Preserving Your 1913-S Type 2 Buffalo Nickel: Conservation Best Practices

Understanding the 1913-S Type 2 Buffalo Nickel

The 1913-S Type 2 Buffalo nickel stands as one of American numismatics’ most coveted treasures. Struck at the San Francisco Mint, this iconic coin showcases the Type 2 reverse with the bison standing on a more level mound—a design refinement that replaced the original, where the denomination was partially obscured. With a modest mintage of just 2,105,000 pieces, this coin has long been a cornerstone for serious Buffalo nickel collectors and remains a highlight in any premium collection.

The Conservation Challenge

Throughout my years in the hobby, I’ve witnessed too many valuable pieces ruined by improper cleaning or storage. The 1913-S Type 2 you’ve acquired displays beautiful natural toning—precisely what we want to preserve rather than alter. This coin deserves careful stewardship to maintain its condition for future generations of collectors.

The Science of Toning and Oxidation

Natural toning on silver and copper-nickel coins develops through a fascinating chemical process. When exposed to sulfur compounds in the environment, the metal surface undergoes oxidation, creating the rich, multicolored patina that collectors prize. This toning forms in distinct layers, with each layer representing different chemical compounds and producing unique color spectrums.

The deep, attractive toning visible on your 1913-S Type 2 evidences proper long-term storage conditions. The dark, even coloration suggests the coin was protected from harsh environmental factors while still allowing the natural toning process to occur. This type of toning, often called “album toning” or “cabinet toning,” typically develops when coins are stored in paper albums or envelopes for extended periods—a testament to the care this piece has received over the decades.

The Dangers of Improper Cleaning

Many collectors make the critical mistake of attempting to “brighten up” their coins, not realizing they’re destroying significant value in the process. Cleaning a coin with abrasives, chemicals, or even mild polishing compounds removes original surface metal along with any toning. This process, called “whizzing” when done aggressively, creates an unnatural, often reflective surface that expert graders can easily detect.

For your 1913-S Type 2, which appears to be in premium condition with attractive toning, any cleaning attempt would be catastrophic. The natural toning not only enhances the coin’s aesthetic appeal but also serves as evidence of its authenticity and proper storage history. Once removed, this toning cannot be naturally restored, and the coin’s value could decrease by 50% or more—a devastating loss for such a key date.

Understanding PVC Damage

One of the most insidious threats to coin preservation is PVC (polyvinyl chloride) damage. Many older plastic coin holders, flips, and pages contained PVC as a plasticizer. Over time, PVC breaks down and releases hydrochloric acid, which appears as a slimy, green residue on the coin’s surface. This damage is permanent and progressive—if left untreated, it will continue to eat into the metal.

Fortunately, modern coin storage solutions are PVC-free. When examining your current holder, ensure it’s labeled as archival quality, acid-free, and PVC-free. If you’re unsure about older holders in your collection, it’s worth replacing them as a preventive measure to protect your numismatic investments.

Proper Storage Solutions

Choosing the Right Holder

For a coin of this significance, I recommend housing it in an airtight holder or capsule. Products from reputable manufacturers like Air-Tite, CoinSafe, or Intercept Shield provide excellent protection against environmental contaminants. These holders create a micro-environment that minimizes exposure to sulfur compounds, moisture, and other toning accelerants.

The capsule should fit snugly but not tightly—excessive pressure can cause edge damage over time. For display purposes, consider a two-piece capsule that allows you to view both sides without handling the coin, preserving both its condition and its eye appeal.

Album Storage Considerations

You mentioned wanting to place this in a Dansco album, which is a popular choice among collectors. Dansco albums are made with acid-free materials and provide good protection while allowing you to view your collection. However, for a coin with this level of toning, I’d recommend a slightly different approach.

Consider using individual Dansco pages rather than the bound album. This allows you to store each significant coin in its own capsule within the page’s openings. This hybrid approach provides the organizational benefits of an album while offering superior individual coin protection—a best practice for high-value pieces in your collection.

Environmental Control

Where you store your collection matters as much as how you store it. Ideal conditions include:

• Temperature: 65-70°F (18-21°C)
• Humidity: 45-55% relative humidity
• Minimal light exposure, especially direct sunlight
• Stable environment (avoid attics, basements, or exterior walls)

Consider using silica gel packets in your storage area to control humidity, and if you live in an area with significant climate fluctuations, a small dehumidifier might be a worthwhile investment to protect your numismatic treasures.

The “To Clean or Not to Clean” Debate

This question comes up frequently in numismatic circles, and for good reason. The numismatic community has largely moved away from cleaning coins, recognizing that original surfaces, even with toning or minor imperfections, are far more valuable than artificially brightened examples.

For your 1913-S Type 2, the answer is unequivocally: do not clean it. The coin’s current state represents decades of proper storage and natural aging. The toning is even and attractive, suggesting the coin has been well-cared-for throughout its existence. Any intervention would likely decrease its value and historical integrity—compromising both its numismatic value and its appeal to serious collectors.

If you’re concerned about surface contaminants like fingerprints or dust, use a soft, lint-free cloth to gently dab (not rub) the surface. Never use commercial coin cleaners, household chemicals, or abrasive materials that could damage the coin’s original surfaces.

Documentation and Insurance

Given the significance of this 1913-S Type 2 in your collection, proper documentation is essential. Keep records of:

• Purchase date and price
• Grading service certification number
• High-quality photographs from multiple angles
• Storage location and method

Consider having the coin appraised by a professional numismatist and adding it to your homeowner’s insurance policy or obtaining specialized collectible insurance. The 1913-S is one of the key dates in the Buffalo nickel series, and its value has shown consistent appreciation over time, making proper documentation crucial for insurance purposes.

Building Your Collection Strategically

Your goal of creating a fully uncirculated Buffalo collection is admirable and achievable with proper planning. The 1913-S Type 2 is indeed one of the “big dates” in the series, along with the 1918/7-D overdate and the 1937-D three-legged buffalo. These key dates will likely represent a significant portion of your collection’s total value and collectibility.

As you continue building your set, apply the same conservation principles to each acquisition. Consistency in storage methods and environmental conditions will help maintain the collection’s overall value and appeal, creating a cohesive and well-preserved set that will be the envy of fellow collectors.

Conclusion

The 1913-S Type 2 Buffalo nickel you’ve acquired represents both a significant financial investment and a piece of American history. Its attractive natural toning, combined with its status as a key date, makes it a cornerstone of any serious Buffalo nickel collection. By following proper conservation practices—avoiding cleaning, using appropriate holders, controlling environmental factors, and documenting your collection—you’ll ensure this coin remains in excellent condition for future generations to appreciate.

Remember that in numismatics, patience is indeed a virtue. The natural aging process that created the beautiful toning on your 1913-S Type 2 took decades. With proper care, this coin will continue to be a highlight of your collection for many years to come, potentially increasing in both historical significance and monetary value as time passes. This is what makes our hobby so rewarding—preserving history one coin at a time.

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