I've been collecting coins for about 20 years now, all raw nothing graded. I came across a collection of commemorative sillver dollars at and estate sale so I took advantage of a low price and gobbled them up. I'm now trying to enter these into my computer database that I use to catalogue my collection. I'm not the best at grading, but my question is this: if the proof commemorative coin has never been touched and is still in its plastic holder, what would the average grade of that proof coin be (PF66?). I know there's lots of circumstances that could affect that, but I'm just looking for what the average grade would be if that was popped out and sent to be graded.
There really is no "average" grade for proof commemorative coins. It all will depend on the condition of the coin. How it was stored, any water/humidity issues, etc. The capsules are not airtight on those coins so the fact that the coin has never been touched or is still in the capsule doesn't always mean the coin will be in great condition. Which commemorative coins do you have? Unless they're low mintage it may not be worth it to get them graded.
Most modern proofs are from the era when the mint pretty well had it down to a science. If they show any toning and the frost is full PR68DCAM is almost a lock no toning at all and they will probably be PR69DCAM'S. Sad fact neither of those grades really make professional grading profitable. Reason being that large dealers have submitted more of them than there is a market for already.
I was able to pick up every proof silver dollar commemorative from 1983 through 1995. That includes all the varieties of the 95 Olympics. I'll label them in my system as PR68 but based on your guys' opinions I definitely won't submit them.
Nice haul If you're able to attend a grading seminar at the ANA (American Numismatic Association) I would highly recommend that you do. I hear so many good things about it. I hoping to make it there in the next couple of years or so. Plus learning to grade makes you a more knowledgeable numismatist and lets you make informed decisions when buying coins.
I don't think toning knocks the grade down. it's all about marks. maybe the eye appeal as some don't like toning, some people are neutral, and some think it adds to the appeal
All I can say is I have not seem PCGS graded proofs above 68 if toned in my experience. Personal opinions aside I am in the liking them club.
Too bad the collection stopped at 1995, cause mintages for olympic coins were really low the next year.
