Looks like missing clad layer. I've looked and searched and seen a couple that appear like this. It's very smooth like new, but red almost rustic color.
Might be environmental damage (corrosion). US nickels are one solid piece of copper and nickel alloy, no cladding. If a corrosive environment leaves the surface more enriched in copper (which is mostly what the coin is made out of), that could make it look more brown. Could also be staining from being next to iron or steel that is rusting.
Ok thank you. I did just read nickels are not clad. I have a few more of these of different dates 80s,90s, and even 2005 Buffalo. Thanks for the feed back. Interested in knowing what would be doing this to them.
All of them feel smooth like the black beauties. They dont feel like they look. All rusted or something. I have been want to metal detect. I do magnet fishing. Especially in old wells
I agree, this certainly looks like a buried coin. Looks like Jefferson's hair shows some sketching, so I believe this nickel has PMD due to environment (bad) conditions. The reddish colour is from tarnishing/corrosion.
Disclaimer: While a tremendous amount of effort goes into ensuring the accuracy of the information contained in this site, Coin Community assumes no liability for errors. Copyright 2005 - 2026 Coin Community Family- all rights reserved worldwide. Use of any images or content on this website without prior written permission of Coin Community or the original lender is strictly prohibited. Contact Us | Advertise Here | Privacy Policy / Terms of Use