Sometimes, the most amazing treasures show up in the most unexpected places. That’s exactly what happened with one special coin—a rare Buffalo Nickel that once paid for a pizza but later sold for a massive $601,000. Let’s take a look at the surprising journey of this tiny piece of history.
A Forgotten Coin
Back in 2007, in a quiet suburb in Pennsylvania, a teenager was just trying to buy some late-night pizza. He grabbed some loose change from his pocket and handed it over to the delivery guy—just a few regular coins, or so it seemed. But hidden in that small pile was an old, worn Buffalo Nickel. The delivery driver didn’t notice anything special and just tossed it into his coin pouch. No one knew at that moment that this little coin was worth more than a car… or even a house.
A Lucky Find at a Coin Shop
Two weeks later, the nickel ended up in a small coin shop. The shop owner, who had seen thousands of coins in his lifetime, noticed something odd. The date on the coin was almost gone. But the buffalo design on the back looked strange. He saw some doubling in the image, which is a big clue for collectors.
After a closer look, he realized what he had—it was a rare 1918/7-D overdate Buffalo Nickel. This error happened when the U.S. Mint accidentally stamped the number 8 over a 7. Only about 200 of these coins are known to still exist. Even though the coin was worn, it was still incredibly rare.
A Collector’s Dream
The 1918/7-D overdate is one of the most famous error coins in American history. Mistakes like this happen when old coin dies are reused or repurposed. Most of the time, these errors are caught early. But a few make it into circulation.
This Buffalo Nickel wasn’t just rare. It told a story—about minting mistakes, American history, and a coin’s journey through time.
Sold for $601,000
After years in private collections, the coin finally went up for auction in 2024. It was sold by Stack’s Bowers Galleries, a famous name in the coin world.
At first, the bidding was slow. But the story of the pizza coin captured people’s attention. The price kept going up… until the final bid hit a shocking $601,000. People weren’t just buying metal—they were buying the story behind it.
A Gift to the Public
The buyer chose to remain anonymous, but they made a kind decision. Instead of locking the coin away, they loaned it to the American Numismatic Museum in Colorado Springs.
Now, the rare Buffalo Nickel is on display behind glass, with soft lighting and a story plaque nearby. Visitors, young and old, come to see the little coin that once bought a pizza.
Why Buffalo Nickels Are So Special
Buffalo Nickels were made from 1913 to 1938. On one side, they show a Native American. On the other side, a big American buffalo. These coins are loved for their bold design and connection to early American history.
But some, like the 1918/7-D, are even more special because of minting mistakes. These rare versions can be worth thousands—or even hundreds of thousands—of dollars.
Could You Have One?
This story makes you wonder—what’s hiding in your own change jar? Could you have a rare coin sitting in your drawer or wallet right now?
It’s totally possible. Rare coins have been found in everyday pockets, old piggy banks, and car seats. It only takes a moment to look.
Final Thoughts
This Buffalo Nickel’s journey—from a pizza night to a museum—teaches us something powerful. Big value doesn’t always look shiny or important. Sometimes, it hides in plain sight.
So next time you get change at the store, take a second look. Your next coin might just have a secret waiting to be discovered.
FAQs
What is a 1918/7-D Buffalo Nickel?
It’s a rare error coin with the number 8 stamped over a 7. Only a few hundred exist.
How much did the pizza coin sell for?
It sold for $601,000 in 2024.
Why is it so valuable?
Because it’s rare, has a unique story, and is an important part of U.S. coin history.
Where is it now?
It’s on display at the American Numismatic Museum in Colorado Springs.
Can I find rare coins in my pocket?
Yes! Always check your change—you never know what you might find.
