Copper Nickel Coin Appraisal

United States Buffalo Nickel (Indian Head Nickel)

This item is a United States five-cent piece, commonly known as a Buffalo Nickel or Indian Head Nickel, originally designed by sculptor James Earle Fraser. The coin is composed of a cupronickel alloy (75% copper, 25% nickel) and features the profile of a Native American man on the obverse. The coin exhibits significant circulation wear, consistent with a low grade (likely 'About Good' or 'Good'). The high points of the design, specifically the cheekbone, hair braid, and feather details, are significantly flattened. Most notably, the date on the shoulder area has been completely worn away, which is a common occurrence for this series as the date was positioned on a raised surface. The surface displays a dark, dull grey patina with some localized areas of greenish corrosion (verdigris) near the base of the neck, suggesting exposure to moisture or chemicals. The rim is worn thin but remains mostly intact. Without a visible date, this specimen is referred to as a 'dateless' buffalo nickel. These coins were minted by the US Mint between 1913 and 1938. Despite the heavy wear, the iconic profile remains clearly identifiable as a hallmark of early 20th-century American numismatic art.