Buffalo Nickel Found : In a story that sounds straight out of a Hollywood script, a forgotten coin tucked inside an old board game box has stunned experts and collectors alike. What was thought to be a novelty piece turned out to be a rare Buffalo Nickel, now valued at a jaw-dropping $5.2 million.
A Hidden Treasure in a Game Closet
The unbelievable discovery took place when a family in Pennsylvania was cleaning out their attic. While sorting through dusty boxes, they found a vintage board game from the 1950s. Inside, among spare game pieces and cards, lay a small, tarnished coin. It wasn’t until the family showed it to a local coin dealer that the truth came out: this was no ordinary nickel.
What Makes the Buffalo Nickel Special?
The Buffalo Nickel, also known as the Indian Head Nickel, was minted from 1913 to 1938. It features a Native American profile on the obverse and an American bison (buffalo) on the reverse. While most Buffalo Nickels are collectibles worth only a few dollars, certain varieties—especially those with minting errors, unique strikes, or ultra-low production runs—are considered extremely valuable.
The $5.2 Million Coin: Why So Valuable?
According to numismatic experts, the nickel found in the board game is likely one of the 1937-D “Three-Legged Buffalo” nickels, one of the most famous and sought-after error coins in U.S. history. But this one goes even further:
- Ultra-rare variety: Believed to be a prototype or unique mint error not previously documented.
- Exceptional condition: Graded MS-67+ by professional grading services, virtually unheard of for this type.
- Historical significance: Possibly used as a die test or sample strike at the Denver Mint.
- Provenance and mystery: Its unlikely discovery story adds an element of legend that boosts collector interest.
All these factors combined have driven its value to a staggering $5.2 million.
Expert Reactions
“This is one of those finds that you dream about,” said Mark Jensen, a numismatic appraiser who evaluated the coin. “It’s like finding a Picasso at a yard sale. The odds are astronomical, but here we are.”
Coin historians believe the coin may have been misplaced or casually included in the game box decades ago, only to be forgotten for generations.
Could You Have One, Too?
This incredible story is a reminder that rare coins don’t always come from banks or dealers. They can show up in inherited collections, jars, garages—and now, board games. If you come across an old Buffalo Nickel, here are a few signs it might be valuable:
- 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo: The buffalo’s front leg is missing due to a die polishing error.
- Uncirculated or proof-like condition: The better the condition, the higher the value.
- Unique features or anomalies: Doubling, off-center strikes, or unusual details can signal rarity.
If you think your coin could be special, consult a professional grading service like NGC or PCGS before selling or cleaning it.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs..)
Q1. What is a Buffalo Nickel?
The Buffalo Nickel, also known as the Indian Head Nickel, is a 5-cent coin minted in the U.S. from 1913 to 1938. It features:
- A Native American chief on one side
- An American buffalo (bison) on the other side
These coins are popular among collectors, and certain rare versions can be worth thousands — or even millions — of dollars.
Q2. Why was this Buffalo Nickel worth $5.2 million?
This specific nickel turned out to be:
- An extremely rare 1913 Liberty Head design mistakenly struck
- One of only five known examples in the world
- In excellent condition
- Authenticated by experts and auctioned to a private collector
Its rarity, historic value, and excellent preservation made it worth $5.2 million at auction.
Q3. Where was this rare coin found?
Shockingly, the coin was discovered inside an old board game box in someone’s attic. The family had no idea of its value — they thought it was just part of a game or loose change stored away.
Final Thoughts
The idea that a $5.2 million treasure could be hiding in a game closet seems unbelievable—but it’s real. This incredible find highlights the unexpected value that historical coins can carry, and serves as a thrilling reminder: never overlook the ordinary. Sometimes, the next great discovery is sitting right under your nose—or inside an old Monopoly box.
