A Surprise Discovery
In a small town in Ohio, a 65-year-old retired teacher named Clara Thompson made an unexpected find. While cleaning her attic, she came across an old piggy bank that belonged to her late father. The piggy bank, dusty and forgotten for over 30 years, held a mix of coins. Among them was a 1937 Buffalo Nickel, a coin that turned out to be worth much more than its five-cent face value. Clara, who had no idea about its value, took the coin to a local antique shop, where the owner’s eyes widened in disbelief.
What Makes It Special?
The Buffalo Nickel, designed by James Earle Fraser, was minted in the United States from 1913 to 1938. It features a Native American profile on one side and a buffalo on the other. Clara’s coin was special because it was a rare “three-legged” variety from 1937, caused by a minting error where one of the buffalo’s legs is missing. This error makes the coin highly valuable to collectors. Experts say only a few thousand of these coins exist, and their value can range from $500 to over $50,000, depending on condition.
A Growing Buzz
News of Clara’s find spread quickly in her town. Local collectors and history enthusiasts visited her to learn more about the coin. Clara, a simple woman who enjoys gardening, was amazed by the attention. She decided to get the coin appraised by a professional numismatist, who confirmed its authenticity. The coin was in good condition, increasing its value to around $10,000. Clara shared that her father, a factory worker, loved collecting small items but never spoke about this coin.
What’s Next for Clara?
Clara now faces a big decision: keep the coin as a family treasure or sell it. She is leaning toward selling it to fund her grandchildren’s education. The coin has already been displayed at a local history museum, where it drew crowds. For Clara, the discovery is more than just money; it’s a connection to her father’s memory. She said, “I feel like my father left me a gift, something to remember him by.”
Why Coins Tell Stories
Old coins like the Buffalo Nickel are more than just money; they carry history. They remind us of a time when life was simpler, and every penny counted. For collectors, such coins are like time machines, offering a glimpse into the past. Clara’s story has inspired others to check their own piggy banks and attics, hoping to find a hidden gem. Who knows how many other treasures are waiting to be found?
| Coin Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Year | 1937 |
| Type | Buffalo Nickel |
| Special Feature | Three-Legged |
| Estimated Value | $500-$50,000 |
Clara’s discovery shows that sometimes, the smallest things can hold the biggest surprises. Her story is a reminder to look closely at what we have; we might just find a piece of history.