Is Your Buffalo Nickel Variety Authentic? Expert Authentication Guide

Historical Significance

Buffalo nickels, minted from 1913 to 1938, represent one of America’s most beloved coin series. These iconic coins feature James Earle Fraser’s celebrated design depicting a Native American on the obverse and an American bison on the reverse. Beyond their artistic merit, Buffalo nickels have become a playground for variety collectors, with die varieties and doubled dies offering exciting opportunities for discovery and adding significant numismatic value to the right specimens.

Authentication Guide: Critical Diagnostic Points

Weight Verification

Authentic Buffalo nickels should weigh precisely 5.00 grams, with a tolerance of ±0.13 grams for circulated examples. Any coin significantly deviating from this standard should raise immediate suspicion. Use a precision digital scale calibrated to 0.01 grams for accurate measurement. Counterfeit Buffalo nickels often fall outside acceptable weight ranges due to incorrect alloy composition or manufacturing processes, lacking the proper copper-nickel blend that gives genuine specimens their characteristic heft.

Magnetic Properties Test

Buffalo nickels were struck in 75% copper and 25% nickel, making them non-magnetic. A simple magnet test can quickly eliminate many counterfeit specimens. If your Buffalo nickel exhibits any magnetic attraction, it’s almost certainly a fake. However, absence of magnetism alone doesn’t guarantee authenticity, as some sophisticated counterfeits use non-magnetic base metals that can fool the untrained eye.

Die Markers and Variety Identification

Die markers are critical for authenticating Buffalo nickel varieties. These include:

• Die cracks and breaks that appear in consistent locations
• Repunched mint marks (RPMs) with specific characteristics
• Doubled dies with distinct spread patterns
• Die chips and gouges that match known examples

“The devil is in the details when it comes to variety authentication. Even minor differences in die markers can distinguish a genuine variety from a counterfeit or altered coin.” – Bill Fivaz, Cherrypickers’ Guide Co-author

Common Fakes and Alterations

Counterfeiters target Buffalo nickels due to their popularity and value. The most common fakes include:

Altered Dates

1916/16 overdates and 1918/7-D overdates are frequently altered from common dates. Examine the date area under magnification for signs of tooling, re-engraving, or metal disturbance. Authentic overdates show natural flow of metal and consistent wear patterns that are nearly impossible to replicate artificially.

Added Mint Marks

Rare mint mark varieties like the 1916 doubled die or 1918/7-D are sometimes created by adding or altering mint marks. Compare the mint mark style, size, and positioning to known genuine examples. Added mint marks often show tool marks or incorrect font characteristics that betray their artificial nature.

Cast Counterfeits

Many low-quality counterfeits are created through casting processes. These typically show poor detail, porous surfaces, and incorrect weight. However, some high-quality casts can be convincing to the untrained eye, making professional authentication essential for valuable specimens.

Advanced Testing Methods

Die Variety Comparison

When submitting a potential new variety for Cherrypickers’ Guide consideration, detailed comparison with known dies is essential. Photograph your specimen alongside verified examples, highlighting specific markers and diagnostic points. The Cherrypickers’ Guide team at cherrypickers@whitman.com welcomes submissions from serious researchers who have done their homework.

Professional Authentication

For high-value specimens or potential new discoveries, professional authentication through PCGS, NGC, or ANACS is recommended. These services use advanced techniques including:

• High-resolution digital imaging to capture every detail
• Metallurgical analysis to verify alloy composition
• Die state comparison databases with thousands of reference examples
• Expert examination by variety specialists with decades of experience

Reference Materials

Essential references for Buffalo nickel authentication include:

• Cherrypickers’ Guide to Rare Die Varieties
• Standard Catalog of United States Coins
• Specialized Buffalo nickel references by David Lange and other experts
• Online resources like doubleddie.com for doubled die varieties

Value Guide and Market Considerations

Authentic Buffalo nickel varieties can command significant premiums. Common dates in circulated condition might trade for $1-5, while rare varieties in high grades can exceed $10,000. The value depends on:

• Rarity and demand for the specific variety
• Condition and eye appeal – coins with original luster and minimal marks command top dollar
• Authentication and certification status from reputable services
• Current market conditions and collector interest

Recent Market Trends

The market for Buffalo nickel varieties has remained strong, with collectors actively seeking new discoveries. Recent submissions to the Cherrypickers’ Guide have included significant doubled dies from modern issues like the 2015 WDDO-006, 2019 WDDO-011, and 2024 WDDO-002, demonstrating ongoing interest in variety collecting and the potential for new discoveries even in contemporary coinage.

Conclusion: The Importance of Expert Authentication

With sophisticated counterfeits becoming increasingly common, proper authentication is more critical than ever for Buffalo nickel collectors. Whether you’re submitting a potential new variety to the Cherrypickers’ Guide or simply protecting your collection, understanding the diagnostic points outlined in this guide will help you make informed decisions and avoid costly mistakes.

Remember that even experienced collectors can be fooled by high-quality counterfeits. When in doubt, seek professional authentication and don’t hesitate to reach out to variety experts like Bill Fivaz or the Cherrypickers’ Guide team. The numismatic community thrives on collaboration and shared knowledge, making it easier than ever to verify potential discoveries and protect the integrity of our hobby.

For those with potential new varieties, the process remains straightforward: document your findings thoroughly, compare with known examples, and submit your research to the appropriate authorities. The numismatic world eagerly awaits your discoveries, but only properly authenticated varieties will earn their place in the reference books and command respect in the marketplace.

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