Here is a link you can use to compare your coin to for gradinghttp://www.buffalonickels.us/grading.htmlwww. Buffalo nickels dot us slash grading dot htmlAccording to Numismedia (a general price guideline):Good (G4)-
$1Most details can be discerned, but will have a lot of wear. Some of the lettering will be merged with the rim in certain spots.
Very Good (VG8) -
$2Hair is flat, rays have weak spots, part of motto is weak, but with a complete rim.
Fine (F12)-
$4Hair bordering face is weak, slight wear on hair of the neck and the bun, and rays show a trace of wear.
Very Fine (VF30)-(VF20)-
$6Hair details bordering face weak, upper hair wave has light wear, hair by the ear area is worn, but single strands discernable. A VF20 will show a little more wear on above features.
Extra Fine (EF40)-(EF45)-
$12Hair has slight flatness on high points, but most hair strands separated. The face and lower neck lightly worn. A EF45 will show a smaller amount of wear on the above features.
Almost Uncirculated (AU50)-(AU58)-
$20Slight traces of wear on cheek, neck, hair around ear, and forehead; high points only. In AU58, only a slight trace of wear will be evident above the ear, and must not be confused with weak strike. Also, look for traces of slight wear on the rim and reeding; a hint of brief circulation.
Mint State (MS60-MS70)-
$32 and upIs there any letter under the FIVE CENTS on the nickel? a "D?" an "S"?
Edited by j_h_s
05/17/2010 08:53 am