1798 Draped Bust Large Cent. Sheldon S-166 with large reverse die break. It also has about a 30° die rotation which is common in the series. I bought this coin a long time ago at auction - the price was right and it was my first 18th century coin. I've always wondered if the damage would keep it from grading. any thoughts? Sorry for the lack of a decent camera.
I own one early copper that in my eyes is very over graded. It is more worn and has more problems than yours yet it is in a VF-20 slab. I have heard.... And this is only hearsay..... But have heard that the TPG’s tend to be more lenient on these early coppers. I believe the gamble is heavily in your favor on this one.
No, the obverse scratches will prevent it from straight grading. Also, the green all over the coin will prevent it from straight grading.
Thanks for all the input. I may take to the LCS and see what they think. I have some verdi-care, I will treat it and see what it does for the green corrosion.
Well please update the thread once you do. I happen to be very taken with your old copper. As extensive as my collection is, the earliest US coin I own is dated 1801. Something magical to me about an 18th century US coin.
Some B&Ms are very good at grading to individual TPG standards, but many are not. Yes, I understand this may not make a lot of sense, but is just how it is and is why it's always wise to understand a dealer's strengths before taking their word over anyone else's. This, of course, goes for all dealers, real or imagined.
I did not mean to imply the LCS's opinion was any better than those expressed here, simply an additional one. I'm looking for thoughts on the coin's damage the feedback has proven useful.
My post wasn't necessarily intended for you, but made in a general sense for those who may not understand this reality. Unfortunately, we regularly see folks under the impression that "dealer" is synonymous with "expert". Perhaps I should have been more clear. With that said I too would hope the coin would be gennied. This is nothing personal, of course, but only because I feel it deserving.
