AI Appraisal Estimate

This is a United States five-cent coin, commonly known as a Buffalo Nickel or Indian Head Nickel, designed by sculptor James Earle Fraser. The image shows the reverse side of the coin, featuring an American bison (buffalo) standing on a raised mound. The coin is composed of a cupronickel alloy (75% copper and 25% nickel), exhibiting a dull silver-grey metallic color. Physical dimensions for this series are typically 21.21 mm in diameter with a weight of 5 grams. Notable inscriptions include 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA' and 'E PLURIBUS UNUM' above the buffalo, and the denomination 'FIVE CENTS' along the bottom rim. Regarding condition, the specimen shows significant circulation wear; the buffalo's horn and hair texture are smoothed, and the rim and lettering show signs of flattening. There is a distinct yellowish/greenish discoloration or residue on the upper right quadrant of the buffalo, which could be environmental toning or a foreign adhesive substance. Based on the flat mound design (Type 2), this coin would have been minted between 1913 and 1938. The obverse is not visible to confirm the date, but the overall patina suggests a naturally aged, circulated piece of mid-grade quality.

I have examined the digital image of the reverse side of this United States Buffalo Nickel. The coin exhibits characteristics consistent with an authentic 1913–1938 Type 2 'Flat Ground' specimen. My assessment places this coin in 'Good' to 'Very Good' (G-VG) circulated condition. Key features like the buffalo’s horn and tail are heavily worn, and the lettering, while legible, lacks the crispness of higher-grade examples. A notable concern is the greenish/yellowish surface residue on the upper right; if this is active verdigris or PVC damage, it may eventually pit the metal; however, it currently appears to be environmental toning or a surface contaminant. The Buffalo Nickel is a highly collected series, yet value is heavily dependent on the visibility of the date (located on the obverse) and the presence of a mint mark. Without viewing the obverse, I must assume this is a common-date specimen. Market value for average circulated Buffalo Nickels remains low due to their high original mintage numbers, with most specimens in this grade selling for a modest premium over face value. Limitations: This appraisal is based solely on a single-sided photographic image. A physical examination is required to verify the coin’s weight, edge integrity, and metal composition. I cannot definitively rule out a counterfeit or an 'acid-restored' date without seeing the obverse and testing the surface under 10x magnification. To finalize this valuation, I would need to confirm the date and mint mark, as specific 'key dates' (like the 1921-S) can increase value by hundreds of dollars. Without documentation or a high-resolution view of the mint mark area, this remains a standard collectible-grade coin.