1937-D Nickel Indian Head or Buffalo NGC F-12 Three Legged

1937-D Indian Head (Buffalo) Nickel — 3-Legged Variety, NGC F-12

One of the most famous and recognizable varieties in American numismatics, the 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel is a must-have for collectors of classic U.S. coinage.

This example is certified NGC F-12 (Fine) and features the iconic Buffalo Nickel design by renowned sculptor James Earle Fraser. The obverse depicts a Native American portrait, while the reverse showcases the powerful American bison.

The famous “Three-Legged” variety resulted from excessive polishing, or lapping, of a reverse die at the Denver Mint. The process removed most of the buffalo's front leg from the die, resulting in the distinctive three-legged appearance seen on this variety. NGC considers it a late die state rather than a traditional die variety.

The 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo is one of the most popular and important varieties of the entire Buffalo Nickel series. Its strong collector demand makes even circulated examples desirable.