In the world of rare coins, some stories are so unexpected they feel like modern myths. One such tale began with a pizza delivery and ended with a $601,000 payday — all thanks to an ordinary-looking Buffalo Nickel.
A Forgotten Coin That Made History
In 2007, a teenager in suburban Pennsylvania paid for a pizza using spare change. Among the coins handed to the driver was a worn Buffalo Nickel. Nothing about it screamed “valuable.” It was scratched, dull, and easily overlooked — and it was dropped into a change pouch like any other nickel.
But this was no ordinary coin.
The Discovery
Two weeks later, the nickel surfaced at a small coin shop. The shop owner, a veteran collector, noticed something strange: a faint, doubled date and an oddity in the buffalo design. Closer inspection revealed a major minting error — it was a 1918/7-D Buffalo Nickel, one of the rarest and most coveted coins in American numismatics.
This specific error occurred when the Denver Mint accidentally struck a 1918 date over a 1917 die, creating a visible overdate. Fewer than 200 examples are known to exist in collectible condition.
From Pizza Change to Auction Legend
After quietly passing through a few collectors, the coin made headlines in 2024 when it went to auction at Stack’s Bowers Galleries. Despite its wear, bidders were captivated by the coin’s backstory — a tale of chance, history, and overlooked value.
Final hammer price? $601,000.
Not just for its rarity, but for its journey — a humble nickel turned legendary artifact.
Now a Museum Treasure
Instead of hiding it away, the anonymous buyer loaned the coin to the American Numismatic Museum in Colorado Springs. Today, it rests behind protective glass, drawing visitors from all over. Kids press their faces to the exhibit, adults marvel at the story. It’s more than just a coin now — it’s a cultural relic.
Why Buffalo Nickels Still Matter
Minted from 1913 to 1938, Buffalo Nickels symbolize the rugged American spirit. With a Native American profile on the front and a buffalo on the back, they’re as iconic as they are collectible. Some, like the 1918/7-D, contain minting errors that transform them into treasures.
These “mistakes” are now masterpieces.
Could One Be Hiding in Your Home?
If a teenager once spent a $600K coin on pizza, what might you have sitting in your change jar? Coins like this often go unnoticed in drawers, jars, or glove compartments. While the odds are slim, the thrill of finding one is very real — and completely possible.
Final Thought
The story of the Buffalo Nickel reminds us that value isn’t always shiny or obvious. Sometimes, it’s hiding in plain sight. So next time you’re handed change, don’t just pocket it — inspect it.
History might be jingling in your hand.
FAQs
What is a 1918/7-D Buffalo Nickel?
It’s a rare error coin with the 1918 date stamped over a 1917 die. Only a few hundred are known to exist.
How much did the pizza Buffalo Nickel sell for?
It sold at auction in 2024 for an incredible $601,000.
Why is this coin so valuable?
Its worth comes from extreme rarity, historical error, and its unique, real-life backstory.
Where is the coin now?
It’s on display at the American Numismatic Museum in Colorado Springs.
Can I still find rare coins like this in circulation?
Yes! Rare coins have been found in everyday change. Always take a second look.
I have saved some rare coins for quite a while and I intend to have them valued.in my country we have no numistics, thereby other persons would be experiencing the same set back.
I almost lost them during our last hurricane, so I decided that I should use them towards my grand Children’s education, rather than risking losing them in some way or the other.
Please advice me on how to go forward regarding trading. Where posible.
Thanking you Kindly in advance.
I have a 1917 Buffalo Nickel
How much would it be worth right now 🤔