Counterfeit Detection: Altered 1926-D Buffalo Nickel

The 1926-D Buffalo Nickel is a popular coin among collectors due to its historic significance and its place in the broader series of Buffalo Nickels. While this coin holds value in both its unaltered and higher-grade conditions, it also attracts the attention of counterfeiters who attempt to deceive collectors by altering existing coins.One of the most common forms of alteration for a 1926-D Buffalo Nickel is “date alteration,” where the original date is manipulated to make the coin appear to be a rarer, more valuable version than it actually is. Understanding how to detect such alterations is crucial for any serious coin collector or investor.

The 1926-D Buffalo Nickel

The Buffalo Nickel, officially known as the Indian Head Nickel, was designed by James Earle Fraser and first minted in 1913. It quickly became one of the most beloved coins of its era, featuring a Native American chief on the obverse and a buffalo on the reverse. The 1926-D variety is significant for collectors because the mintmark “D” (representing the Denver Mint) makes it relatively scarce compared to other years of the Buffalo Nickel.

Alteration Methods for the 1926-D Buffalo Nickel

The most common type of alteration performed on the 1926-D Buffalo Nickel involves changing the last digit of the year, typically converting a more common date (such as a 1926) to a rarer one, like the 1926-S or 1926-D in higher grades. The goal of this alteration is to deceive collectors into believing they have a more valuable coin. This can be done through various techniques, such as:

1. Date Overstriking: In this method, the original date is obscured or worn down, and a new number is added to make the coin appear to have a rarer year. This technique is often hard to detect unless the coin is closely examined.
2. Chemical or Physical Alterations: In some cases, counterfeiters will use chemicals or abrasives to wear down the date, then manually re-engrave it with a new, more sought-after year. This process can lead to changes in the coin’s surface, including scratches, pitting, or uneven wear around the date area.
3. Repunching: Counterfeiters may also use a repunching technique, where the original year is slightly altered or modified by applying a new punch die to the coin, resulting in a coin with two different impressions of the same digit.

Detecting Alterations

Detecting altered Buffalo Nickels, particularly those with manipulated dates, requires a keen eye and knowledge of the coin’s original characteristics. Here are some tips for detecting altered 1926-D Buffalo Nickels:

1. Inspect the Date Area: Look closely at the date for any signs of overstriking, additional digits, or inconsistencies in the font. A close inspection under magnification may reveal the original date remnants beneath the altered digits.
2. Examine the Surface for Abrasions: Coins that have been altered chemically or physically may show signs of abrasions, scratches, or unusual wear around the date area. These imperfections can be a sign of tampering.
3. Use a Professional Grading Service: If you suspect that your 1926-D Buffalo Nickel has been altered, it’s always a good idea to submit it to a professional grading service like PCGS or NGC. These services use high-resolution imaging and advanced techniques to detect alterations and provide an accurate grade.

Conclusion

The altered 1926-D Buffalo Nickel represents an example of how counterfeiters target coins with potential value for fraudulent gain. Understanding how alterations occur and knowing the signs to look for are essential skills for any collector. Through careful examination and using the tools available, collectors can protect themselves from purchasing altered coins.

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