Considered one of the most important rarities by various numismatic experts, the 1918/7-D nickel takes the cake as one of the rarest Buffaloes. It’s rare in all grades, even the lowest circulated grades, and virtually elusive in the Gem range. The coin was created when two hubs, one dated 1917 and the other 1918, were used to impress a single working die. The coin also bears a characteristically left-leaning “D” mintmark, and this is one of the key diagnostics in determining an authentic version of this coin from a fake.

This coin was first recognized as an error in 1930, and ever since it has become a coin of nearly legendary status, particularly so among Buffalo nickel enthusiasts. This demand has put much pressure on the prices of all examples of this coin. Perhaps 85 to 110 are known in uncirculated grades, and but a tiny handful in MS65 or above, where pieces regularly realize six figures when those examples hit the trading circles.