Error experts, is this 1939 nickel a mint error, or something else?

It has spent time in the ground.

Well worn coins can take on various surfaces, especially if you factor in environmental damage.

Does not look undersized so not struck on a cent planchet.

Remember that nickels are made from an alloy of 75% copper and 25% nickel, so the copper in in there already.

Just environmental damage. No numismatic interest or value.

@MarkKelley said:
As a metal detectorist, I can tell you that most nickels that I dig up look like this.

The above is the answer.

Pete

I agree with the 'coin spent time in the ground' statement. I have found several nickels like that. Cheers, RickO

@slimbert said:
Thanks for the responses.

I thought it was unlikely that it was a mint error, but more more curious what the "something else" might be.

Sounds like several of you have seen similar looks in ground / dirt nickels. Of the dirt nickels I've seen, none have had this much of a copper-like appearance, so I wanted some second opinions.

Thanks!

Welcome aboard, slimbert.
Since you have an exhumed nickel, say a few prayers over it and re-burry it. lol
Wayne

Nothing special.

I love the look that a dug coin has I have several that will hurt your eyes they look so good. If I find one in a shop I would throw them a doarllar for it. My kids and grandkids will love to see something like that it may not be a error but I think if you think out side the box a little you might just have something but we will never know good hunting

Almost certainly discolored or platted outside the Mint.

@1Bufffan said:
don't forget five cent pieces are 75% copper and 25% nickel if you put it in acetone to long this happens sometimes.

beat me to the punch, nickels are whitened copper but still copper coins