If you own a 1927 Buffalo nickel, it might be worth more than pocket change—some rare varieties can sell for over $70,000 at auction! 🔥
In this guide, we’ll break down the mintmark varieties, conditions, and rare errors that separate ordinary nickels from five-figure treasures.
🏛️ Key Value Factors
1️⃣ Mintmark Varieties & Mintage
The 1927 Buffalo nickel was struck at three U.S. Mints: Philadelphia (no mintmark), Denver (D), and San Francisco (S).
| 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 |
👉 The 1927-S is the rarest and most valuable, especially in high grades.
2️⃣ Condition & Grading
Grading is the #1 factor in determining value.
| 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+ |
⭐ Tip: Look at the buffalo’s horn and date clarity—they’re the first spots to show wear.
💎 Ultra-Rare Error Varieties
Some 1927 nickels are worth even more because of striking mistakes:
🔹 1927-S Double Die Obverse
- Value: $840 – $5,000+
- Identification: Clear doubling on the date and Indian’s profile
- Rarity: Only 4 AU58 examples known
🔹 1927-S Two Feather Variety
- Value: $100 – $2,280+
- Feature: Missing the third feather on the Native American’s headdress
- Rarity: Exclusive to San Francisco mint
🔹 1927-P Curved Clip Error
- Value: $200+
- Feature: About 6% of the planchet missing
- Auction Record: MS64 specimen sold for $200
🔍 Step-by-Step Authentication
✅ Mintmark Check:
- No mark = Philadelphia
- “D” = Denver (below “FIVE CENTS”)
- “S” = San Francisco (most valuable)
✅ Condition Check:
- Look at buffalo’s horn, flank, and date
- Uncirculated coins show strong luster
✅ Error Check:
- Use a 10x loupe to spot doubled dies or clipped planchets
🛠️ Where to Find 1927 Buffalo Nickels
- 🪙 Old coin rolls from banks
- 🏠 Estate sales & inherited collections
- 🛒 Coin dealer inventories
- 💻 Online auctions (watch for certified examples)
📈 Market Trends (2024 Update)
📌 1927-S high-grade coins have risen 30% since 2020
📌 Error varieties are gaining collector demand
📌 Original toned nickels now bring strong premiums
📌 Registry collectors push prices higher for top-graded coins
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