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The 1927 Buffalo Nickel is worth anywhere from $1.50 in worn condition to over $150 in choice mint state. While most found in pocket change are common, identifying specific mint marks or high-grade specimens can significantly increase the payout you might receive from a local coin shop or online auction.
| Condition / Mint Mark | 1927 (P) No Mint Mark | 1927-D (Denver) | 1927-S (San Francisco) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Good (G-4) | $1.50 | $3.00 | $2.50 |
| Very Fine (VF-20) | $5.00 | $15.00 | $35.00 |
| Uncirculated (MS-63) | $55.00 | $165.00 | $650.00 |
Understanding the History of the 1927 Buffalo Nickel
The Buffalo Nickel, also known as the Indian Head Nickel, is one of the most iconic designs in American numismatic history. Designed by James Earle Fraser, it features a powerful portrait of a Native American on the obverse and an American bison on the reverse. By 1927, this design had been in circulation for 14 years, and the branch mints in Denver and San Francisco were producing them in varying quantities.
If you have discovered one of these in an old jar or a family collection, using a top coin identifier app is the quickest way to confirm you have an authentic piece. The 1927 release came during a period of relative economic stability before the Great Depression, meaning many were saved, but high-grade examples remain elusive.
When evaluating your coin, the first thing to check is the date and the readability of the word “LIBERTY.” Because the date was placed on a raised portion of the design, it tended to wear off quickly. A 1927 nickel with a clear, bold date is instantly more valuable than one where the numbers are fading into the rim. Using the CoinKnow app can help you zoom in on these fine details to determine the exact state of preservation.
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Identifying Mint Marks on 1927 Buffalo Nickels
To find the true market value, you must locate the mint mark. On the Buffalo Nickel, this is found on the reverse (the “tails” side) just below the words “FIVE CENTS” and the piece of ground the buffalo is standing on. If there is no letter there, your coin was minted in Philadelphia. If you see a small “D,” it’s from Denver; an “S” indicates it’s from San Francisco.
Your Old Coin Could Be Valuable!
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The Philadelphia mint produced nearly 38 million nickels in 1927, making them the most common variety. However, San Francisco produced only about 3.4 million, which makes the 1927-S a “semi-key date” that collectors actively hunt for. Even in lower grades, the “S” mint mark carries a premium because of this lower mintage.
| Mint Branch | Mintage Figure | Rarity Level |
|---|---|---|
| Philadelphia (No Mark) | 37,981,000 | Common |
| Denver (D) | 5,730,000 | Scarce |
| San Francisco (S) | 3,430,000 | Key Date / Rare |
Grading and the Impact on 1927 Nickel Prices
Coin grading is the process of determining how much wear a coin has sustained. For the 1927 Buffalo Nickel, collectors look specifically at the buffalo’s horn and the detail in the Native American’s hair. A “Good” grade nickel will look flat, while a “Mint State” nickel will have original luster and sharp details.
Your Old Coin Could Be Valuable!
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For those looking for accurate 1927 Buffalo Nickel price data, it is important to realize that the jump from a “Very Fine” to an “Uncirculated” grade can mean a difference of hundreds of dollars. Most casual finders will have “Average Circulated” coins, which are worth a few dollars, but it is always worth checking for that hidden gem.
If you are unsure about the grade, the CoinKnow app provides visual comparisons that make it easy for beginners to distinguish between a worn nickel and a high-value survivor. Remember, cleaning your coin will almost always destroy its numismatic value, so leave it in its original state until you’ve had it appraised.
The Rare and Valuable 1927-S Buffalo Nickel
The 1927-S is the star of the year. Due to its lower mintage of only 3.4 million, it is significantly harder to find than the Philadelphia or Denver strikes. In the world of coin collecting, supply and demand dictate everything, and there is always a high demand for San Francisco nickels from this era.
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While a common 1927 nickel might only buy you a snack at the gas station, a 1927-S in high grades can reach four-figure sums at specialized auctions. Collectors look for “full strikes,” where the buffalo’s tail and the horn are clearly defined. Many San Francisco strikes from this period were “mushy” or weakly struck, so a sharp 1927-S is extremely desirable.
| Grade | 1927-S Value Est. |
|---|---|
| About Uncirculated (AU-50) | $250 – $350 |
| Mint State (MS-60) | $450 – $550 |
| Gem Mint State (MS-65) | $3,500+ |
1927 Buffalo Nickel Errors to Look For
Error coins occur when something goes wrong during the minting process, and they can turn a regular nickel into a goldmine. For the 1927 series, keep an eye out for “Double Die” errors, where the lettering or the date appears to have a ghostly second image behind it. These are rare but can significantly bump up the price.
Another common error for nickels of this era is the “Lamination Error,” where the metal on the surface of the coin begins to peel or crack due to impurities in the alloy. While these aren’t always worth a fortune, they are highly collectible. You can find more 1927 Buffalo Nickel value information regarding error varieties through specialized numismatic databases.
Your Old Coin Could Be Valuable!
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Using CoinKnow allows you to scan your coin and compare it against known error databases. Sometimes what looks like a scratch to the naked eye is actually a rare minting mistake that collectors will pay a high premium for. Always inspect both the obverse and reverse under a magnifying glass or a high-quality camera lens.
Summary of What to Do With Your 1927 Nickel
If you’ve found a 1927 Buffalo Nickel, your first step should be to identify the mint mark. If it’s a Philadelphia (no mark) and heavily worn, it’s a great piece of history but likely only worth a couple of dollars. However, if you see a “D” or an “S,” or if the coin looks like it just came from the bank yesterday, you have something worth protecting.
Avoid the temptation to rub the coin with a cloth or use metal cleaner, as this leaves micro-scratches that professional graders at PCGS or NGC will spot instantly. Instead, place the coin in a PVC-free plastic holder or a simple cardboard “2×2” flip to preserve its condition while you decide your next move.
| Step | Action Item |
|---|---|
| Identify | Check for ‘D’ or ‘S’ mint marks on the back. |
| Evaluate | Use a coin app to estimate the grade. |
| Protect | Do NOT clean; store in a cool, dry place. |
| Sell/Store | Visit a local dealer or list on a reputable auction site. |
FAQ
Q: Why is the date so hard to see on my 1927 Buffalo Nickel?
A: The date on Buffalo Nickels was designed on a raised part of the Indian’s shoulder. Because it was physically “higher” than other parts of the coin, it rubbed against other coins and surfaces more often, wearing down quickly. Coins with no visible date are usually only worth a few cents.
Your Old Coin Could Be Valuable!
Identify It & Know Its Real Value — Free Download
Q: Is a 1927 Buffalo Nickel made of real silver?
A: No, Buffalo Nickels were never made of silver. They are composed of 75% copper and 25% nickel. Their value comes from their history and rarity among collectors, not from their melt value or metal content.
Q: How can I tell if my 1927 nickel is a proof coin?
A: The Philadelphia mint did not officially produce Buffalo Nickel proofs in 1927 for public sale. If you find a 1927 nickel that looks exceptionally shiny or “mirrored,” it is more likely a well-preserved business strike or a coin that has been polished (which actually lowers its value).
Q: Where is the best place to sell my Buffalo Nickel?
A: For common 1927 nickels, a local coin shop is the easiest route. For rare “S” mint marks or high-grade coins, consider professional auction houses like Heritage Auctions or eBay, provided you have clear photos and an accurate description.