Vintage Buffalo Nickel Cluster Belt Buckle

This is a vintage cluster-style belt buckle featuring ten United States Buffalo Nickels (also known as Indian Head Nickels) arranged in an organic, overlapping scalloped pattern. The coins are set into a cast metal frame, likely made of a base white metal or nickel-silver alloy. The nickels display both the obverse (Native American profile) and reverse (American Bison/Buffalo) designs. Notable dates visible on the obverse coins include 1936 and 1937, suggesting the coins themselves are authentic circulating currency from the late 1930s. The construction utilizes a soldering or epoxy technique to secure the coins within individual bezel-like recessed mounts. Regarding condition, the buckle shows significant signs of age and wear. There is prominent green oxidation (verdigris) across several coins, specifically on the upper left and top middle nickels, which indicates exposure to moisture and potential reaction with the copper content in the coinage. The coin surfaces are heavily circulated with softened high-relief details, and the outer frame shows minor surface abrasions consistent with regular use. The overall craftsmanship is typical of 1970s-era Western-style accessory manufacturing. There are no clearly visible maker's marks on the front; however, the heavy patina and distinctive coin-based design are characteristic of mid-to-late 20th-century Americana folk art and Western fashion accessories.