A Pizza Night with Hidden Value
The journey of one seemingly ordinary Buffalo Nickel has shocked coin collectors and the public alike, starting with a late-night pizza purchase and ending up as a six-figure exhibit in a prominent U.S. museum.
Buffalo Nickel That Paid for Pizza
In 2007, a Pennsylvania teenager paid for a pizza using loose change, unknowingly handing over a coin that would later capture national attention. Among the mix of quarters, dimes, and pennies was a worn Buffalo Nickel—an iconic coin minted between 1913 and 1938. The nickel was overlooked by the delivery driver and entered general circulation, unaware of its future significance. Its story seemed to be ending until it was discovered in the cash drawer of a small coin shop just two weeks later.
A Collector’s Eye Changes Everything
The coin shop owner, while sorting through daily change, noticed something unusual about this particular nickel. Though its date was faint, distinct features stood out, such as the positioning of the buffalo, a visible overdate, and subtle doubling on the reverse. A closer inspection and some research revealed that it was a rare 1918/7-D Buffalo Nickel—an error coin with a remarkable overdate, where the year 1918 had been struck over a 1917 die. With fewer than 200 well-preserved examples, it’s one of the most coveted coins in the Buffalo Nickel series.
The Auction That Shocked the Coin World
In 2024, after changing hands among private collectors, the nickel was sold at an auction by Stack’s Bowers Galleries. Despite its worn condition, competitive bidding broke out, with both collectors and institutions eager to secure this historic coin. The final sale price astounded everyone: $601,000.
Experts attribute the high price not only to the coin’s rarity but also to the compelling narrative attached to it—a coin originally used to pay for pizza transforming into a valuable auction star. Stories like these are exactly what collectors crave.
Now a Museum Centerpiece
After the auction, the new owner—a private donor—loaned the coin to the American Numismatic Museum in Colorado Springs, where it is now on display in a climate-controlled exhibit. The museum proudly showcases the nickel with a plaque explaining its unexpected origins and impressive sale price. Visitors are drawn not only to its numismatic value but also to the fascinating randomness of its journey. The display has become one of the museum’s most popular exhibits.
Why It Captures So Many Imaginations
Buffalo Nickels have long been cherished in American culture. The coin’s design, featuring a Native American profile and an American bison, evokes pride and nostalgia. However, the story of the 1918/7-D overdate reminds us that valuable treasures can be hidden in plain sight—like sitting unnoticed in someone’s change jar or being used to pay for a simple pizza.
Final Thoughts
This tale highlights the hidden riches that may be circulating in everyday pockets, piggy banks, and drawers. While it’s unlikely that everyone will discover a six-figure coin, the story of the Buffalo Nickel that once bought a pizza serves as a reminder that history can often be found in the most unexpected places.
So, before you spend that old nickel, take a moment to inspect it—you never know what hidden treasure you might be holding.
FAQ
What makes the 1918/7-D Buffalo Nickel so rare?
The 1918/7-D Buffalo Nickel is rare due to a minting error where the 1918 date was struck over a 1917 die. Fewer than 200 well-preserved examples exist, making it highly sought after by collectors.
How much is a 1918/7-D Buffalo Nickel worth?
The value of a 1918/7-D Buffalo Nickel depends on its condition. In 2024, one sold for $601,000 at auction, demonstrating the high price this rare coin can fetch.
Can I find valuable coins like this in my change?
While it’s unlikely, coins like the 1918/7-D Buffalo Nickel can sometimes be found in everyday circulation. Always check your change for rare or valuable coins, as they might be worth far more than their face value.
Where can I see the 1918/7-D Buffalo Nickel on display?
The 1918/7-D Buffalo Nickel is currently on display at the American Numismatic Museum in Colorado Springs, where it is part of an exhibit detailing its remarkable journey and sale.
