Is it possible for an early date buffalo nickel to actually straight-grade "poor"? Post one if you have it, please! 1 1

[EarlyUS.com]

I am reviewing a few partial sets of buffalo nickels and found a surprising number with acid dates.  Strangely, the nic-a-date coins often have VG or better sharpness aside from the date being worn off.  Then it occurred to me that if a buffalo nickel wore down below, say AG-3, then surely the date would be gone completely, right?  Or can you post a certified example at FA-2 or PO-1?  Note that I'm generally referring to early dates -- probably pre-1925, as it seems like later issues retained their dates better, though here again, I have never seen a 1938-D in poor, or even fair grade.

[Henri Charriere]

They do exist but have so little value that only a low-ball fanatic would attempt to assemble a set.  The key feature is the date.  Good question!

[RWB]

Could you buy a nice VG coin, then coat the date with varnish, and carry it in your pocket for another 15 years to get to "Poor" grade?

[Henri Charriere]

The unvarnished truth is though it may seem feasible, it would not be possible.  (One more thing the graders and forensic technicians in conservation will be on the lookout for.)  🤣

[Rosie Beard]

Even while they do exist, only a true low-ball devotee would bother trying to put together a complete set.  The date is the most important detail.  That is a great question!

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