The 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo nickel is one of the most coveted coins. In numismatics and among collectors, this coin is very popular.
The mistake appears on the reverse side of this particular type of coin. Here, it can easily be seen that the Buffalo does not possess a front leg.
This abnormal condition makes it very rare and valuable; coin sales at auctions have as high as $99,875.
Knowledge of the 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo nickel:
From 1913 up to 1938, it was produced until its cessation; in 1937, in the Denver Mint, there arose a certain anomaly which would finally produce the famous Three-Legged Buffalo nickel.
Origins of the Anomaly.

This was caused by over-polishing an old reverse die. This excessive polishing removed the Buffalo’s front leg and made its back leg look “moth-eaten.” An indicator of this type of feature is that a “stream” is visible under the buffalo’s belly. If this feature is not present, the coin may be suspected of being altered.
Identifying the Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel:
Collectors can check the legs of the buffalo on the back side of the coin to identify this type. The missing front leg and weak hind leg are the key signs. There is also a sort of “stream” under the buffalo’s belly, which is also a great identification tool.
Value and Rarity:
Because it is rare, a 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo nickel is quite expensive. A normal-grade coin can trade from $350 to $1,950. A coin graded as MS66 can sell for $52,995.
Grades and Grading:
Coins are graded according to their state. They range from Good (G) to Mint State (MS). The 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo nickel is more precious, especially the higher-grade ones.
Legitimate certificates from agencies such as PCGS or NGC prove the legitimacy of the coin and add its value.
Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel Collector 1937-D:
Some counterfeit coins; real coins are known to lack the front leg, and run of water that appears to trail along the buffalo’s belly.
In coin assessment, it would be prudent to consult numismatic experts or to consult high-ranking guides on the coins.
Value Estimates for 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel:
Grade | Estimated Value |
---|---|
G4 | $200 – $500 |
VG8 | $500 – $1,000 |
F12 | $1,000 – $2,000 |
VF20 | $2,000 – $3,000 |
XF40 | $3,000 – $5,000 |
AU50 | $5,000 – $8,000 |
MS60 | $8,000 – $15,000 |
MS65 | $15,000 – $52,995 |
MS66 | $52,995 – $121,750 |
MS67 | $121,750 and above |
One such interesting example in the world of coin collecting is the 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo nickel. Its unique error and rarity make it a highly prized possession among collectors and a significant part of numismatic history.
Conclusion:
The 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo nickel is one of the most fantastic treasures in numismatics. Its rareness and uniqueness due to a fault have made it an asset to many collectors.
If you have this coin, be it might be valuable depending on how perfectly it is. In a first place, it is important that it is identified and its authenticity established so that the value may be estimated quite accurately.
Ultimately, this coin is not just a treasure from history for any collector but an invaluable gem within the numismatic world.
FAQS:
What caused the error in the 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo nickel?
The error occurred when an old reverse die was polished too heavily, which had removed the buffalo’s front leg and weakened the back leg.
How to identify a real 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo nickel?
Examine the coin’s reverse side for a lack of the buffalo’s front leg and the weakness of the back leg. A “stream” running down the buffalo’s belly is also characteristic.
A 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo nickel is what amount?
Value depends upon condition. With a normal-grade specimen, $350 to $1,950 may be available. In its high grades-MS66 the value can shoot up to a value of up to $52,995.