The primary purpose of this book is to present detailed die diagnostic descriptions and photographs to be used to identify and authenticate Buffalo nickel proofs, including matte, satin, and brilliant proofs. This book contains many photographs of diagnostics not published before and a few new die combinations which were not previously listed.

Another objective of this book was to present an analysis of the striking characteristics for Buffalo nickel proofs. Buffalo nickel proofs were struck on a hydraulic press which could strike coins at a much greater pressure than was used for business strikes. Side by side comparisons and photographs were done between proofs and business strikes showing the details of the primary design elements and the rims, edges, and corners. In studying Buffalo nickel proofs side by side against EDS business strikes of the same year, different striking characteristics were found foreach year. Normally, only small differences were found on the design elements. The rims, edges, and corners were the primary where differences were seen. The rim and edges on the proofs were normally wider with flat surfaces. The corners were knife-like on the proofs where they were rounded on the business strikes.

A date-by-date analysis for the proof series is presented. Included for each year is an analysis of striking characteristics, surface characteristics, scarcity analysis, general comments, prices realized from Heritage auctions, current values, and certified population counts. All of this information being useful in collecting and understanding Buffalo nickel proofs.

A detailed analysis is presented on all of the silver and minor proofs counts between 1909 and 1916. This includes all delivery dates for each series. This information is extremely important in determining exactly how many coins were struck. This information is also helpful in determining how proof coins were distributed, whether in minor sets, silver sets, or individually.

National Archive letters and articles published at the time provide use information on the proofs and the creation of the Buffalo nickel. A history section is included in the front of the book as well as sections on the 1913 Type 1 and 2, investing in Buffalo nickel proofs, the proofing process, matte proof creation process, and other sections. For example, learn how the Mint figured out how to create the 1936 Type 2 Brilliant proofs.

Softcover, 123 pages.