The value of a 1936 Buffalo nickel can vary significantly depending on several factors, including its condition, mint mark, and whether it has any rare errors.
Here’s a general overview:
- Circulated Condition: Most 1936 Buffalo nickels in average, circulated condition are worth a few dollars or less. Some sources indicate values ranging from $0.50 to $20 depending on the specific grade.
- Uncirculated Condition: Nickels in pristine, uncirculated condition can be worth much more, ranging from $10 to $20 for typical examples and significantly higher for exceptionally high-grade coins, [according to Bullion Shark] . Some can even reach thousands or tens of thousands of dollars, depending on the grade.
- Mint Marks: The value can also be influenced by the mint mark, which indicates where the coin was produced.
– Philadelphia (no mint mark): With the highest mintage of over 119 million, these are the most common. Their value in average circulated condition is around $1, rising to around $45 for high-grade specimens.
– Denver (D): These coins have a mintage of around 24.8 million. Their value in circulated condition can range from $0.50 to $32.50, and uncirculated examples can be worth as much as $30,000.
– San Francisco (S): With the lowest mintage of almost 15 million, these are scarcer. However, the lower mintage doesn’t always translate to higher value, especially in lower grades, possibly due to better die quality during production compared to the Denver mint.
- Rare Errors: Certain rare errors can significantly increase the value.
– 1936-D 3½ Legs: This error, caused by over-polishing of the die, results in a partially missing front leg on the buffalo. Even in poor condition, these can sell for $500 or more, and an MS63 example set an auction record of $20,700.
– Doubled Die Obverse (DDO): This error shows doubling of the date and Native American features and can be worth hundreds or even over a thousand dollars, depending on the grade and severity of the doubling.
– Repunched Mintmark (RPM): A repunched mintmark means the mintmark was accidentally struck twice. A notable example is the 1936-S/S, which can range from $34 in VF condition to $1,650 in MS65.
In summary
- Average circulated 1936 Buffalo nickels (no mint mark): Around $1 to $3.
- Average circulated 1936-D or 1936-S Buffalo nickels: Around $3 to $4.
- Higher grade, uncirculated coins: Can fetch hundreds or thousands of dollars, particularly those with mint marks.
- Rare errors like the 1936-D 3½ Legs or doubled die varieties: Can be worth a significant amount, potentially tens of thousands of dollars.
It’s recommended to consult a professional coin appraiser or use a reputable online guide to determine the precise value of your 1936 Buffalo nickel.
