1916 Buffalo Nickel. FS-101. Doubled Die Obverse. EF-40 (PCGS). CAC. OGH.The 1916 Doubled Die Obverse Buffalo nickel in high grades is one of the landmark rarities among lower denomination 20th century coins. This is an exceptionally well preserved, visually appealing example that will certainly catch the eye of astute bidders. Originally toned surfaces are veiled in a blend of dove gray, pale rose and medium orange patina. Boldly to sharply defined throughout with a pleasingly smooth appearance in hand. The rarity of this issue in all grades is attributed to the considerable time that elapsed between its creation and its discovery by collectors. The first published report of the 1916 Doubled Die Obverse appeared in the July 1962 edition of <em>The Numismatic Scrapbook Magazine</em>, and even then it was not until the mid-1970s that most collectors took notice. Since then it has become known as the rarest blundered die variety in the Buffalo nickel series, handily eclipsing the 1917/8-D and, especially, the popular 1937-D 3-Legged. Estimates on the number of survivors range from a couple of hundred to perhaps 400 examples, the vast majority of which are in lower circulated grades. Clearly after several decades of diligent searching numismatists have discovered few examples of this variety, particularly in EF and higher grades. Advanced collectors, be they variety specialists or Buffalo nickel enthusiasts, are sure to compete vigorously for the chance to acquire this important rarity. From the Collection of Thaddeus A. Tatum III.
