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The 1918/7 Buffalo Nickel is one of the most celebrated overdate error coins in American numismatics, capturing the attention of collectors due to its rarity and historical significance. This overdate variety occurred when a die intended for the 1917 production year was repurposed for the following year’s coins at the Denver Mint. As a result, traces of the original “7” can still be seen beneath the “8” in the date on the obverse of the coin. This distinct minting error adds an extra layer of intrigue to a coin that is already popular due to its place in the Buffalo Nickel series. Graded as Very Good, this coin shows signs of circulation, but the overdate remains visible, making it a prized piece for collectors of error coins and U.S. coinage history alike.
The Buffalo Nickel, officially known as the Indian Head Nickel, was first introduced in 1913 and remained in circulation until 1938. Designed by James Earle Fraser, this coin is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful and iconic in American coinage. The obverse of the coin features the profile of a Native American, facing to the right. Fraser used the features of three different Native American chiefs to create this composite portrait, giving the figure a striking and dignified appearance. In the case of the 1918/7 Buffalo Nickel, the overdate error is clearly seen at the bottom of the obverse, where the date “1918” is inscribed. Despite the coin being in Very Good condition, the overdate is still noticeable to the trained eye, enhancing the coin’s appeal to collectors.
The reverse of the 1918/7 Buffalo Nickel showcases a powerful depiction of an American bison, often referred to as a buffalo, standing on a small mound. This reverse design is both artistic and symbolic, reflecting the country’s admiration for its rugged frontier and wildlife. Above the bison, the inscription “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” arcs along the top edge, while the denomination “FIVE CENTS” is displayed beneath the buffalo. In Very Good condition, the reverse typically shows moderate wear, particularly on the bison’s shoulder, legs, and tail. However, the main elements of the design, including the bison’s silhouette and the inscriptions, remain visible, adding to the coin’s enduring appeal.
The 1918/7 Buffalo Nickel was struck at the Denver Mint, as indicated by the “D” mintmark below the denomination on the reverse. The Denver Mint produced a total of 8,362,000 Buffalo Nickels in 1918, but only a fraction of these were affected by the overdate error, making the 1918/7-D variety particularly scarce and highly sought after by collectors. Error coins such as this one are especially valuable due to their rarity and the story behind their creation. In the case of the 1918/7-D, the overdate error occurred when a die intended for 1917 was repurposed for the next year, and the original “7” was not completely removed, leaving traces of the digit visible beneath the “8.”
The Buffalo Nickel series is celebrated for its blend of artistry and historical significance. James Earle Fraser, the designer, drew inspiration from his childhood experiences in the American West, as well as his admiration for the country’s Native American culture and wildlife. The image of the Native American on the obverse reflects Fraser’s respect for the country’s indigenous peoples, while the bison on the reverse symbolizes the untamed spirit of the American frontier. The 1918/7-D Buffalo Nickel, with its overdate error, stands out as one of the most interesting and desirable coins in this series. The rarity of the overdate, combined with the popularity of the Buffalo Nickel design, makes this coin a key date for collectors.
In Very Good condition, the 1918/7 Buffalo Nickel shows moderate wear from circulation, but the major design elements and the overdate are still discernible. While the finer details of the Native American’s headdress and the buffalo’s fur may be worn, the overall design remains clear and identifiable. The visibility of the overdate is the primary feature that makes this coin stand out. Even in a lower grade like Very Good, the overdate is one of the most important factors for collectors, as it tells the story of an error that occurred more than a century ago. For numismatists, this coin is not only a piece of history but also a tangible link to the craftsmanship and occasional imperfections of early 20th-century U.S. minting.
The 1918/7 Buffalo Nickel in Very Good condition is a rare and fascinating coin that continues to captivate collectors. Its iconic design, combined with the notable overdate error, makes it one of the most sought-after coins in the Buffalo Nickel series. Whether part of a specialized error coin collection or a broader set of Buffalo Nickels, the 1918/7-D holds significant numismatic value. Its enduring appeal lies in its rarity, historical significance, and the artistry of James Earle Fraser’s design, making it a key addition to any serious collection of U.S. coins.