The Buffalo Nickel That Sat in a Piggy Bank for 30 Years

Finding an old Buffalo nickel after three decades in a piggy bank can be exciting and a little confusing. This guide explains what to look for, how to protect the coin, and practical next steps for getting a correct value.

Why The Buffalo Nickel That Sat in a Piggy Bank for 30 Years Matters

The Buffalo nickel was minted from 1913 to 1938 and is a popular series among collectors. A coin that sat untouched for 30 years may have preserved original wear patterns, patina, or even a rare date or variety.

Even modestly rare dates or error varieties can add significant value compared with face value. The key is accurate identification and careful handling to avoid reducing its worth.

How To Identify The Buffalo Nickel That Sat in a Piggy Bank for 30 Years

Begin with simple visual checks. Look for the date on the obverse (front) under the Indian head and a mint mark on the reverse (back near the rim).

Use a magnifier or smartphone macro lens to inspect details like the date, mint mark, and the buffalo’s features. Note any unusual marks, doubling, or missing elements.

• Check date legibility — partial dates may still be identifiable with magnification.
• Look for mint marks: D (Denver), S (San Francisco), or none (Philadelphia).
• Scan the reverse for notable varieties like the 1937-D “three-legged” buffalo.

Assessing Condition and Value for The Buffalo Nickel That Sat in a Piggy Bank for 30 Years

Condition (grade) is the main driver of value. Grades range from Poor (P) to Mint State (MS). Most piggy bank finds will be in circulated grades, but exceptions occur.

Key indicators include high points of wear, remaining luster, and any surface damage such as scratches or cleaning marks. Avoid cleaning or polishing; that can reduce value significantly.

• Circulated: Smooth high points, little to no luster.
• About Uncirculated: Minor wear on high points, some original luster.
• Uncirculated/Mint State: Full detail with original luster and no wear.

How To Protect The Buffalo Nickel That Sat in a Piggy Bank for 30 Years

Handle the coin by its edge and use cotton gloves if available. Avoid touching surfaces with bare fingers to prevent oils and corrosion.

Place the coin in a soft, inert holder such as a Mylar flip, or a coin capsule for better protection. Do not store in PVC holders, as PVC releases chemicals that harm coins over time.

Steps to Get an Appraisal or Sell The Buffalo Nickel That Sat in a Piggy Bank for 30 Years

Follow a clear process to avoid mistakes and preserve value. Start locally and escalate to professionals if necessary.

1. Photograph the coin with natural light and a macro lens. Capture obverse and reverse.
2. Record the date, mint mark, and any visible varieties or errors.
3. Consult online price guides for current market ranges, but treat them as estimates.
4. Seek a reputable local coin dealer for an initial opinion. Get multiple quotes if possible.
5. If the coin appears rare or valuable, consider third-party grading by PCGS or NGC.

When To Consider Professional Grading for The Buffalo Nickel That Sat in a Piggy Bank for 30 Years

Use professional grading when the potential increase in sale price exceeds the grading and submission costs. Grading is especially useful for rare dates or collectible varieties.

Keep in mind grading takes time and there are fees. Prepare documentation and high-quality photos before submission.

Practical Tips and Common Mistakes

Many finders unintentionally reduce value by over-cleaning or rushing to sell. A cautious approach preserves options.

• Do not clean coins with chemical cleaners or abrasives.
• Do document the coin with photos before any handling or shipment.
• Do ask for a written offer when selling to a dealer and compare multiple offers.
• Don’t assume face value equals worth — several Buffalo nickels are collectible.

Small Case Study: A Piggy Bank Discovery

A homeowner emptied an old piggy bank and found a worn Buffalo nickel. The date was faint but identifiable as an uncommon variety. They photographed the coin and took it to two local dealers for opinions.

One dealer suggested a third-party grading before sale, while the other offered an immediate purchase price. After grading, the coin sold for a higher price than the initial offers, confirming the value of cautious appraisal.

Final Checklist for The Buffalo Nickel That Sat in a Piggy Bank for 30 Years

• Identify date and mint mark with magnification.
• Do not clean the coin; handle by the edge.
• Photograph both sides in natural light.
• Get dealer opinions and compare offers.
• Consider professional grading if the coin looks rare or valuable.

With a calm, methodical approach you can learn whether your Buffalo nickel is a modest keepsake or a collectible worth pursuing. Protect the coin, document it, and get informed opinions before making decisions.