
The 1936 US nickel is a valuable coin that's worth getting to know. It's a key date in the Buffalo nickel series, which ran from 1913 to 1938.
The 1936 US nickel is relatively rare, especially in high grades. This is due to the fact that many coins were circulated and worn down over the years.
To identify a 1936 US nickel, look for the date "1936" on the coin's reverse side. The coin's design features a Native American on the obverse and a buffalo on the reverse.
A well-circulated 1936 US nickel can still be worth something, but the value increases significantly with higher grades.
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Coin Identification
To identify a 1936 US nickel, look for the date on the reverse side, which is positioned between the two tails of the fish. The date is a key identifier for this coin.
A 1936 US nickel is made of a copper-nickel alloy, with a composition of 75% copper and 25% nickel. This composition is the same as other US nickels from this time period.
The coin's diameter is 21.21 millimeters, and its weight is 5 grams. These measurements are standard for US nickels.
The 1936 US nickel features a shield on the obverse side, with a building in the background. The shield is a classic design element for US coins.
Curious to learn more? Check out: 1906 V Nickel Coin Value
Grading and Rarity
Grading and rarity are crucial factors in determining the value of your 1936 US nickel. Most collectors use a standard grading scale with a ranking from 1 to 70 to evaluate their coins.
To give you a better idea, here's a quick rundown of the grading scale:
Rare 1936 nickel errors can also significantly increase their value, with some errors being pricier than standard flawless coins.
Grading
Grading is a crucial step in determining the value of a 1936 Buffalo Nickel. The condition of the coin plays a significant role in its overall worth, with higher grades commanding higher prices.
A standard grading scale is used to evaluate the condition of a 1936 Buffalo Nickel, ranging from 1 to 70. The grading scale is as follows:
The condition of a 1936 Buffalo Nickel can be categorized into several grades, including Uncirculated, Extremely Fine, Fine, and Good. An Uncirculated coin is one that was never used in circulation and retains its original surfaces with no signs of wear.
To determine the grade of a 1936 Buffalo Nickel, collectors can use the specifications provided by professional coin grading companies. The specifications include details about the condition of the coin, such as the presence of wear, scratches, and other blemishes.
3 ½ Legs
The 3 ½ Legs error on the 1936-D Buffalo Nickel is a rare and valuable find. This error occurs when the bison's front leg is weak or non-existent, making it a unique and sought-after coin.
You can spot these coins by comparing them to regular 1936-D nickels, where the difference is quite subtle. The most expensive 3 ½ Legs nickel ever sold was graded MS 63 and sold at an auction for $20,700 in 2009.
The value of these coins can vary greatly depending on their condition, with uncirculated pieces reaching up to $16,800 at auctions. Even circulated coins can fetch a pretty penny, with prices ranging from $350 to $7,500.
Here's a breakdown of the prices for 3 ½ Legs nickels in different grades:
These prices are a testament to the rarity and value of the 3 ½ Legs error on the 1936-D Buffalo Nickel.
Error Coins
Error coins are a fascinating aspect of numismatics, and the 1936 Buffalo Nickel is no exception. Some of these errors can increase the coin's value significantly.
The most common error is the 1936 D Buffalo Nickel 3 and ½ legs error, which was minted in high volumes. This error can sell for as much as $22,000.
The 1936 DDO Buffalo Nickel features double-die obverse errors, resulting in typos or misprints of digits or letters. These can be worth between $50 and $1200, depending on grading and quality.
Double die mistakes on the reverse of the coin, known as DDR Buffalo Nickel errors, can also increase its value. These errors can make the legend appear thicker at the top, and are worth between $100 and $1500.
Repunched mint marks (RPM) on the coin can also be valuable. The 1936 Buffalo Nickel RPM error #4, where the mint marks are punched twice, can be worth over $500 and even close to $1000.
Here's a quick rundown of some of the most common error coins:
Coin Study and Pricing
The value of a 1936 US nickel is determined by its condition and type. This means you'll want to examine your coin carefully to determine its grade.
A good starting point is to check the chart provided by CoinStudy, which lists the values for different grades of the 1936 nickel. The chart includes values for Good, Fine, Extremely Fine, and Uncirculated coins.
Here's a breakdown of the values for the 1936 nickel, based on the chart:
Keep in mind that these values are based on the condition and type of the coin, and may vary depending on other factors.
Other Features
The 1936 nickel is a fascinating coin, and its physical characteristics are just as interesting as its potential errors.
These coins weigh 0.176 ounces (5 g) and have a diameter of 0.835 inches (21.2 mm). Their edge is plain, and they are 0.077 inches (1.95 mm) thick.
If you're looking at a 1936 nickel, you might notice that it's a relatively small coin, but its thickness is still substantial.
The thickness of 0.077 inches (1.95 mm) is a notable feature, making it a bit heavier than you might expect from a coin of its size.
Coin Study Articles
The 1936 Buffalo Nickel is a highly collectible coin, with a total mintage of 158,745,420. This coin was produced in three different mints: Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco.
The value of a 1936 Buffalo Nickel depends on its condition, with uncirculated coins earning the highest "Mint State" ratings from certified coin grading services. Mint State coins are graded from MS60 to MS70.
Coins are graded on a 70-point scale, with 1 being so worn as to be almost unidentifiable and 70 being perfect, with no damage or blemishes visible even under magnification. The price of a 1936 Buffalo Nickel can range from $1 to $1,350, depending on its grade and condition.
Here's a breakdown of the prices for 1936 Buffalo Nickels in different grades:
The 1936-D Buffalo Nickel has a slightly higher price range, with prices ranging from $40 to $1,550. The 1936-S Buffalo Nickel has a moderate price range, with prices ranging from $1.13 to $1,125.
Some rare errors on the 1936 Buffalo Nickel can increase its value significantly. For example, the 1936 D Buffalo Nickel 3 and ½ legs error can sell for up to $22,000. Other errors, such as the double-die obverse error, can sell for between $50 and $1,200.
Overall, the value of a 1936 Buffalo Nickel depends on its condition, grade, and any rare errors it may have.
OMM
Overpunched mint marks can be very subtle, like the "D over S" on the 1936-D/S Buffalo Nickel, where the thicker "Five Cents" is a key clue.
The most visible clue for this variety is the thicker "Five Cents" compared to the regular 1936-D.
Explore further: Us Cents Value
Where to Sell Coins?
Selling your 1936 Buffalo Nickel can be done online through various websites. Check out Best Places To Sell Coins Online (Pros & Cons) for a list of options.
You can easily sell your coins online by checking out sites like the one mentioned in the article, which has a list of pros and cons to help you make an informed decision.
The article "Best Places To Sell Coins Online (Pros & Cons)" is a great resource to find the best places to sell your coins with minimal hassle.
To get started, visit the article "Best Places To Sell Coins Online (Pros & Cons)" and explore the options that suit your needs.
Selling your coins online can be a convenient and efficient way to get the best value for your 1936 Buffalo Nickel.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where's the mint mark on a 1936 Buffalo Nickel?
The mint mark on a 1936 Buffalo Nickel is located on the reverse side, under the "FIVE CENTS" legend. Check the back of your coin to spot it!
What is the error on the 1936 D buffalo nickel?
The 1936-D Buffalo nickel features a 3.5-legged error, a result of over-polished dies. This error is distinct from the 1937-D 3-legged nickel, where the entire leg vanished.
How do I know if my Buffalo Nickel is worth anything?
To determine if your Buffalo Nickel is valuable, look for its date, mintmark, and condition, focusing on wear and detail clarity. If you suspect your coin may be worth something, handling it carefully and learning more about its characteristics is a good place to start.
Sources
- https://www.coinvaluechecker.com/how-much-is-a-1936-buffalo-nickel-worth/
- https://www.coinstudy.com/1936-nickel-value.html
- https://bullionsharks.com/blog/how-much-is-a-1936-buffalo-nickel-worth/
- https://www.jmbullion.com/coin-info/nickels/buffalo-nickels/1936-buffalo-nickel/
- https://www.gainesvillecoins.com/blog/1936-buffalo-nickel-value
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