Could a nickel in your pocket be worth nearly a million bucks? The Buffalo Nickel, made from 1913 to 1938, is stirring excitement with talk of a rare clipped planchet error possibly worth $940,000. Known for its Native American head on one side and a bison on the other, this coin is a collector’s favorite. Most are worth a few dollars, but a clipped edge could make one a jackpot. X posts are buzzing, with folks digging through change jars and old wallets, hoping to strike it rich on July 25, 2025.
What’s a Clipped Planchet?
A clipped planchet error happens when the metal blank used to make the coin is cut wrong, leaving a chunk missing from the edge—like a bite taken out. On Buffalo Nickels, this error is super rare and can boost value big time. A 1936-D clipped planchet nickel sold for $35,000 in 2023, but recent hype claims a perfect one could hit $940,000, though no auction has proven this yet. The size of the clip and the coin’s condition, like sharp details, make it a prize for collectors chasing American history.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Years Minted | 1913–1938 |
| Composition | 75% Copper, 25% Nickel |
| Weight | 5 grams (Normal), ~4-4.8 grams (Clipped) |
| Mint Marks | None (Philadelphia), D (Denver), S (San Francisco) |
| Top Auction Price | $35,000 (1936-D Clipped, 2023) |
| Rumored Value | Up to $940,000 (Unverified) |
Why Are They So Valuable?
Clipped planchet Buffalo Nickels are rare because they slipped past the U.S. Mint’s checks. Big clips, where 10-20% of the edge is gone, are the most sought-after, especially on coins in great shape (graded MS-60 or higher by PCGS or NGC). A 1935-S with a bold clip sold for $28,000 in 2022, showing their worth. The $940,000 figure may be hyped up on X, but other errors, like the 1937-D “Three-Legged” nickel (worth up to $50,000), prove these coins can fetch big money. Their link to America’s Wild West days adds extra charm.
Stories of Lucky Finds
Real people are finding these nickels in surprising spots. In 2024, a Georgia woman spotted a 1936 clipped planchet nickel in her dad’s old coin box, selling it for $22,000. A California teen found a 1927-D with a small clip in a bank roll, earning $15,000 at auction. X users share tales of checking vending machine change or grandma’s coin stash, dreaming of a big score. As the U.S. nears its 250th anniversary in 2026, Buffalo Nickels are hotter than ever, pushing collectors to hunt for rare errors.
How to Spot a Winner
Think you’ve got a valuable nickel? Here’s how to check:
- Check the design: Look for a Native American and bison with a date from 1913 to 1938.
- Examine the edge: A smooth, curved missing piece means a clipped planchet.
- Weigh it: Clipped coins are lighter, around 4-4.8 grams, not 5 grams.
- Look for mint marks: Find a D or S under “FIVE CENTS” for Denver or San Francisco.
- Use a magnifier: Check for clear clips or doubled dates for extra value.
- Get it checked: Take it to a coin shop or PCGS/NGC for a pro appraisal.
Don’t clean your coin—it can ruin its worth!
Start Your Treasure Hunt
The $940,000 price tag might be a stretch, but clipped planchet Buffalo Nickels can still bring thousands. With millions minted, some are hiding in change, bank rolls, or old collections. Other rare finds, like the 1918/7-D overdate (worth $100,000+), keep the hunt exciting. Grab a magnifying glass, check your nickels, and visit pcgs.com for grading tips. Your local coin dealer can help, too. That dusty jar or loose change might hold a Buffalo Nickel worth way more than five cents—start looking today!