1937 Buffalo Nickel Authentication: 5 Critical Tests to Verify Authenticity

Historical Significance

The 1937 Buffalo Nickel stands as a true American classic, marking one of the final chapters in this beloved series before its retirement in 1938. James Earle Fraser’s masterful design – featuring the dignified Native American profile on the obverse and the powerful American bison on the reverse – captures the spirit of the American West. With millions still circulating, collectors must remain vigilant, as sophisticated counterfeits have flooded the market in recent years, threatening the integrity of this iconic coin.

Visual Inspection: What to Look For

Begin your authentication journey with a careful visual examination under proper lighting. The 1937 Buffalo Nickel should display crisp, well-defined details – the Native American’s headdress feathers must show distinct separation, while the bison’s fur texture should be clearly visible. The date and mint mark (if present) require particular scrutiny. A genuine coin develops a natural, even patina over decades – that warm, mellow toning collectors prize. Any bubbling, discoloration, or unusual surface texture suggests tampering or counterfeit production.

Weight Verification: The First Critical Test

Authentic 1937 Buffalo Nickels weigh precisely 5.00 grams, with a tolerance of ±0.1 grams. This specification remained consistent across all mints – Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco. Using a precision digital scale accurate to 0.01 grams, place the coin carefully and ensure it’s perfectly centered. A weight outside this range immediately raises red flags. Counterfeiters frequently use incorrect metal compositions, resulting in telltale weight discrepancies. Even a mere 0.2-gram difference can indicate a fake.

Magnetic Properties: The Non-Destructive Test

Buffalo Nickels consist of 75% copper and 25% nickel, rendering them non-magnetic. This simple yet highly effective test requires only a strong rare-earth magnet. Bring it close to the coin’s surface – an authentic 1937 Buffalo Nickel will show absolutely no magnetic attraction. If the coin moves toward the magnet or feels sticky when pulled away, you’re likely holding a counterfeit made with magnetic metals like steel or iron. Some sophisticated fakes use non-magnetic metals but fail this basic test, making it an excellent first-line authentication method.

Die Markers and Design Details

Each 1937 Buffalo Nickel possesses specific die markers that prove extremely difficult for counterfeiters to replicate accurately. On the obverse, examine the Native American’s profile, particularly the nostril and the separation between the lips. The word “LIBERTY” should be clearly visible on the right side, with the date positioned directly below. On the reverse, the bison’s horn should show distinct ridges, and the lettering of “FIVE CENTS” should be sharp and evenly spaced. Using a jeweler’s loupe at 10x magnification reveals these details with microscopic precision that’s nearly impossible to fake.

Common Fakes and Their Telltale Signs

The most prevalent counterfeits of the 1937 Buffalo Nickel fall into several categories. Some are simple copper-nickel plated coins with incorrect weight and magnetic properties. Others are altered dates from common 1936 nickels, where the last digit has been modified – these can sometimes pass visual inspection but fail weight tests. The most sophisticated fakes are cast reproductions, which often show a soapy or mushy appearance under magnification, with loss of fine detail. Be particularly wary of coins showing signs of tampering, such as solder marks, which could indicate a previously mounted coin that’s been altered.

Advanced Testing Methods

For high-value specimens or if uncertainty remains after basic tests, consider these advanced methods. Specific gravity testing measures the coin’s density through water displacement – authentic Buffalo Nickels register approximately 8.85 g/cm³. Ultrasonic testing can reveal internal inconsistencies in metal composition invisible externally. Professional grading services employ X-ray fluorescence (XRF) analysis to determine exact metal content without damaging the coin. While these methods require specialized equipment, they provide definitive answers about authenticity.

Common Damage vs. Counterfeit Indicators

Distinguishing between natural damage from decades of circulation and signs of counterfeiting proves crucial. Solder on the reverse and wire brushing on the obverse – classic signs of a coin that was once jewelry or suffered heat damage – significantly reduce value but don’t necessarily indicate a fake. However, when you see these signs alongside other authentication failures (wrong weight, magnetic properties, or poor detail), you’re likely examining a counterfeit that’s been artificially aged. Always consider the full context when examining a potentially altered coin.

Professional Authentication Options

When doubt persists, professional authentication proves invaluable. Services like PCGS, NGC, ANACS, and ICG offer expert grading and authentication using multiple specialists and advanced technology. While there’s a cost involved, professional authentication becomes essential for valuable coins or when building a serious collection. These organizations provide detailed reports on any damage, alterations, or signs of tampering, giving you complete confidence in your investment.

Conclusion: Protecting Your Investment

Authenticating a 1937 Buffalo Nickel demands attention to detail and systematic testing. By combining visual inspection with weight verification, magnetic testing, and examination of die markers, you can confidently determine authenticity. Remember that even damaged coins retain value if authentic, while a pristine counterfeit holds worth only in its metal content. The key lies in knowing what to look for and not hesitating to seek professional help when needed. With counterfeits growing increasingly sophisticated, these authentication skills prove more important than ever for serious collectors and investors.

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