Question about a 1964 Nickel? 0

[Missbella]

I am new to the coin collecting scene and have a question on a possible cameo 1964 Nickel.  Any thoughts  will be appreciated.. 

[JKK]

Cameo most often refers to uncirculated (typically proof) coins with devices that stand out from glossy fields in a sort of matte relief (though it would be possible for some of the cameo effect to survive limited circulation). This is a circulated example of one of the most common Jeff nickel issues, so cameo does not apply. It's only worth $0.05.

Here is an example of the real deal.

Edited April 21, 2019 by JKK

[Missbella]

Ok thank you very much..  I see the difference... 

[Missbella]

Do u know why it has that black look to it.. I had this nickel for a long time before I got more interested in coins.  I thought it was awesome looking so I kept it in a coin sleeve until I seen an article on the cameo nickel... I just needed to find out...

 

[Mohawk]

My guess for the black coloration is some kind of corrosion or environmental damage.  These kinds of damage result from storage in a hostile environment or exposure to some kind of chemical agent which causes the metal to begin breaking down.  Jefferson Nickels are 75% copper, which is a very reactive metal that is prone to these kinds of problems when circulated or stored improperly.  I think your coin is just showing the effects of 55 years of circulation.

[JKK]

46 minutes ago, Missbella said:

Do u know why it has that black look to it.. I had this nickel for a long time before I got more interested in coins.  I thought it was awesome looking so I kept it in a coin sleeve until I seen an article on the cameo nickel... I just needed to find out...

 

It's good you asked. I think it's just circulation effects of tarnish and crudulation, as Tom described. The nickel is very tough stuff, but the copper not so much.

[Missbella]

Thank you

[Just Bob]

4 hours ago, JKK said:

 crudulation

Is that a real word? 

[Mohawk]

Just now, Just Bob said:

Is that a real word? 

If it's not, it should be.  If you have any experience with zinc coins or ancient bronzes, crudulation is a necessary term at times .   Have you ever seen an ancient suffering from bronze disease?  That is the very definition of crudulation.

[Just Bob]

5 minutes ago, Mohawk said:

Have you ever seen an ancient suffering from bronze disease?  That is the very definition of crudulation.

Not only have I seen it, I own a couple.

I think I may start using this word, too.

[JKK]

1 hour ago, Just Bob said:

Not only have I seen it, I own a couple.

I think I may start using this word, too.

In the coin world, I have found it most helpful. Enjoy.