Rock Identifier
Buffalo Nickel (Indian Head Nickel) (Cupronickel (75% Copper, 25% Nickel)) — mineral (processed alloy)
mineral (processed alloy)

Buffalo Nickel (Indian Head Nickel)

Cupronickel (75% Copper, 25% Nickel)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 4.5-5.5 (Mohs scale), Color: Dull silver/grey, Luster: Metallic, Crystal Structure: Face-centered cubic (FCC), Cleavage: None, Specific Gravity: 8.8-8.9

Hardness
4
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Physical properties

Hardness: 4.5-5.5 (Mohs scale), Color: Dull silver/grey, Luster: Metallic, Crystal Structure: Face-centered cubic (FCC), Cleavage: None, Specific Gravity: 8.8-8.9

Formation & geological history

Metallurgical smelting and minting process; specifically minted between 1913 and 1938 in the United States.

Uses & applications

Historical legal tender/currency; currently used for numismatic collecting and silver/nickel jewelry insets.

Geological facts

Designed by sculptor James Earle Fraser, featuring a composite profile of three Native American chiefs on the obverse and an American bison (Black Diamond) on the reverse.

Field identification & locations

Identify by the 'Indian Head' obverse and bison reverse. Found in coin collections, antique shops, or via metal detecting near historical sites. Common specimens often have 'dateless' or heavily worn surfaces.

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Metal Alloy (Likely Pewter or Sterling Silver)

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Man-made material (metal)
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Man-made Object (Metalwork)
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Man-made Object (Metal/Alloy)
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mineral