Rare 1917 S Buffalo Nickel – Could This Valuable Coin Be in Your Collection?

Ever stumbled upon an old coin and wondered if it’s worth more than spare change? If it happens to be a 1917-S Buffalo Nickel, you might just be in luck. This little five-cent piece could be your ticket to a major payday, especially if it’s been hiding in excellent condition. Let’s break down why this coin is such a big deal, how much it’s worth, and what to do if you find one.

Background

The 1917-S Buffalo Nickel comes from the Buffalo Nickel series, which ran from 1913 to 1938. It was designed by James Earle Fraser to capture the spirit of the American frontier. On the front, you’ll see the rugged profile of a Native American. Flip it over, and there’s a buffalo (technically a bison) standing on a mound. That’s some serious old-school American symbolism right there.

What makes the 1917-S stand out? It was minted in San Francisco—hence the “S” mintmark—and only 4.19 million were made that year. That might sound like a lot, but in coin world terms, it’s pretty scarce.

Rarity

Let’s be honest—rarity is the golden ticket when it comes to coin collecting. With just over 4 million made, and even fewer surviving in good shape, the 1917-S Buffalo Nickel is one of the tougher finds. Most coins from back then were heavily circulated, so high-grade examples are super rare.

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But that’s not all. Some versions even have minting errors like the “Two Feathers” variety, where one of the feathers on the Native American’s head is missing. Errors like that can drive up the price even more.

Value

So how much are we talking? Here’s a quick look at the coin’s potential value based on its condition:

One crazy example? A top-grade MS-67 sold for a jaw-dropping $90,000 at auction in 2023. That’s a serious return on five cents.

Features

Want to check if your coin is the real deal? Here’s what to look for:

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Date and Mintmark: “1917” on the front below the Native American’s neck. Flip it and find the “S” mintmark right under “FIVE CENTS.”

Design Details: You’ve got a proud Native American on one side and a bison on the other. Look for sharp detail in the feathers and buffalo fur—those mean better grades and higher value.

Special Varieties: If it’s missing part of a feather on the Native American’s headdress, you might have the rare “Two Feathers” error. These are highly collectible.

Storage

Found one? Great—now don’t mess it up. Here’s how to keep it in top shape:

• Don’t clean it—ever. Seriously, even wiping it can ruin the value.
• Use proper storage—coin flips, acid-free holders, or professional coin capsules work best.
• Handle carefully—only touch the edges, never the faces.

Selling

Ready to cash in? You’ve got a few solid options:

• Coin dealers: Stick with trusted dealers affiliated with professional groups like PNG or ANA.
• Auction houses: For high-value coins, go big with Heritage Auctions or Stack’s Bowers.
• Online platforms: eBay and GreatCollections can get your coin in front of a lot of eyes, but be prepared to research and price carefully.

Whether you’re new to coin collecting or a seasoned pro, the 1917-S Buffalo Nickel is one of those finds that makes the hunt worthwhile. With its low mintage, rich design, and the potential for serious value, it’s no wonder collectors are always on the lookout for this gem. So check your change jars, dig through those old coin albums, and who knows—you might be holding a five-cent treasure worth thousands.

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