Coin Details
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Date: 1937
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Mint: Denver (“D” mintmark)
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Denomination: 5 cents
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Metal Composition: 75% copper, 25% nickel
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Diameter: 21.2 mm
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Weight: 5.00 grams
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Designer: James Earle Fraser
Variety Diagnostics
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Missing front right leg (only the hoof may remain faintly visible)
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“Stream” or line beneath the buffalo’s belly, a key die-polishing marker
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Flatness around the leg area due to the aggressive polishing
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Denver “D” mintmark confirms the known mint for this variety
Grade: VF20 (Very Fine)
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Moderate circulation wear, especially on high points like the cheek and shoulder of the Native American and the buffalo’s head and hump
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Key features of the 3-legged variety remain clearly visible, including the missing leg and belly line
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Still an attractive and collectible piece at this mid-grade level
Summary
Your 1937-D 3-Legged Buffalo Nickel, graded ANACS VF20, is a mid-grade example of one of the most famous mint errors in U.S. numismatics. Despite moderate wear, the variety remains distinct and desirable, with essential diagnostics clearly visible.
