ChanningTatum
In an astonishing twist of fate, a Buffalo Nickel once used to pay for a slice of pizza has just sold for $601,000.
This extraordinary coin, a 1918/7‑D Buffalo Nickel featuring a rare “overdate” error—where a “7” was stamped over the original “8”—is now one of the most valuable Buffalo Nickels ever recorded
Historical Context & Rarity
- Design & Composition: Minted between 1913 and 1938, the Buffalo Nickel features a Native American portrait on the obverse and an American bison on the reverse. Composed of 75% copper and 25% nickel, it weighs 5 g with a diameter of 21.21 mm
- Overdate Error: The specific variety, designated 1918/7‑D, is distinct because the date was mistakenly re‑punched—making this overdate extremely scarce
Value Explosion
Here’s how this coin’s value compares to other rare Buffalo Nickels:
| Year / Variety | Error Type | Auction Value | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1918/7‑D Buffalo Nickel | Overdate error (7 over 8) | $601,000 | Coin once used to buy a pizza slice |
| 1915 Proof Buffalo Nickel | Proof strike, PR69 grade | $240,000+ | One of 1,050 proof coins, near‑perfect condition |
| 1918/7-D overdate (other) | Overdate error | $350,750 | High-grade versions from earlier finds |
| 1917‑S Buffalo Nickel | Sharp strike, PCGS MS‑67 | $90,000 | Only one sold with sharp details $90K |
| 1916 double‑die error | Double‑die date details | $105,000 | Double‑die on date made it collectible |
Journey of the Coin
This Buffalo Nickel began life in everyday circulation—so ordinary that it was accepted as payment for pizza. Decades later, a sharp-eyed finder recognized the rare overdate detail, and the coin entered the numismatic spotlight.
It eventually sold at auction for the staggering sum of $601,000, setting a new high-water mark for buffalo nickel valuations
What Makes This Coin So Valuable?
- Error Rarity: The overdate (1918/7‑D) is highly uncommon and sought after.
- Condition: Even circulated pieces with visible overdates fetch high prices.
- Historical Appeal: The Buffalo Nickel design, by James Earle Fraser, is iconic and collectible.
- Low Population: Few surviving examples with clear overdates exist.
Various other Buffalo Nickels—such as 1915 proof coins or three‑legged errors from Denver—have made headline sales, but this pizza‑paid overdate stands out for its dramatic story and record price tag.
The story of the Buffalo Nickel once used to buy a pizza slice and later valued at $601,000 highlights the incredible journeys coins can take.
From everyday small change to numismatic legend, its value reflects a perfect storm of rarity, mint error, and historical appeal.
For collectors, this coin is a reminder: sometimes the most valuable treasures are hiding in plain sight.
FAQs
Why is the “overdate” in the coin’s date so important?
The overdate error (7 over 8) occurred when a previously dated die was reused incorrectly. This rare minting mistake makes coins like the 1918/7‑D highly collectible and extremely valuable
Could other Buffalo Nickels still be hiding in everyday change?
While millions were minted from 1913–1938, rare varieties such as overdates, double‑die errors, or three‑leg legs are limited. Finding one in circulation today is exceptionally unlikely but not impossible
What should someone do if they find a rare Buffalo Nickel in possession?
They should have it graded by a reputable service such as PCGS or NGC, which assigns a grade (up to MS‑70). High grades and documented errors can significantly raise its market value.