Coin Collected Dust for 30 Years: In a small Ohio town, a retired woman’s ordinary attic cleanup turned into an extraordinary discovery. Clara Thompson, 62, had kept an old piggy bank on her shelf for decades—unaware that inside lay a rare 1937 Buffalo Nickel worth thousands. What began as a simple trip down memory lane became a life-changing windfall, proving that hidden treasures can still be found in the most unexpected places.
A Childhood Piggy Bank Holds a Secret
Clara had received the piggy bank from her father when she was a child, and over the years, she had tucked away spare change inside before eventually forgetting about it. While cleaning her attic last month, she rediscovered the dusty ceramic bank and, out of curiosity, decided to crack it open. Among the ordinary nickels and pennies was one coin that stood out—a gleaming 1937 Buffalo Nickel, perfectly preserved after decades of storage.
Why the Buffalo Nickel Is a Collector’s Dream
First minted in 1913, the Buffalo Nickel (officially called the Indian Head Nickel) was designed by sculptor James Earle Fraser. Its iconic imagery—a Native American chief on the obverse and an American bison on the reverse—symbolizes the spirit of the Old West. Because these coins were heavily circulated, finding one in excellent condition is rare. Clara’s nickel, untouched in her piggy bank for 30 years, had sharp details and minimal wear, making it highly desirable among collectors.
From Spare Change to a Small Fortune
Unsure of the coin’s value, Clara took it to a local coin dealer, Tom Bradley. His eyes widened as he examined it under a magnifying glass—not only was it in near-mint condition, but it also bore the elusive “D” mint mark, indicating it was struck at the Denver Mint. Such well-preserved examples are scarce, and Tom estimated it could fetch $10,000 to $20,000 at auction.
After having it professionally graded, Clara decided to sell it through a Cleveland auction house. The listing quickly gained attention, with collectors drawn to both its condition and the heartwarming backstory of its discovery. When the bidding finally closed at $15,500, Clara was stunned.
What Made This Nickel So Valuable?
Several key factors contributed to the coin’s high value:
- Exceptional Preservation – Unlike most Buffalo Nickels, which show heavy wear from decades of use, Clara’s coin had been protected from circulation.
- The Rare “D” Mint Mark – Denver Mint issues from this era are harder to find in top condition.
- A Story That Captivated Buyers – The coin’s journey—from a childhood piggy bank to a high-stakes auction—added sentimental appeal.
A Happy Ending and a New Hobby
For Clara, the windfall was more than just financial—it felt like a gift from her late father. She plans to use the money to pay off bills and take her grandchildren on a special trip. The experience has also inspired her to explore coin collecting, and she now sifts through old jars and boxes with renewed curiosity.
Her story serves as a reminder that treasures can lurk in the most mundane places—sometimes, all it takes is a little luck and a second look.
Could You Have a Rare Coin Hiding at Home?
If you have old piggy banks, coin jars, or inherited collections, it might be worth checking for rare finds. Key things to look for:
- Buffalo Nickels (1913-1938) – Especially those with full horn details and clear dates.
- Mint Marks – Coins from Denver (“D”) or San Francisco (“S”) are often rarer.
- Unusual Condition – Coins with minimal wear or unique errors can be valuable.
You never know—your spare change could be worth far more than you think.
