In an astonishing turn of events, a rare 1918/7-D Buffalo Nickel was discovered inside a mason jar in a garden shed and later sold for a staggering $96,000 at auction.
This remarkable find has captivated coin collectors and enthusiasts alike, highlighting the enduring allure of rare coins and the unexpected places they can surface.
The Discovery
The coin was unearthed by a homeowner during a routine cleaning of their garden shed. Inside an old mason jar filled with assorted coins, the distinctive features of the 1918/7-D Buffalo Nickel caught the eye. Recognizing its potential value, the coin was submitted for professional grading and authentication.
What Makes the 1918/7-D Buffalo Nickel Special?
The 1918/7-D Buffalo Nickel is renowned for its overdate error, where the numeral “8” is stamped over a “7” in the date.
This minting anomaly occurred at the Denver Mint due to a die being repunched with the new date without fully erasing the previous year’s numeral. The result is a visible overlap that is highly sought after by collectors.
Key Features:
- Overdate Error: The “8” over “7” in the date is a prominent feature.
- Mint Location: Produced at the Denver Mint, indicated by the “D” mintmark.
- Design: Features a Native American profile on the obverse and an American bison on the reverse, designed by James Earle Fraser.
- Mintage: Approximately 100,000 coins were minted with this error, but few have survived in high-grade condition.
Auction Details
After authentication, the coin was consigned to a reputable auction house specializing in rare coins. The auction attracted significant attention, culminating in a final sale price of $96,000. This sale underscores the coin’s rarity and the high demand among collectors for such unique pieces.
Comparative Value
The value of the 1918/7-D Buffalo Nickel can vary significantly based on its condition:
| Grade | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| Good (G-4) | $1,500 – $2,500 |
| Fine (F-12) | $3,000 – $5,000 |
| Extremely Fine (EF-40) | $10,000 – $15,000 |
| Mint State (MS-60 to MS-65) | $20,000 – $100,000+ |
Note: Values are approximate and can fluctuate based on market demand and coin condition.
The Significance of the Find
Discoveries like this highlight the potential treasures that may lie hidden in everyday places. The 1918/7-D Buffalo Nickel serves as a reminder of the rich history encapsulated in coinage and the importance of careful examination of old coins.
The sale of the 1918/7-D Buffalo Nickel for $96,000 exemplifies the extraordinary value that rare coins can hold.
This discovery serves as an inspiration for collectors and enthusiasts to diligently examine their collections, as hidden treasures may be closer than one thinks.
FAQs
How can I identify a 1918/7-D Buffalo Nickel?
Look for the overdate error where the “8” is stamped over a “7” in the date. The coin should also have a “D” mintmark below the denomination on the reverse side.
Where can I get my coin authenticated?
Reputable coin grading services like the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) or the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC) offer authentication and grading services.
Are there other valuable Buffalo Nickels?
Yes, other notable examples include the 1937-D “Three-Legged” Buffalo Nickel and the 1916 Doubled Die Obverse Buffalo Nickel, both of which are highly prized by collectors.