As I posted recently, I was given a raw 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent for my birthday. I have been considering submitting it to PCGS to be graded. What do you think the grade would come as if submitted to PCGS.
I'm not an expert coin grader but the wear on the high points of the obverse is very visible. For this reason, I rate it an EF45, though it might be AU50-AU53 depending on how pennies are typically graded. Update: I see PCGS is very liberal with regard to Lincoln cents, so I will go with a lower-range AU.
I think you got a FAKE S mint 1909 VDB cent. I need this one for my set. So, please save your money and send it my way. I will pay you 3 dollars and a BTW. Happy B=Day. All kidding aside, AU55 is strong and reasonable grade for this coin. Good Luck
It might just get a bump to 50 for being a key. The wheat grains are strong but the lines trouble me. I don't think the reverse ding will keep it from grading. On a grumpy PCGS day, 40-45. Keep in mind, there is a chance they would genuine it if the color looks off in hand. That wouldn't necessarily be a bad thing, so don't sweat it and get on to sending it.
I agree that the color of the coin doesn't seem to match the wear in the coin. Never the less as stated before I believe it's still an AU example. Now what they grade it is different. Even with the spot on the obverse at 4-5 o'clock I think it's a very nice coin and something to be proud of. Dusty
I should have said. I love the coin and would have no problem seeing it in my collection. Still a great coin.
The color of the coin in the photos doesn't really represent the color in hand. The photo gives it almost a lacquered look which it does not have in hand. I think it is the lighting I used (I had a really hard time getting a clear photo). The only issue with the coin I see in hand is the spot on the rim...which I don't know what it is.
Here are some new photos that better illustrate the color. The focus isn't that great, but the color is more accurate:
Looks like a low AU to me, but the reverse might be better than the obverse. Coincidentally, the poll ends on my birthday!
Great coin man! I voted it at an EF-40 but after looking at the responses I'm reconsidering and think it might come back EF-45 maybe. In my opinion EF-45 is a bit of a stretch while AU is out of the question. Whatever the case may be this 1909-S is definitely an amazing coin. Congrats!