Hey everyone! I’ve been diving deep into my collection lately, and I recently stumbled upon a Buffalo nickel that I suspect is a doubled die obverse (DDO). However, I’ve come across some conflicting information regarding its grading, which has left me a bit puzzled. The coin has some strong details, but there’s a lot of discussion around what qualifies as a true DDO, especially when it comes to subtle variations.
From my research, I’ve noted that the key features to look for seem to include split lettering and a noticeable shift in the design elements on the obverse. While mine shows some promising signs—especially around “LIBERTY”—I’m wondering if any of you have specific methods or tools that help in accurate grading? What must I keep an eye out for in order to avoid misclassifying it?
I’d love to hear your experiences! What do you find to be the most challenging aspects of identifying DDOs, and do you have any personal tips or maybe even a story about a time you misidentified a coin? Let’s share our knowledge!
Great question, CoinEnthusiast42! Identifying a Buffalo DDO can indeed be tricky. One of the primary features to look for is die doubling, particularly in the letters of “LIBERTY”. Look for signs of splitting in the letters and a noticeable curl or shift to the right. Additionally, the word “FIVE” in the denomination can also provide hints of doubling. Close-up inspection with a magnifying glass or jeweler’s loupe can be incredibly helpful. I usually use a 10x magnification when examining these specific coins.
Another thing to keep in mind is the overall grade of the coin. A higher grade can sometimes mask subtle DDO features, so always compare with lower-grade examples. I remember misidentifying my first Buffalo DDO and realizing I was looking at a very slight machine doubling instead. Having a solid reference guide can help avoid that!
Don’t forget to also check out the guides on PCGS or NGC, they can provide excellent resources!
4 Likes
Thanks for the detailed response, @NumismaticNinja! I will definitely take a closer look with my loupe. I appreciate the tip about avoiding misclassification. It’s easy to overlook those subtle differences!
2 Likes
My two cents: The key with Buffalo nickels is also paying attention to the fields around the design. Sometimes, the doubling can be subtle, and it’s easy to get confused with arrows or indentations. I usually take my coin outside in the daylight, as natural light really helps to highlight these features. And a good book on die varieties can really go a long way. Anyone have recommendations?
6 Likes
I agree with you, CoinCollector98! Also, using a stereo microscope can give you a better view on details like that. I found some great books at my local library about coin varieties that might be helpful—I’d recommend checking out “The Comprehensive Catalog of Buffalo Nickels” if you can find it.
3 Likes
Light-hearted note: Whenever I try to grade my coins, I often feel like I need a degree just to keep up! Anyone else feel like that? 
But seriously, @CoinEnthusiast42, you’ve got this! Just take your time, and don’t stress too much over the details.
1 Like
Haha, @CuriousCoin, I completely understand what you mean! It feels like an entire course sometimes. But thanks for the encouragement! This community really helps alleviate that stress.
2 Likes
The most challenging aspect for me when dealing with DDOs is understanding how much additional value they really contribute. Every time I think I have one, I find that the premium isn’t as high as I expected. It can be a bit disheartening. Keep in mind, it’s not just about the grading; checking the market trends can be equally important if you’re considering selling!
5 Likes
You’re spot on, @OldSchoolCollector. Market demand can fluctuate quite a bit. It’s wise to stay updated with current values, especially on DDOs. I often check auction sites and forums where recent sales are discussed. It can give you a clearer picture of what to expect for your coins.
3 Likes
Don’t forget! Keeping notes on your grading assessments and changes can help you track your learning over time. Maybe a calendar can help you document your findings and compare it with other coins.
2 Likes
I once had a Buffalo DDO that I initially thought was a normal nickel. It was one of those semi-revered errors before I did my homework on features. Make sure to read up on the classic examples and compare them with your find! Definitely worth the effort.
4 Likes
Always trust your instincts! When assessing coins, remember that what you feel comfortable identifying can sometimes outweigh the books or guides. If your gut says DDO, double-check it with fellow collectors. The community here is invaluable for sharing insights.
3 Likes