The 1927-S Buffalo nickel is a challenging semi-key issue that becomes increasingly tough the higher one goes up the grading spectrum. Many 1927-S Buffalo nickels exhibit weaker strikes, though a great many do show indications of proof-like fields due to frequent die polishing to mitigate die clash marks and other imperfections. It is a very rare issue in Gem grades, with likely fewer than 50 extant in MS65 or better.