Odd surface on buffalo nickel

jesbroken

I have seen this surface degradation several times lately on buffalo nickels. What caused it? Maybe acid, or some type of restorer, or just method of storing? I have never seen any from the mint in this condition.
Thanks,
Jim

Added: A local collector told me a rusted die might have caused it.

OnWithTheHunt

I think it's corrosion.

BIGAL2749

Corrosion,

Rusted dies ususaly result with small bumps and varied texture over the surface,
Not an even sand blasted look as this coin.

1630Boston

N1.....E.D., JMO

BuffaloIronTail

The coin has been reworked at least once. The diminished inside feather is a clue. A later die state and corrosion would contribute to "the look".

It also looks like someone played with the coin.....those sharp lines at the top of Iron Tails' knot look like someone tried to enhance that area. There's also a strange gouge on His neck.

Notice the neat die crack that goes from the field through the top lip?

Strange.

Pete

koynekwest

Corrosion-not a "rusted die"-possibly from long term contact with the ground.

ricko

That Buff has been worked on... @BuffaloIronTail has pointed out some issues.... Looks as if prior corrosion was removed and certain details enhanced .... Cheers, RickO

jesbroken

Here are the complete photos of the coin. As both the obverse and reverse were alike, I felt the small photo would be enough. I was pretty sure that either long term burial or acid was the cause, but what caught my attention was the streaking which the surface damage seemed to follow. Also, this was the 3rd coin I have seen this year in like condition. Didn't save pics of the other two as just thought them to be acid treated, but now that 3 have shown up in a year, I need to watch this seller for the future to see if any more show up.
Thanks,
Jim