A Forgotten Treasure
In a small town in Ohio, a dusty piggy bank sat on a shelf in Clara Thompson’s attic for over 30 years. The ceramic pig, painted with faded flowers, held more than just loose change. Among the pennies and dimes was a 1937 Buffalo Nickel, a coin that would later shock Clara and her family. Clara, now 68, had received the piggy bank as a child from her grandfather, who loved collecting coins. She never thought much of it, assuming it was filled with ordinary change. Last month, while cleaning out her attic, Clara decided to crack open the piggy bank, curious to see what was inside.
A Coin with a Story
The Buffalo Nickel, designed by James Earle Fraser, was minted from 1913 to 1938. It features a Native American profile on one side and a buffalo on the other, capturing a piece of American history. Clara’s nickel, struck in 1937 at the Denver mint, caught her eye because it looked different from the other coins. Its sharp details and faint “D” mint mark stood out. Curious, she took it to a local coin shop, where the owner’s eyes widened. He explained that her nickel could be worth thousands due to its condition and rarity. Clara was stunned, as she had never considered the piggy bank held anything valuable.
The Value of Rarity
Coin collecting, or numismatics, is a hobby that fascinates many Americans. The value of a coin depends on its rarity, condition, and historical significance. The 1937-D Buffalo Nickel, especially one in pristine condition, is sought after by collectors. Some versions, like the rare “three-legged” variety caused by a minting error, can fetch over $50,000 at auction. Clara’s coin wasn’t the three-legged type, but its near-mint condition made it valuable. The coin shop owner estimated its worth at $8,000 to $10,000. Below is a quick look at what makes Buffalo Nickels valuable:
| Factor | Description |
|---|---|
| Mint Mark | Coins from Denver (D) or San Francisco (S) are often rarer |
| Condition | Less wear increases value |
| Year | Specific years, like 1937, are prized |
From Piggy Bank to Auction
Clara’s discovery sparked excitement in her family. Her son, Michael, a history teacher, researched the coin’s background and learned about its cultural significance. He encouraged Clara to contact an auction house specializing in rare coins. The auction house confirmed the nickel’s value and prepared it for a regional auction. Last week, the nickel sold for $9,200 to a private collector. Clara plans to use the money to fund a family vacation, something she hadn’t thought possible. The sale also inspired her grandchildren to start their own coin collections, hoping to find their own treasure one day.
A Lesson in Hidden Gems
Clara’s story reminds us that treasures can hide in plain sight. Everyday items, like a piggy bank, might hold surprises waiting to be uncovered. Coin experts suggest checking old change for rare dates or mint marks. Here’s what to look for in Buffalo Nickels:
| Tip | Details |
|---|---|
| Check Dates | Look for 1913, 1936, or 1937 |
| Mint Marks | Find “D” or “S” under the buffalo |
| Condition | Avoid coins with heavy scratches |
Clara’s find has also sparked local interest in coin collecting, with her story featured in the town newspaper. For Clara, the nickel was more than just money; it was a connection to her grandfather’s love for coins and a reminder to stay curious. Her advice? “Check your piggy banks. You never know what you might find.”