Do you collect coins and want to add a unique piece to your collection? The 1936 Buffalo nickel might be ideal for you in that case! Despite the fact that about 120 million of these coins were made, collectors still find them to be appealing.
In the past, these nickels were necessary for many daily transactions. In the present day, the value of 1936 Nickel has increased dramatically, particularly if they are in superb condition. So, what is the value of a 1936 Buffalo nickel? That is dependent upon its condition, type, and purpose of purchase or sale.
1936 Buffalo Nickel Pricing:
| Good (G-4 to G-6) | $1 | $1 | $1 |
| Very Good (VG-8 to VG-10) | $2.5 | $2.5 | $2.5 |
| Fine (F-12 to F-15) | $3.5 | $3.5 | $3.5 |
| Very Fine (VF-20 to VF-35) | $4 | $4 | $4 |
| Extremely Fine (EF or XF-40 to XF-45) | $6 | $6 | $6 |
| About Uncirculated (AU-50 to AU-58) | $10-$20 | $10-$20 | $10-$20 |
| Mint State (MS-60 to MS-65) | $22-$85 | $22-$85 | $22-$85 |
| Mint State (MS-65+ to MS-67) | $95-$525 | $95-$525 | $95-$525 |
| Mint State (MS-67+ to MS-68+) | $3000-$37,500 | $3000-$37,500 | $3000-$37,500 |
| Mint State (MS-60 to MS-70) | | | |
So, if you're a collector looking for something special, keep an eye out for a 1936 Buffalo nickel. Who knows, it might just be your next valuable addition! In this article, we’ll explore the 1936 Buffalo Nickel value and its auction record price.
1936 Buffalo Nickel Varieties
1936 Buffalo Nickel - Philadelphia Mint
1936 was a year of hope as it seemed the economy was turning the corner after a protracted period of deep recession. Even though it turned out to be premature, this activity was sufficient to increase demand for new coins following years of little to no production.
As a result, the 1936 Philadelphia Mint nickel rose to the top of the series' mintage rankings. It makes sense that 1936(P) nickels are highly prevalent in the Mint State. The majority, on the other hand, are once more not quite struck, with the central obverse being especially noticeable. Extreme die erosion is also frequent since dies were used far past their optimal lifespan.
1936 Buffalo Nickel Value - (NO Mint Mark)
The Philadelphia Mint produced 100 million Buffalo Nickels in 1936, the highest quantity for the entire 1936 series, making them extremely rare. A 1936 Buffalo Nickel in circulation is valued between $0.50 and $20 as of April 2024, while uncirculated examples can fetch up to $37,500.
1936 Buffalo Nickel - Denver Mint
Following years of producing subpar coins, the Denver Mint expected the lead in terms of overall average quality from 1936 through most of the 1950s. Thus, the majority of 1936 D nickels had excellent luster, good to superior strikes, and were well-made.
There are quite a few repunched mintmarks in this issue as well—at least 15 are known. NGC attributes the superior ones to its VarietyPlus Service. There is also a doubled-die reverse known, but it is so subtle that collectors are unlikely to find much interest in it.
1936 Buffalo Nickel (D - Mint Mark) Value
As of April 2024, the NGC Price Guide states that the value of a 1936 Buffalo Nickel in circulated condition ranges from $0.50 to $32.50. On the other hand, 1936 D Nickels in flawless, uncirculated condition can fetch up to $30000 when purchased on the open market.
1936 Buffalo Nickel - San Francisco Mint (S - Mint Mark)
Examples of this are the highest mintage Buffalo Nickel to come from the San Francisco Mint, which is widely available in all grades up to MS 66. The roll in its day heavily hoarded this issue, and the fact that these coins were still being produced a few years later helped speculators in their endeavors.
Fresh rolls of 1936 S and 1937 S Buffalo Nickels were nearly always the reward for West Coast collectors who raced to their local banks in the fall of 1938 in hopes of obtaining the new 1938 S Jefferson Nickels! Most 1936 S nickels were of high-quality construction.
1936 Buffalo Nickel - (S - Mint Mark) Value
As of April 2024, the NGC Price Guide states that the value of a 1936 Buffalo Nickel in circulated condition ranges from $0.50 to $35. On the other hand, 1936 S Nickels in flawless, uncirculated condition can fetch up to $3250 when purchased on the open market.
Key Factors in Deciding the Value of 1936 Buffalo Nickel
Important elements are the coin's grade, mint mark, and any special qualities or mistakes. The buffalo's value is also greatly influenced by the date's readability and the presence of a full horn on its back.
1936 Buffalo Nickel - Auction Record Value
$10,575 is the record auction price for a 1936 Buffalo nickel in MS68 condition. An auction brought $6,168.75 for a 1936-S MS Buffalo nickel in 1440 condition and $1,150.00 for a 1936-S/S MS Buffalo nickel in 87 condition. In November 2023, a 1936 MS Buffalo nickel in 3977 condition brought in $2,703, while in August 2023, the same nickel brought in $264.
Conclusion
In a nutshell, because of its historical significance and rising value over time, the 1936 Buffalo nickel has a unique place in the hearts of collectors. Whether you're a novice or an experienced collector, keeping an eye out for this coin could result in a worthwhile addition to your collection.
Don't forget that factors like condition, mint mark, and any special qualities affect how much it is worth. Thus, good luck on your next treasure hunt, and may the world of numismatics hold your next find!
If you want to add a Buffalo design inspired by the 1936 Buffalo Nickel to your collection, BOLD offers Buffalo silver and gold coins and rounds from various mints at the lowest prices to suit your needs. Browse gold coins at BOLD Precious Metals.
Information and image sources: PCGS, NGC, Heritage Auctions. Find more insights on precious metals and rare coins in our BOLD Precious Metals Blogs section. 
