The Buffalo Nickel That Sat in a Piggy Bank for 30 Years: Sometimes, the most ordinary things can hold surprising stories. This is exactly what happened with an old coin—specifically, a Buffalo Nickel—that had been resting quietly in a piggy bank for three long decades. What seemed like a small, forgotten coin turned out to be something worth talking about.
What Is a Buffalo Nickel?
A Buffalo Nickel is a five-cent coin that was made in the United States between the years 1913 and 1938. It is called a Buffalo Nickel because it features an image of an American bison, or buffalo, on one side. On the other side, there’s a Native American portrait. These coins are no longer made today, which makes them special for collectors.
The Coin Hidden for 30 Years
In one ordinary household, someone dropped a Buffalo Nickel into a ceramic piggy bank many years ago. Over time, it was forgotten. As years passed, the piggy bank remained untouched on a shelf, collecting dust, while the coin inside sat quietly. No one knew that this old nickel might be worth more than its face value.
The Surprise Discovery
One day, the piggy bank was finally opened, just out of curiosity. Among other coins, the Buffalo Nickel caught someone’s eye. It looked different from the rest. A quick internet search revealed that this wasn’t just any old coin—it was a vintage piece, possibly valuable to collectors. This sparked excitement and interest.
What Makes the Buffalo Nickel Valuable?
Not all Buffalo Nickels are rare or expensive, but some of them can be worth a lot. The value depends on the coin’s year, its condition, and whether it has any unique features or errors. Some versions, like the 1913-S Type 2 or the 1937-D “Three-Legged Buffalo,” are especially sought after by coin collectors.
The Coin’s Condition After 30 Years
Despite being stored in a piggy bank for so long, the Buffalo Nickel was in surprisingly good condition. There were no major scratches or signs of wear. This helped increase its potential value. Experts often look at a coin’s “grade,” which means how well it has been preserved over time.
Getting It Checked by Experts
To be sure about its value, the coin was taken to a professional coin dealer. They examined it carefully and identified the year and mint mark. These details helped them determine whether it was a common version or a rare one. While it wasn’t one of the rarest ever made, it was still worth much more than just five cents.
A Lesson in Simple Treasures
This little story shows us that valuable things can be hidden in the most unexpected places. An old piggy bank turned out to hold a small treasure. It reminds us that it’s always a good idea to check old coins and other items before throwing them away or forgetting about them.
Table: Buffalo Nickel Value Range
Here is a simple table showing the estimated value range of different Buffalo Nickels based on condition and rarity.
| Type of Buffalo Nickel | Estimated Value (USD) |
|---|---|
| Common Date, Worn Condition | $1 to $3 |
| Common Date, Good Condition | $5 to $20 |
| Rare Date (Ex: 1937-D Error) | $100 to $1000+ |
| 1913-S Type 2 (High Grade) | $5000 and above |
FAQs
What years were Buffalo Nickels made?
They were made from 1913 to 1938.
Can Buffalo Nickels still be used as money?
Yes, they are still legal tender, but their collector value is often much higher than five cents.
How can I tell if my Buffalo Nickel is valuable?
Check the date, mint mark, and condition. Rare dates or error versions can be worth more.
Where should I take my coin to check its value?
You can visit a local coin dealer or send it to a coin grading service for expert advice.