectors.
In this guide, we’ll explore what makes the 1920-D Buffalo Nickel so valuable, how to identify one, and what steps to take if you believe you have a high-value specimen.
What Is the 1920-D Buffalo Nickel?
The 1920-D Buffalo Nickel is part of the iconic Buffalo Nickel series, also known as the Indian Head Nickel, which was minted from 1913 to 1938. Designed by renowned sculptor James Earle Fraser, the coin embodies the American frontier spirit with its detailed artwork:
- Obverse (Front): A composite portrait of three Native American chiefs.
- Reverse (Back): An American Bison, believed to be modeled after “Black Diamond,” a bison that lived in the Central Park Zoo.
The “D” mint mark signifies that this particular coin was struck at the Denver Mint. While over 9 million of these coins were produced, very few remain in high-grade condition, making them extremely valuable today.
How to Identify a 1920-D Buffalo Nickel
1. Check the Date and Mint Mark
- Look for the 1920 date on the front of the coin.
- Flip the coin over and check for a small “D” mint mark just below “FIVE CENTS” on the back.
2. Inspect the Condition
Coins in better condition are worth significantly more. Key features to examine:
- Hair Braids and Feathers (Obverse): The more visible, the better.
- Bison’s Horn and Fur (Reverse): High-value coins show strong details here.
3. Use a Magnifier or Coin Scale
- Look for any visible wear or damage.
- Weighing the coin can help rule out counterfeits (authentic Buffalo Nickels weigh 5 grams).
Why Is It Worth $138,000?
The reason the 1920-D Buffalo Nickel can reach such high prices boils down to rarity in mint condition. While lower-grade versions exist in greater numbers, only one known specimen has been graded MS67 (Mint State 67) by PCGS, making it a holy grail for collectors.
Factors That Influence Its Value
- High Demand: Collectors are always looking for top-grade Buffalo Nickels.
- Limited Surviving Population: Many 1920-D nickels were heavily circulated, leaving few in pristine condition.
- Historical Importance: The Buffalo Nickel series is one of the most beloved U.S. coin designs.
Below is a value chart based on condition:
| Grade | Estimated Value (USD) |
|---|---|
| Good (G-4) | $16 |
| Fine (F-12) | $45 |
| Very Fine (VF-20) | $107 |
| Extremely Fine (EF-40) | $271 |
| About Uncirculated (AU-50) | $375 |
| Mint State (MS-60) | $767 |
| Mint State (MS-65) | $5,185 |
| Mint State (MS-66) | $49,995 |
| Mint State (MS-67) | $138,000+ |
How to Authenticate and Sell a 1920-D Buffalo Nickel
If you believe you have a valuable 1920-D Buffalo Nickel, authentication is crucial. Reputable grading companies can determine its condition and provide an official certificate of authenticity.
Top Coin Grading Services
- PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service) – www.pcgs.com
- NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Corporation) – www.ngccoin.com
Where to Sell Rare Buffalo Nickels
- Auction Houses: Heritage Auctions, Stack’s Bowers
- Online Marketplaces: eBay (for graded coins), GreatCollections
- Coin Dealers: Visit a reputable dealer, preferably ANA-certified
- Coin Shows & Expos: Meet serious collectors face-to-face
Collector Tips: How to Maximize Your Coin’s Value
- Store it Properly: Keep it in a protective case or flip to prevent damage.
- Never Clean Your Coin: Cleaning can reduce its value by 50% or more!
- Stay Updated on Market Prices: Check PCGS or NumisMedia for real-time valuations.
- Join Collector Forums: Websites like CoinTalk or r/coins on Reddit can provide insights and opinions.
The 1920-D Buffalo Nickel is more than just pocket change—it’s a historical artifact that could be worth a life-changing sum. Whether you find one in your collection or come across one in the wild, knowing how to properly identify, authenticate, and sell it can make all the difference.
So, next time you go through an old piggy bank or inherited coin collection, take a closer look. You just might have a hidden fortune waiting to be discovered!
FAQs
How do I know if my 1920-D Buffalo Nickel is authentic?
Look for the 1920 date and the “D” mint mark below “FIVE CENTS.” For absolute certainty, send it to PCGS or NGC for grading.
Are all 1920-D Buffalo Nickels worth a lot of money?
Not necessarily. Lower-grade coins may be worth $20 to $300, but higher-grade examples in MS65+ condition can fetch thousands.
Why are high-grade 1920-D Buffalo Nickels so rare?
Most of these coins were heavily used in circulation, causing wear over time. Uncirculated specimens are extremely hard to find.
