I am looking to purchase this proof 1880 Indian Head cent. The detail around the ear looks light to me but I am not an expert on weak striking on Indian proofs. Do you guys see anything I should be concerned about with this coin? Thanks
Are better pictures available? Something just seems off and it could just be the yellow background. Personally I would not buy a raw proof indian.
I agree completely... there is a reason this proof Indian head cent hasn't been graded... it's either not a proof... or it's got problems.
It would be extremely foolish to buy that coin based on that image. The fact that you even asked about doing so makes me think you are setting yourself up for trouble in your coin buying activities.
I would not dream of buying an uncertified proof IHC sight unseen. Additionally, when you ask for advice on a potential purchase, it would be nice to include the following information. What is the dealer's grade? What is the asking price? Why is the coin not certified? Is there a return policy and if so, what is it?
Answers to your questions: - It is being sold by a private party - $115 - Bought at an estate sale recently and it was uncertified - 7 day return policy offered by seller (not including return shipping)
Do you know it was purchased at an estate sale? That's a very typical sales-line to lure the unsuspecting bargain hunter. Regardless, I think you've gotten good advice in this thread and should stay away from the coin unless you have the requisite skill to answer these types of questions yourself.
In 1880, there were 3,955 proofs minted, and 38,961,000 circulation coins minted. If it is proof, that coin is worth around $250, and if it is not a proof, it is worth around $90. In my opinion, it seems to be a proof, but you never know; it could just be a prooflike coin. Good luck.
From those low-quality pics, I can tell the 2nd 8 is broken in the right place to be from the obverse proof dies. However, the snow-3 for the regular issue also has the 8 broken in the same place. I need to see a close up of the rest of the date to fully match them up to Rick Snow's book. Even this is a real proof (and that is where I'm leaning), I fully concur that there is a reason this baby isn't slabbed already.
