A Real $25,000 Coin You Might Already Own 
Forget the overhyped coin rumors online — this one’s 100% real!
A genuine 1913-S Type 2 Buffalo Nickel, graded PCGS MS-66, can sell for $25,000+ today. 
Let’s uncover what makes this historic coin so valuable — and how to tell if one’s hiding in your collection or family coin jar!
Why This 1913-S Buffalo Nickel Is So Valuable
Here are the key reasons collectors go wild for this nickel:
Key Date Rarity
- Only 1.2 million struck — the lowest mintage of the entire Buffalo Nickel series.
- Fewer than 100 coins survive in pristine Mint State condition.
Condition Premium
- MS-66 = near perfection — crisp, full details and brilliant luster.
- Look for sharp horn details
and a clean “LIBERTY” on the headband.
Historic Significance
- First year of the Buffalo Nickel series.
- Type 2 design: The buffalo stands proudly on a flat mound (not raised ground like Type 1).
How to Identify a $25,000 Buffalo Nickel
Before you rush to sell, make sure your coin checks these boxes:
Date & Mint Mark: Must read 1913-S
Design Type: Type 2 (buffalo on flat mound)
Weight: Exactly 5.0 grams
Grading: Certified MS-66 or higher by PCGS or NGC
Visual Inspection Tips
Use a magnifier (5× works great) and look for:
Obverse (Front): Full “LIBERTY” visible on the headband
Reverse (Back): Complete buffalo horn detail
Surface: No visible scratches or spots
Value by Grade
| Grade | Value Range  |
|---|---|
| Good (G-4) | $1,500 |
| Very Fine (VF-20) | $3,000 |
| Mint State (MS-63) | $15,000 |
| MS-66 |  $25,000+ |
Where These Coins Actually Sell
Heritage Auctions (2023): $23,500
Stack’s Bowers (2022): $24,100
Private Dealer Sales: $20,000–$25,000
Smart Collecting Tips
Be cautious of cheap listings — Buffalo Nickels “graded” below $15K are often altered or misrepresented.
Always verify certification numbers on the PCGS or NGC websites.
Use XRF metal testing if you suspect tampering or plating.
Quick Fun Fact
The 1913-S Type 2 design fixed a key flaw in the earlier “Type 1” coin — the word “FIVE CENTS” was prone to wear off too quickly!
Pro Tip
Before you spend or trade an old nickel, check your family’s coin jar — that $25,000 Buffalo Nickel could be sitting right there waiting to be discovered. 
