Expert: PAPAJACK - 5/15/2007

Question
QUESTION: I've found a Westward Series nickel with an error. It had a coin or blank covering part of the reverse side when it when it was struck so part of the blank's rim is intact and an area of the image is missing. What type of error is this and might it have any value? Thanks
ANSWER: Hello Thomas,          

Hard to say without seeing the coin myself.  On a multiple struck error - the coin has an additional image from the second time. This usually happens on less than half the coin. The value increases with the number of strikes the coin has had.
This occurs when a finished coin goes back into the press and is struck again with the same dies.
If the second image pressed into the coin is reversed it is called a Brockage Error, or is blank where the edge of a coin got stuck it is not the same type of error.

These nickels sell from 2 to $10 except for the more rare brockage error.

For more information on errors look for the "The ERROR COIN ENCYCLOPEDIA" by Arnold Margolis

I also want to mention COMBINED ORGANIZATION of NUMISMATIC ERROR COLLECTORS ASSOCIATION, they are the ultimate experts in the error coin field.  
CONECA is a national numismatic organization devoted to the education of error and variety coin collectors. CONECA focuses on many error and variety specialties, including doubled dies, Repunched mint marks, multiple errors, clips, double strikes, off-metals and off-centers just to name a few.

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If there any more information you require on this question just ask.

Thank You and Good Luck

PapaJack


---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thank You again for your time. I do have a photo if seeing it would halp. I scanned the nickel to enlarge it. While looking for information on this coin I found that error 2005 "Buffalo" nickels have been found and can be valued between $75 to $1400 depending on condition. My nickel had been in circulation for a while and does have some wear. Thanks again.
Thomas

Answer
Hello Thomas,   

Thank you for the follow up.  A photograph does not usually help in valuing a coin. If the coin is authenticated and encapsulated it usually gets a higher sale price as well.

Please feel free to send the image of your coin to me at coins@writeme.com I will take a look and see if I can give you more information.

Only an what an error collector is willing to pay decides the value.

Thank You and Good Luck

PapaJack