United States Buffalo Nickel (Indian Head Nickel)

This is a United States five-cent piece, commonly known as a Buffalo Nickel or Indian Head Nickel, designed by sculptor James Earle Fraser. The coin is composed of cupro-nickel (75% copper, 25% nickel) and features the iconic right-facing profile of a Native American on the obverse side. The portrait is a composite of three different Native American chiefs: Iron Tail, Big Tree, and Two Moons. The word 'LIBERTY' is visible along the upper-right edge of the rim. In terms of condition, this specific specimen shows significant signs of circulation and wear. The facial details of the Native American are smoothed down, and the hair braids and feathers lack sharp definition. Most notably, the date, which should be located on the shoulder at the bottom left of the portrait, appears to be completely worn away or 'dateless.' This is a common issue with Buffalo Nickels as the date was a high point of the design. The coin possesses a dull, greyish patina consistent with long-term handling, and there are various small surface scratches and rim dings. Based on the design, this coin was minted between its production years of 1913 and 1938. The reverse side (not visible) typically features an American Bison, likely modeled after 'Black Diamond' from the Central Park Zoo.