Identifying a 1935 Rotated Die Error Buffalo Nickel
Looking at the obverse side with the Indian’s face in a normal portrait position. Turn the nickel to the right or left, which direction is the buffalo facing and are the feet pointing up or down?
First, let’s address your question and then we’ll go into further detail.
To start, you are holding the nickel in your hand:
The Indian bust on the obverse is facing right side up, looking right, or east.
Turn the nickel from left to right on a vertical axis.
The buffalo is facing right, or east.
The buffalo’s feet are facing up.
Coin Alignment, Medallic Alignment, and Rotated Die Errors
Coin alignment differs from medallic alignment. Medallic alignment would show the obverse and reverse facing right side up when turned from left to right, or when rotated on a horizontal axis.
With coin alignment, the designs are aligned opposite of each other. When coins are in medallic alignment, the designs of the obverse and reverse share the same position.
Like other U.S. coins, the Indian Head Buffalo nickel series was made with coin alignment. This means turning the coin end over end on a horizontal axis shows both faces upright or that the reverse is upside down if you turn it on a vertical axis.
If neither coin nor medallic alignment describes your nickel, it is probably a rotated die error. Calculating the value of this error coin is dependent on factors like the relative scarcity of the coin and error as well as the coin’s condition.
Most rotated die errors on similar Buffalo nickels do not add much unless the rotation is 45 degrees or greater. You could send this in for grading, but there is no guarantee of gaining value.
The best course of action, if you choose not to have your nickel graded, is to preserve its condition and enjoy a tangible piece of American history.
