The 1938-D/D Buffalo Nickel is worth anywhere from $5 in heavily worn condition to well over $100 in high-grade mint state — and certain certified examples can fetch several hundred dollars or more. If you found one of these coins in an old collection or a forgotten jar, you’re holding a genuine piece of American numismatic history, and it’s absolutely worth taking a closer look.
What Makes the 1938-D/D Buffalo Nickel Special
The 1938-D/D Buffalo Nickel is what collectors call a “repunched mintmark” variety. This means the “D” mintmark on the coin’s reverse was stamped more than once, and you can see the shadow or doubling of that letter with a magnifying glass. It’s a small detail, but it makes a big difference in value.
This coin was minted in Denver in 1938, the final year of the Buffalo Nickel series. Because it was the last year of production, collectors were paying close attention, which means many were saved in decent condition. The repunched mintmark variety adds another layer of collector interest on top of an already popular issue.
If you’re not sure what you’re looking at, a free coin identifier app can help you get a quick read on whether your coin matches this variety before you go any further.
How to Spot the D/D Repunched Mintmark
To identify the 1938-D/D, flip your Buffalo Nickel over and look below the words “FIVE CENTS” on the reverse. You’ll see a small “D” mintmark. On the D/D variety, that mintmark appears doubled — look for a faint secondary “D” overlapping or sitting just slightly off from the primary one.
You’ll need at least a 5x loupe or magnifying glass to see this clearly. Natural lighting or a small coin light helps a lot. Don’t confuse worn mintmarks or damage with true repunching — a true D/D will show a clearly defined second impression.
Once you’ve identified the variety, it’s worth checking the latest 1938-D Buffalo Nickel price data to get a sense of what the market looks like right now, especially for mint state examples.
1938-D/D Buffalo Nickel Value by Grade
Condition is everything when it comes to coin values. Here’s a general breakdown of what the 1938-D/D Buffalo Nickel is worth depending on its grade:
| Grade | Description | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|
| Good (G-4) | Heavy wear, flat design, date visible | $5 – $8 |
| Fine (F-12) | Moderate wear, some detail visible | $10 – $15 |
| Extremely Fine (EF-40) | Light wear on high points only | $20 – $35 |
| About Uncirculated (AU-55) | Slight wear, most luster present | $40 – $65 |
| Mint State (MS-63) | Uncirculated, minor marks | $75 – $120 |
| Mint State (MS-65+) | Gem uncirculated, strong luster | $150 – $400+ |
These are general market estimates. Certified coins (graded by PCGS or NGC) often sell at the higher end or above these ranges at auction.
Where to Get an Accurate Value for Your Coin
Once you know you have a 1938-D/D Buffalo Nickel, it’s smart to get a proper valuation before selling or trading. A professional coin dealer can give you an in-person appraisal, but if you want a quick starting point, technology has made this easier than ever.
CoinHix is a great tool for collectors and newcomers alike. You can use CoinHix to look up current market prices, track coin values over time, and compare what similar coins have sold for recently. It takes the guesswork out of the process, especially if you’re not deep into the hobby yet.
You can also get a broader picture of what your coin might be worth by reviewing detailed 1938 Buffalo Nickel value information that breaks down the full series by date and mintmark.
Should You Get It Certified
If your 1938-D/D Buffalo Nickel grades above Extremely Fine and the repunched mintmark is clearly visible, professional certification could be worth the investment. Third-party grading by PCGS or NGC adds credibility and often boosts resale value, especially for variety coins like the D/D.
For coins in circulated or lower grades, certification costs may outweigh the benefit. In those cases, a quick check on CoinHix or a visit to a local coin show is probably all you need to get a fair price.
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FAQ About the 1938-D/D Buffalo Nickel
Q: How do I know if my Buffalo Nickel is the D/D variety and not just a regular 1938-D?
A: Look at the mintmark on the reverse with a magnifying glass. The D/D variety shows a second, overlapping “D” impression beneath or beside the primary mintmark. If the “D” looks clean and single, it’s a regular 1938-D. When in doubt, compare it to reference images online or run it through a coin identification app.
Q: Is the 1938-D/D Buffalo Nickel rare?
A: It’s not exceptionally rare, but it is a recognized variety that collectors actively seek out. The repunched mintmark makes it more desirable than the standard 1938-D, and it tends to sell for a small premium, especially in higher grades.
Q: What’s the best way to sell a 1938-D/D Buffalo Nickel?
A: Your best options are selling to a local coin dealer, listing it on eBay, or working with an auction house if the coin grades MS-64 or higher. Always get a second opinion on value before selling, and consider getting it certified if it’s in top condition.
