1927 Buffalo Nickel Value Guide: What Your Coin Is Worth Today

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The significantly lower mintage figures for the Denver and San Francisco coins make them more valuable, particularly in higher grades, compared to the Philadelphia issues.

<span>1927 Buffalo Nickel Value Based on Condition</span>

<div class="section-header__body">The condition (grade) of your coin is one of the most significant factors affecting its value. Buffalo Nickels are graded on a scale from Poor (P-1) to Perfect Mint State (MS-70).</div>

Understanding Coin Grading

Before looking at specific values, it’s important to understand the basic grading categories:

• Circulated Grades (P-1 to AU-58): Coins showing wear from circulation
• Uncirculated Grades (MS-60 to MS-70): Coins with no wear from circulation

For Buffalo Nickels, key details to examine include:

1927 Buffalo Nickel Value Chart (No Mint Mark - Philadelphia)

The Philadelphia mint produced the most 1927 Buffalo Nickels, making them the most common. Here’s what they’re typically worth:

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1927-D Buffalo Nickel Value (Denver)

With a mintage of only 5.73 million, the Denver mint coins are considerably scarcer and more valuable:

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1927-S Buffalo Nickel Value (San Francisco)

The San Francisco mint produced the fewest 1927 Buffalo Nickels, making them the most valuable in most grades:

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<span>Valuable Error Varieties of the 1927 Buffalo Nickel</span>

<div class="section-header__body">Error coins can be worth substantially more than their regular counterparts. Several error varieties exist for the 1927 Buffalo Nickel that collectors actively seek.</div>

Double Die Obverse (DDO)

The 1927 Double Die Obverse error shows doubling in the date and sometimes in the lettering of “LIBERTY” and the Native American’s features. This error occurs during the die manufacturing process when multiple impressions are made at slightly different angles.

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1927-S DDO (San Francisco Double Die)

The San Francisco mint also produced a Double Die Obverse variety that shows more dramatic doubling than the Philadelphia version. These are quite rare and can command substantial premiums.

In a 2019 auction, a 1927-S DDO Buffalo Nickel in MS-63 condition sold for $840, demonstrating the significant premium these error coins can achieve.

Repunched Mint Marks

Some 1927-D and 1927-S nickels show evidence of repunched mint marks, where the “D” or “S” was stamped multiple times at slightly different positions. These varieties typically sell for 20-50% more than standard examples in the same grade.

Die Cracks and Cuds

Late-stage die cracks and cuds (raised areas of metal where a piece of the die has broken away) can add a 10-30% premium to the coin’s value, depending on the size and location of the error.

<span>Recent Auction Results for 1927 Buffalo Nickels</span>

<div class="section-header__body">Examining recent auction results provides valuable insights into the current market for 1927 Buffalo Nickels, especially for high-grade examples.</div>

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These auction results demonstrate the significant premium that high-grade examples and error coins can command in today’s market. For the most common Philadelphia mint coins, the jump in value from MS-65 to MS-67 is particularly dramatic, illustrating the importance of quality within the uncirculated grades.

<span>Factors That Affect Your 1927 Buffalo Nickel&#39;s Value</span>

<div class="section-header__body">Beyond the basic mint mark and condition, several other factors can significantly impact what your 1927 Buffalo Nickel is worth.</div>

1. Strike Quality

The quality of the strike can vary considerably among 1927 Buffalo Nickels. Coins with a strong, crisp strike that shows full detail in the buffalo’s horn and the Native American’s hair features will command a premium over weakly struck examples.

2. Original Surfaces

Buffalo Nickels with original surfaces and natural toning are preferred by collectors over coins that have been cleaned, polished, or chemically altered. Cleaning can reduce a coin’s value by 50% or more.

3. Full Horn Detail

On the reverse of the Buffalo Nickel, the horn of the buffalo is a key focal point. Coins with a complete horn that shows full detail (known as “Full Horn” examples) can sell for 20-100% more than those with worn or weakly struck horns.

4. Luster Quality

For uncirculated coins, the quality and completeness of the mint luster significantly impacts value. Coins with full, cartwheel luster are worth more than those with dull or incomplete luster.

5. Professional Certification

Coins that have been authenticated, graded, and encapsulated by respected third-party grading services like PCGS or NGC typically command higher prices than ungraded examples, especially in higher grades where authenticity and accurate grading are crucial.

<span>Tips for Collecting 1927 Buffalo Nickels</span>

<div class="section-header__body">If you&rsquo;re interested in collecting 1927 Buffalo Nickels or building a larger Buffalo Nickel collection, here are some helpful tips.</div>

Starting Your Collection

If you’re new to collecting Buffalo Nickels, consider these approaches:

Authentication and Grading

For more valuable examples, especially those in high grades or with potential errors, consider these guidelines:

1. Third-Party Grading: For coins potentially worth over $100, professional grading from PCGS or NGC is often worth the investment.

2. Authenticity Verification: Counterfeit Buffalo Nickels exist, particularly of key dates and mint marks. Professional grading services can verify authenticity.

3. Proper Storage: Use acid-free holders, not PVC-containing flips which can damage coins over time.

Where to Buy 1927 Buffalo Nickels

Reputable sources for purchasing 1927 Buffalo Nickels include:

One of the largest numismatic auction houses with frequent offerings of Buffalo Nickels.

A major online coin retailer with a wide selection of Buffalo Nickels in various grades.

Online marketplace connecting coin buyers and sellers with Buffalo Nickel listings.

Large selection but requires careful evaluation of seller ratings and return policies.

<span>Preserving Your 1927 Buffalo Nickel&#39;s Value</span>

<div class="section-header__body">Once you&rsquo;ve acquired a 1927 Buffalo Nickel, proper preservation is essential to maintaining its value over time.</div>

Storage Recommendations

To preserve your coin’s condition and value:

1. Use proper holders: Non-PVC, acid-free coin holders, flips, or albums designed specifically for coins.

2. Avoid handling: When necessary, hold coins by their edges and consider using cotton gloves.

3. Control environment: Store in a cool, dry place with stable temperature and humidity.

4. Never clean your coins: Cleaning almost always reduces a coin’s value, even if it makes the coin look “better” to the untrained eye.

5. Consider slabbing: For valuable specimens, professional encapsulation (“slabbing”) by PCGS or NGC provides protection and authentication.

The mint mark on a 1927 Buffalo Nickel is located on the reverse (buffalo) side, directly below the denomination "FIVE CENTS." If your coin was minted in Denver, you'll see a small "D" in this location. If it was minted in San Francisco, you'll see a small "S." Philadelphia-minted coins do not have a mint mark.

To determine if your 1927 Buffalo Nickel is particularly valuable, check these key factors:

Mint mark (D and S are worth more than no mint mark)
Condition (higher grades are more valuable)
Strike quality (look for full horn detail on the buffalo)
Error varieties (look for doubling in the date or lettering)
Original surfaces (uncleaned coins are worth more)

Coins in uncirculated condition or with rare error varieties can be worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars.

The most valuable 1927 Buffalo Nickels are the highest-grade examples from the San Francisco mint (1927-S). A 1927-S Buffalo Nickel in pristine Mint State (MS-67) condition can be worth $35,000 or more. Among error varieties, the 1927-S Double Die Obverse can command significant premiums, with examples in MS-63 condition selling for around $840 or more.

No, the 1927 Buffalo Nickel does not contain any silver. It is composed of 75% copper and 25% nickel, giving it a silver-like appearance. The U.S. Mint did not use silver in the composition of five-cent pieces (nickels) during this period. The only U.S. nickels that contained silver were the "War Nickels" produced from mid-1942 to 1945.

The most notable error on 1927 Buffalo Nickels is the Double Die Obverse (DDO) variety, particularly on San Francisco-minted coins. This error shows doubling in the date, "LIBERTY," and sometimes in the Native American's features. Other errors include repunched mint marks (especially on D and S coins) and die cracks/cuds that formed as the dies wore out during the minting process.

To determine authenticity of a 1927 Buffalo Nickel:

Check the weight (should be 5.0 grams)
Examine the design details under magnification
Look for the correct font style and positioning
Verify the edge is plain (not reeded)
Use a magnet (real nickels are not magnetic)

For valuable specimens, consider professional authentication through PCGS or NGC, especially for high-grade or error coins where the financial stakes are higher.

The date on Buffalo Nickels is frequently worn off because it was one of the highest points of the design and the first area to wear down during circulation. Additionally, the date was not recessed or protected in any way, making it particularly vulnerable to wear. This is why clearly dated Buffalo Nickels, even in lower grades, often command a premium over examples with worn dates.

<span>External Resources for Buffalo Nickel Collectors</span>

<div class="section-header__body">These trusted resources provide additional information on Buffalo Nickels and coin collecting in general.</div>

Detailed pricing information and historical context for 1927 Buffalo Nickels.

Comprehensive guide with values for different grades and mint marks of 1927 Buffalo Nickels.

Professional grading service information on Buffalo Nickels with auction records and price guides.

Pricing information, photos, and historical context for 1927 Buffalo Nickels.

Industry-standard pricing guide used by dealers for Buffalo Nickel valuations.

Population reports, auction records, and detailed coin information from a leading grading service.

Comprehensive guide to the 1927 Buffalo Nickel with values and collecting tips.

Conclusion: Is Your 1927 Buffalo Nickel a Hidden Treasure?

The 1927 Buffalo Nickel represents an important piece of American numismatic history, blending artistic design with cultural significance. While most examples in circulated condition are worth between $1 and $15, premium specimens with the right combination of mint mark, condition, and striking characteristics can be worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars.

The key factors that determine your coin’s value are:

1. Mint mark: S-mint coins are generally the most valuable, followed by D-mint
2. Condition: Uncirculated coins bring significant premiums
3. Strike quality: Full horn detail adds substantial value
4. Error varieties: Double Die Obverse and repunched mint marks are particularly valuable
5. Original surfaces: Uncleaned, naturally toned coins are preferred

Whether you’re a seasoned numismatist or just discovered a 1927 Buffalo Nickel in an old collection, understanding these factors will help you accurately assess what your coin is truly worth in today’s market. For potentially valuable specimens, professional grading and authentication can provide peace of mind and potentially increase the coin’s marketability.

The Buffalo Nickel’s iconic American design continues to make it one of the most beloved and collected U.S. coins, ensuring that well-preserved examples will likely maintain or increase their value in the years to come.

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