Possible Matte Proof 1913 Type 1 Buffalo Nickel?
InGodWeTrustCoins
Posts: 171 ✭✭✭
For some reason this coin just looks 'off' to me. Extremely strong strike. Does anyone have matte proof diagnostics that could help? The edges do seem sharp.
5
Comments
Here is certified example of a 1913 Type I Buffalo in Matte Proof.
One of the characteristics of the Matte Proof is that the edge of the coin is very bright, like a brilliant Proof. Dave Bowers pointed this out years ago and raised the possibility that some coins in Matte Proof holders could not be proven as such because you could not see the edge. NGC reholdered this piece for me free of charge, which proved that it is a Matte Proof.
I’m betting no your Buffalo looks anorexic
That is an interesting one for sure.
I'd think there is a chance, otherwise an extremely strong strike.
peacockcoins
I would say no because of the prominent metal flow lines on the Indian's hair, temple, and neck, as well as around the rim. It's a shame that it was cleaned, because the luster was probably phenomenal beforehand.
Young Numismatist • My Toned Coins
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I don't care for the rough patches on the Indian's hair from the forehead to the feather. There is also a rough spot on the neck. That looks like die rust. You don't see that on Matte Proofs.
I dont know if it is a proof strike, but I think it's a really nice strike and appearance.
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The OP's Buffalo nickel reminds me of a Walking Liberty half dollar that was questioned as a possible proof as the strike appeared 3 dimensional.
I'll try and locate that thread as it was equally entertaining as it was informative.
peacockcoins
Look for a 1933-S half.😉
Mark Feld* of Heritage Auctions*Unless otherwise noted, my posts here represent my personal opinions.
Here you go!
https://forums.collectors.com/discussion/995161/raw-1933-s-half-just-sold-for-10k-in-czech-auction/p1
In honor of the memory of Cpl. Michael E. Thompson
Without seeing the reflectivity of the edge, I vote NO. Looking at the proof TrueView they have show, none of them have the mottled die erosion seen on your coin in the upper back of neck or lower jaw. It is an interesting coin though.
https://pcgs.com/coinfacts/coin/1913-5c-type-1/images/3988
Thanks guys.
This Buffalo so reminds me of the Walker in strike and overall appearance, especially so on the reverse:
peacockcoins
The OP's coin is one heck of a strike. Look at the area above Liberty and the rim. Although the coin does not look original (possibly buffed leaving a fin on the inner rim next to the Bison's head) I would rather have it than Bill's because the OP's coin is something different or unusual.
No
If this helps, here are some photos of mine:
Steve
My collecting “Pride & Joy” is my PCGS Registry Dansco 7070 Set:
https://www.pcgs.com/setregistry/type-sets/design-type-sets/complete-dansco-7070-modified-type-set-1796-date/publishedset/213996
@FlyingAl
It's not a proof. It's a very well struck circulation piece.
A look at the edge will tell the tale.
Pete
Agreed.
I’m going to say Proof. Here’s a single field feature which is an exact match between the OP coin and the later proof image. It’s a feature above the T in Liberty.
Are you cropping images from the Mars Rover, @ambro51?
In honor of the memory of Cpl. Michael E. Thompson
No. The photos on this thread. But like others point out, a good view of the edge will really tell the tale. A little feature like this though seems to indicate the pieces came from the same die. Look closely and see if you notice other small features that can be used as a diagnostic.
The reverse almost looks like one of the early trial strikes but with "F" on the obverse it cannot be, the weight was a little heavy so if your weight is 5 grams, you may have what you are hoping for in a circulated proof.
Hmm, I would say if the price right who cares which pigeonhole - although of passing interest if it is. Not that it matters but felt it was well struck and attractive business strike based on similar comments to the others above.
Well, just Love coins, period.
If there are no die markers then the question would be if there is enough there to get a definitive answer from a TPG.
Die wear tells the story - not a Proof.
The Proof dies for this particular type were reused for business strikes, and there are actually MS coins in TPG PR holders. Regardless, this is not one such PR.
End of story!
Steve
My collecting “Pride & Joy” is my PCGS Registry Dansco 7070 Set:
https://www.pcgs.com/setregistry/type-sets/design-type-sets/complete-dansco-7070-modified-type-set-1796-date/publishedset/213996
The rim finning by the Buffalo's head on the reverse tells me not a proof.
"Those who would give up essential Liberty, to purchase a little temporary Safety, deserve neither Liberty nor Safety," --- Benjamin Franklin
Looking at an image is far different than examining the coin in hand. Not offering thoughts as to the initial question.
Experience the World through Numismatics...it's more than you can imagine.
1913's can come extremely well struck.
This looks like an AU that has had the patina rubbed off the highest points giving it the illusion of a better strike.
Additionally I see some die erosion(neck and hair) which would not be present on a proof. I think there is a 0% chance this is a proof.
Here is a circulation strike example, I believe this one is also from proof dies. I've shown it before but may as well repost it. MS66 W/CAC, the first time I posted it someone asked if it was a proof.
Collector, occasional seller