Approximately 100,000 three-legged Buffalo nickels exist
Only about 100,000 three-legged Buffalo nickels were produced between 1913-1938. These rare coins resulted from minting errors where the buffalo's legs were accidentally omitted during striking.
Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel Production Details
- Production period: 1913-1938
- Total estimated: 100,000 pieces
- Manufacturing error: Missing legs during minting
- Value range: $200-$2,000+
Comparison of Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel Types
| Type | Production Year | Estimated Quantity | Typical Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Three-Legged | 1913-1938 | 100,000 | $200-$2,000 |
| Four-Legged | 1913-1938 | Millions | $1-$50 |
| Two-Legged | 1913-1938 | Thousands | $50-$500 |
Factors Affecting Value
- Coin condition and preservation
- Rarity of specific year variants
- Mint mark identification
- Professional grading certification
Historical Context
Three-legged Buffalo nickels represent significant minting anomalies that occurred during the coin's production period. These errors happened when the dies used to strike the coins became damaged or misaligned, causing the buffalo's legs to be struck incorrectly.