1917-D 5C 3 1/2 Leg, FS-901 MS(PCGS#38441)

November 2025 Showcase Auction U.S. Coins

Auctioneer

Stack's Bowers

Lot Number

8091

Grade

AU58

Price

2,400

Lot Description

Similar to the famous 1937-D 3-Legged both in appearance and means of production, the 1917-D 3 1/2-Legged nickel is the result of overzealous die polishing on the part of Mint employees. In the specific case of this error, however, the die polishing only removed half of the middle portion of the bison's right foreleg. This conditionally scarce survivor reveals only faint wear to overall bold-looking devices. The all-important error is easily seen on the reverse, as the surfaces are lightly and evenly toned in golden-gray patina. Free of significant abrasions, as well, with a very nice "look" at the upper reaches of Choice AU. Conditionally rare in this high grade, only 6 Mint State examples have thus far been graded at PCGS.