I've noticed this on an 1868 3 cent nickel I planned on bidding on. Top of coin. Not sure what to think of it.
Looks like old Solder metal that was added on. There was probably a pin attached to the Reverse and use as a lapel piece. Does the seller mention anything about it?
No the seller doesn't mention anything. He is an antique dealer and says it is genuine. I'll add a photo of the front.
Thanks for your advice. These don't come up often here in NZ, but this one's just a little bit too suspicious.
They've just made an offer of $12.50NZD (7.55 USD). Were you saying stay away because it was fake or because it was Damaged? Apologies if this posts twice. My Internet has been playing up.
I collect this series. 1868 is a very common year. This coin was once a piece of jewelry and as Paddy said, will forever be damaged goods. Having said this, at under ten dollars it is a nice piece of history for very little cash outlay. You will spend around $30.00-$50.00 for an undamaged similarly circulated coin. I believe the price is fair for what it is.