Buffalo counterfeits

tsq

I've had some help here before and would like to ask a follow up - I am collecting a series of Buffalo Nickels, lower grades (VG-F). I'm getting them from stores (rather than internet, mail) mostly and enjoy the visiting as much as anything. I have read about various counterfeits and am a little leery of some of the keys, but have got to guess at this level of wear and circulation that counterfeit mint marks etc are highly unlikely even for a 1913 II S? Even so, if I am wrong, the level of wear will make detection highly difficult anyway? I always look at edges etc, but...

Thanks, any discussion valuable.

tsq

UncleJoe

The most I have seen done to lower grade buffalos is where the metal has been kind of scooped out and pushed around to give the appearance of a mintmark. Some of these are quite good and without a loupe might fool you. I would suggest always look at the mintmark with a loupe.

Look at the edge as you mentioned for mintmarks pushed up from inside the coin and beware of added mintmarks. Make sure the mintmark really flows with the metal. A little acetone might dissolve the glue holding the mintmark but they probably won't let you do that in their store.

Joe.

Petescorner

tsq, I don't know if you buy any coins off of eBay or not, but if you do, I have a highly recommended seller for you. His eBay id is: ipmatman. He pretty much specializes in VG-F Buffalo nickels. He doesn't post pictures, but every Buffalo nickel I've ever purchased from him has been perfectly graded. I bought most of the key dates in my VG-F set from him last year and got great deals on all of them.

Btw, I completed my VG-F set a few months ago and I'd be happy to compare notes with you on what I paid for each coin along the way. PM me if interested.