GRADING STANDARDS

Buffalo Nickels


GOOD:

OBVERSE: Entire design well worn with very little detail remaining in central part. LIBERTY is weak and merged with rim.

REVERSE: Buffalo is nearly flat but well outlined. Horn does not show. Legend is weak but readable. Rim worn to tops of letters.


VERY GOOD:

OBVERSE: Outline of hair is visible at temple and near cheekbone. LIBERTY merges with rim. Date is clear.

REVERSE: Some detail shows in head. Lettering is all clear. Horn is worn nearly flat but is partially visible.


FINE:

OBVERSE: Three-quarters of details show in the hair and braid. LIBERTY is plain.

REVERSE: Major details visible along the back. Horn and tail are smooth but three-quarters visible.


VERY FINE:

OBVERSE: Hair and cheek show considerable flatness, but all details are clear. Feathers still show partial detail.

REVERSE: Hair on head is worn. Tail and point of horn are visible.


EXTREMELY FINE:

OBVERSE: Hair and face are slightly worn but well defined and bold. Slight wear shows on the lines of hair braid.

REVERSE: Horn and end of tail are worn but all details are visible.



Grading Standards are set by the American Numismatic Association as outlined in the Official A.N.A. Grading Standards for United States Coins, Fifth Edition, copyright © 1996. This reference book is available for purchase for $13.95. Hyperlink to our Coin Supplies Page for more information.

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