we’ve analyzed thousands of 1927 Buffalo nickels to help you identify the rare varieties that can transform this common coin into a five-figure collectible. This comprehensive guide reveals exactly what makes certain 1927 nickels so valuable.
Key Value Factors
1. Mintmark Varieties & Mintage
| Mint | Mintage | Circulated Value | Uncirculated Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Philadelphia (no mintmark) | 37,981,000 | $1–$10 | $26–$4,250 |
| Denver (D) | 5,730,000 | $3–$400 | $194–$22,500 |
| San Francisco (S) | 3,430,000 | $2–$5,000 | $839–$72,500 |
2. Condition & Grading
| Grade | Philadelphia | Denver | San Francisco |
|---|---|---|---|
| Good (G-4) | $0.73 | $2.16 | $1.48 |
| Fine (F-12) | $1.84 | $6 | $5 |
| Extremely Fine (XF-40) | $9 | $55 | $66 |
| Uncirculated (MS-60) | $26 | $194 | $839 |
| Gem (MS-65+) | $85+ | $400+ | $5,000+ |
Ultra-Rare Error Varieties
1. 1927-S Double Die Obverse
- Value: $840–$5,000+
- Identification: Clear doubling on date and portrait
- Population: Only 4 AU58 examples certified
2. 1927-S Two Feather Variety
- Value: $100–$2,280+
- Feature: Missing third feather on headdress
- Rarity: Only known from San Francisco mint
3. 1927-P Curved Clip Error
- Value: $200+
- Appearance: 6% of planchet missing
- Condition: MS64 specimen sold for $200
Step-by-Step Authentication Guide
- Mintmark Identification
- No mark = Philadelphia
- “D” = Denver (below “FIVE CENTS”)
- “S” = San Francisco (most valuable)
- Condition Evaluation
- Check wear on buffalo’s horn and flank
- Examine date for clarity
- Look for luster in uncirculated examples
- Error Detection
- Use 10x magnification for:
- Doubled dies
- Planchet errors
- Strike mistakes
- Use 10x magnification for:
Where to Find Valuable 1927 Nickels
- Old Coin Rolls (Search original nickel rolls)
- Estate Sales (Look for coin collections)
- Coin Dealer Inventory (Ask for Buffalo nickels)
- Online Auctions (Search for errors/varieties)
Professional Grading Tips
- Photograph both sides under good lighting
- Compare to PCGS CoinFacts images
- Consider submission for coins worth $100+
- For errors, always get expert verification
Market Trends (2024 Update)
- High-grade S-mint coins up 30% since 2020
- Error varieties gaining collector interest
- Registry set demand increasing values
- Original toned examples commanding premiums
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