Numismatic

1937-D 3-Legged Buffalo Nickel Fine

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The 1937-D Buffalo Nickel is home to one of the most famous and intriguing anomalies in American coinage. Minted in Denver, this particular variety is instantly recognizable by a striking characteristic on its reverse: the American bison, modeled after a famous animal named Black Diamond, appears to have only three legs. The front leg of the creature is missing, the result of a damaged or over-polished die during production, making this a highly sought-after curiosity for anyone fascinated by minting errors. Designed by James Earle Fraser, the coin features a powerful profile of a Native American on the obverse, accompanied by the year 1937. The reverse depicts the majestic bison standing on a raised mound. Legible inscriptions on this five-cent piece include the words UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, FIVE CENTS, and the Latin motto PLURIBUS UNUM, though on this variety, the motto is sometimes rendered with slight minting variations. This specific coin has been preserved in Fine condition, showing honest wear while clearly retaining the legendary three-legged feature that sets it apart.