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 reverse of the coin is shown, featuring an American Bison (buffalo) facing left, which is said to have been modeled after Black Diamond from the Central Park Zoo. The inscription 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA' and 'E PLURIBUS UNUM' follow the top rim, while 'FIVE CENTS' is located at the bottom. Measuring approximately 21.21 mm in diameter and composed of a copper-nickel alloy (75% copper, 25% nickel), this specific specimen displays significant wear and a dull grey patina. The central details of the buffalo, including the horn, mane, and muscle definition, are heavily smoothed and flat, indicating it has spent a long duration in general circulation. The rim is partially worn down into the lettering. While the obverse is not visible, these coins were minted between 1913 and 1938. The absence of a mint mark under the 'FIVE CENTS' inscription suggests it was struck at the Philadelphia Mint. The coin appears to be in 'Good' (G) to 'About Good' (AG) numismatic condition due to the loss of fine detail and flattened relief.

I have examined the digital representation of this United States Buffalo Nickel (1913-1938). Based on the provided image of the reverse, the coin exhibits heavy circulation wear consistent with an 'About Good' (AG-3) to 'Good' (G-4) grade. The buffalo's horn is completely worn away, the tail is faint, and the 'FIVE CENTS' legend is beginning to merge with the rim. These characteristics indicate extensive time in commerce. As a Philadelphia mint issue (noted by the absence of a mint mark), this is a common strike. The market for heavily circulated Buffalo nickels is currently driven by fractional silver stacking and entry-level numismatics, where they typically sell for a small premium over face value unless they bear a key date. Without seeing the obverse to confirm the date, I must value this as a 'common date' specimen. Factors such as the dull grey patina and lack of luster are typical for the alloy and grade. Authenticity appears consistent with genuine Mint products of the era, though photographic analysis cannot account for weight, diameter, or metallic composition. A full authentication would require a high-precision grain scale to verify the 5.0 gram standard, a caliper check for the 21.21 mm diameter, and a physical inspection of the date on the obverse to rule out 'acid-dating' which can chemically restore a date but significantly lowers the value. For high-value potential, ثالث-party grading by PCGS or NGC would be needed, though not recommended for this specific specimen's condition.