The 1936-D 3-1/2 Legs Buffalo Nickel is a rare and fascinating error coin in U.S. history. Minted at the Denver Mint, this nickel showcases an unusual mistake – the bison (or buffalo) on the reverse side appears to have only three and a half legs. This oddity makes it a highly sought-after collectible among coin enthusiasts. But how did this happen, and why is it so valuable? Let’s dive into the strange story behind this unique coin and its impressive worth in today’s market.
Why Does the 1936-D Buffalo Nickel Have 3 and a Half Legs?
In 1936, around 24 million nickels were minted at the Denver branch of the U.S. Mint. Out of this large batch, only a small number (approximately 300) ended up with a major design flaw—the bison on the reverse side was left with only 3 and a half legs. This error was caused by excessive polishing of the coin die, the tool used to stamp the design onto the coin. During the process, some of the finer details of the bison’s front leg were accidentally polished away, leaving only the hoof visible.
Though mint workers often polished dies to remove scratches or imperfections, this over-polishing resulted in the famous 3-1/2 legs variety. Despite the mistake, the coin was still released into circulation, and collectors soon noticed the error.
The Difference Between 1936-D 3-1/2 Legs and 1937-D 3-Legged Buffalo Nickels
It’s important not to confuse the 1936-D 3-1/2 Legs Buffalo Nickel with the 1937-D 3-Legged Buffalo Nickel. Both of these coins were struck at the Denver Mint, but the 1937 version has an entirely missing front leg, whereas the 1936-D shows part of the leg with only the upper section removed. The 1937-D coin’s error was also caused by over-polishing, but it is a different variety altogether.
How Rare is the 1936-D 3-1/2 Legs Buffalo Nickel?
There are believed to be around 300 examples of the 1936-D 3-1/2 legs Buffalo Nickel known today. However, this number may be slightly inflated due to some coins being submitted multiple times for grading. While not as well-known as some other Buffalo Nickel varieties, like the 1916 doubled die obverse (DDO), it still stands out as one of the rarest and most valuable nickels.
Value of the 1936-D 3 and a Half Leg Buffalo Nickel
The 1936-D 3-1/2 Legs Buffalo Nickel is considered a key coin in the Buffalo nickel series. Its value varies significantly depending on its condition, with better-preserved examples being worth much more. The coin’s grade is determined by its level of wear, surface condition, and overall appearance, with higher-grade coins fetching the most money at auctions.
Here’s a look at the recent price range for the 1936-D 3-1/2 Legs Buffalo Nickel:
| Grade | Price |
|---|---|
| G-4 | $500 |
| VG-8 | $675 |
| F-12 | $1,150 |
| VF-20 | $1,175 |
| XF-40 | $3,300 |
| AU-50 | $5,850 |
| MS-61 | $15,000 |
| MS-63 | $25,000 |
The highest recorded price for this coin was $25,000 in 2009, for a specimen graded MS-63. In September 2022, a coin graded XF-40 sold for $3,850 at auction, showing that demand for these error coins remains strong.
Why You Should Get the 1936-D 3-1/2 Legs Nickel Professionally Graded
Before buying or selling a 1936-D 3-1/2 Legs Buffalo Nickel, it’s essential to have the coin authenticated and graded by a professional service. Due to its rarity, this coin is often targeted by counterfeiters, and having it graded adds a layer of protection for both buyers and sellers. A graded coin also has higher investment potential, as the assigned grade significantly affects its value.
FAQ’s
How many 1936-D 3-1/2 Legs Buffalo Nickels exist?
Around 300 examples are believed to exist today, though this number may be inflated due to coins being submitted multiple times for grading.
What causes the 3-1/2 legs error?
The error was caused by excessive polishing of the coin die, which resulted in part of the bison’s front leg being worn away.
What is the value of a 1936-D 3-1/2 Legs Buffalo Nickel?
Depending on its condition, the coin’s value ranges from around $500 for a lower-grade example to $25,000 for a high-grade specimen.