One of the Most Famous U.S. Coin Errors – The 1937-D “3-Legged” Buffalo Nickel is one of the most sought-after error coins in American numismatics, caused by excessive die polishing at the Denver Mint.
How the Error Happened – A mint worker over-polished a damaged reverse die, accidentally removing most of the buffalo’s front right leg, creating the distinctive “3-legged” appearance.
Mintage & Rarity – While the exact number is unknown, the error was discovered early in circulation, making high-grade examples scarce.
Common Counterfeits & Fakes – Due to its high value, many altered or fake versions exist. Genuine coins have strong die polish lines and proper mintmark placement.
Historical Significance – This coin is a highlight of the Buffalo Nickel series (1913–1938) and remains one of the most famous mint errors in U.S. history.
Collectibility & Demand – It’s considered a must-have for Buffalo Nickel collectors, driving high auction prices, especially for uncirculated specimens.
Market Trends & Price Performance – Values have steadily risen over decades, particularly for high-grade certified examples.
Where to Buy and Sell – Available through major auction houses (Heritage, Stack’s Bowers), reputable dealers, and certified by grading services (PCGS, NGC, ANACS) for authenticity.
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