1936 Buffalo Nickel With An S Stamped

@rd, first welcome to CCF. Second that counterstamp was added to this nickel at some point after the coin left the mint. It is called a "maveric" as it has an unknown purpose (compared with some counterstamps which were used to advertise businesses).

to the CCF

It's quite possible that the "S" counterstamp was punched by a jeweler. S-stamps often indicate Silver. If so, then why might a jeweler stamp this S on a coin of nickel composition? Nickel is a much harder metal than silver. Perhaps, the jeweler wanted to test the quality of his letter punch?

The study of counterstamps often entails speculation. That said, identified stamps on coins can often greatly increase the value of a piece. Likewise, random, maverick stamps like this "S" mark typically decrease a coin's value. In this case, the owner has a coin that can be a conversation piece.

BTW, many 1936-S Buffalo nickels can be found with an S/S mint mark. By using a strong glass, look for a doubling effect on the mintmark. This issue carries a modest premium value.

to the Community!

Having studied and written about counterstamped coins for four decades, I've yet to attribute a headache to this pursuit. Advertising was but one of many reasons that folks counterstamp coins. The practice was and still is not as critical naysayers male it out to be.

Coins, whether stamped or not, are artifacts. Counterstamped coins, mavericks aside, have more of a story to tell about human endeavors; this, if one takes the time and makes the effort to study them.