In a jaw-dropping turn of events, a shopper in the Midwest recently received a Buffalo Nickel in their grocery store change — and it turned out to be a coin worth $980,000. The lucky finder initially thought it was just an old nickel, but what they had unknowingly been handed was one of the rarest and most sought-after error coins in U.S. history.
Yes, this incredible piece of American history was still circulating nearly a century later, quietly slipping through hands — until someone finally recognized it for what it was.
The Buffalo Nickel: An American Classic
The Buffalo Nickel, officially known as the Indian Head Nickel, was minted from 1913 to 1938. It features the profile of a Native American on the obverse (front) and an American bison (buffalo) on the reverse. Designed by sculptor James Earle Fraser, it’s considered one of the most iconic and beautifully designed coins in U.S. history.
While many Buffalo Nickels are common and worth only a few dollars, certain dates, mintmarks, and error varieties are extremely rare and valuable — some commanding six-figure price tags.
So What Made This One Worth $980,000?
The coin discovered in the grocery store was not just any Buffalo Nickel — it was an ultra-rare 1918/7-D overdate error.
Here’s why it’s special:
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Overdate Error: The U.S. Mint accidentally punched the “1918” date over a previously struck “1917” on the die, creating a visible overlap of the two years.
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Minted in Denver: The “D” mintmark indicates it was struck at the Denver Mint, where this error occurred.
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Extreme Rarity: Only a small number of these overdate coins are known to exist, and most are in well-worn condition.
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Remarkable Find: This particular coin was in surprisingly strong condition for a piece that has been circulating for over 100 years.
Once verified by a professional grading service, the coin was authenticated, graded, and eventually sold to a private collector at auction for $980,000.
How Did It Stay in Circulation So Long?
It’s not unusual for older coins to resurface, especially nickels, which don’t draw as much attention as quarters or dollar coins. The Buffalo Nickel’s design stands out, but unless someone knows what to look for — like the overdate or mintmark — it can easily be mistaken for an ordinary collectible coin.
This one likely sat in a coin jar, a bank roll, or a collection that was unknowingly spent or donated — and somehow made its way back into everyday circulation.
How to Spot a Valuable Buffalo Nickel
If you’re lucky enough to come across a Buffalo Nickel in your change, take a closer look. Here’s what to check for:
1. Check the Date
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Look for key dates: 1913-S Type 2, 1916 doubled die, 1918/7-D, 1921-S, 1926-S, 1937-D “Three-Legged Buffalo”.
2. Look at the Mintmark
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Mintmarks appear below the words “FIVE CENTS” on the reverse.
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“D” (Denver) and “S” (San Francisco) mintmarks are often more valuable than Philadelphia (no mark).
3. Examine the Condition
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Coins in better condition (with visible date and strong details) are worth significantly more.
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Even worn Buffalo Nickels can fetch good money if they are rare varieties.
4. Use a Magnifying Glass
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Overdates and doubled dies are subtle and often missed without magnification.
What to Do If You Think You’ve Found One
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Handle it carefully — avoid touching the surfaces.
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Don’t clean the coin — cleaning can ruin its value.
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Take it to a professional coin dealer or get it certified by NGC or PCGS.
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Research before selling — rare coins are often undervalued by those unfamiliar with the market.
Final Thoughts
The story of the nearly million-dollar Buffalo Nickel found in grocery change is a reminder that history — and fortune — can appear when you least expect it. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just curious about your spare change, this incredible find proves that coins are more than currency — they’re artifacts of American heritage.
So next time you get a handful of coins from a cashier, take a moment to look closely.