How to Figure Out the Date on a Buffalo Nickel

Because buffalo nickels have been heavily circulated for decades, the dates on many of these nickels have worn off. If the date on a buffalo nickel is lost, then the coin isn't worth anything. However, by using a ferric chloride solution, you can usually recover the date on your buffalo nickel. According to Michael Davis, an employee of Century Coin Group, this process is called "acid dating."

Things You'll Need

• Ferric chloride
• Dropper
• Rag or washcloth

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Instructions

1. • 1

     Ensure the container's lid is screwed on tightly and carefully shake your ferric acid.

   • 2

     Place an old rag or washcloth on a smooth surface and put your coin on top.

   • 3

     Remove the dropper from the ferric chloride container and place one small drop on the southern region of the face of the coin.

   • 4

     Use your rag or washcloth to rub off the excess ferric chloride. The date should now be visible.