United States Buffalo Nickel (Five-Cent Piece)

This item 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 (tails) side of the coin, featuring an American bison (buffalo) standing on a mound. The material is a copper-nickel alloy (75% copper, 25% nickel). Visible text on this side includes 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA' and 'E PLURIBUS UNUM' at the top, and 'FIVE CENTS' along the bottom. The bison stands facing left, exhibiting the classic 'Type 2' design where the mound or 'ground' is recessed. Physically, the coin shows signs of heavy circulation; the higher relief areas of the bison's shoulder and flank are significantly worn down, losing their original fine texture. There is a dark, uneven patina and surface grime across the coin, particularly in the recesses of the lettering and around the bison's legs. The rim appears somewhat softened but largely intact. While the specific mint mark (if present) would be located below the 'FIVE CENTS' denomination, it is not clearly legible in this resolution. Based on the design, this coin dates between 1913 and 1938. The lack of sharp definition in the buffalo's tail and the wear on the lettering suggest a grade in the 'Good' to 'Very Good' range, indicating a long history of use in commerce.

I have conducted a visual examination of the provided image depicting the reverse of a United States Buffalo Nickel (1913-1938). The coin exhibits characteristics consistent with a Type 2 design, featuring an American bison on a recessed ground. Based on the significant flattening of the bison's shoulder, horn, and tail, along with the merging of the rim in several areas, I classify this specimen in 'Good' (G-4) to 'Very Good' (VG-8) condition. While the design appears authentic to the period, the surface shows a heavy, dark patina and accumulated grime typical of long-term circulation. The market for common-date Buffalo Nickels in this condition is highly liquid but yields low premiums, as millions were minted and remain available to collectors. The primary value-driver for this series is the date and mint mark; however, the obverse (which displays the date) was not provided, and the mint mark area below 'FIVE CENTS' is too worn or obscured to identify. If this were a key date like the 1913-S Variety 2 or 1921-S, the value would increase significantly. Because I am working from a single-sided image, I cannot verify the coin's weight, diameter, or the authenticity of the obverse. A full professional appraisal would require a physical inspection to check for 'acid-restored' dates or added mint marks. For definitive valuation and protection against counterfeits, I recommend submission to a third-party grading service like PCGS or NGC, particularly if the obverse reveals a rare date.