Just snagged this sweet little coin. It is, of course, prooflike. The prooflikes of 1968-1972 have a unique finish unlike most other PLs of the 20th century, and are quite beautiful. Dimes are significantly less common in PL than their Kennedy counterparts. Anyways, go ahead and guess the grade! Also, tell me which obverse picture you like better, and why. I'm torn and like them both.
No, it was struck that way. The only thing that removes a coin from mint state is wear. And nowhere on this coin is there wear.
I don't think it is a late die state, because the rest of the details are crisp. This is more likely due to a weak strike. The torch lines are the highest point on a coin, and thus a weak strike will not fully bring up the details. This is why FT coins sell for premiums.
I like the top photo the best. There is more of a light reflection on the bottom photo. The angle of light also gives the face a darker finish.
Nope, I mean FT. Full Bands (or, Full Split Bands) is used for Mercury dimes. Full Torch is used for Roosevelts: https://coinweek.com/us-coins/modern-dime-designations-what-are-full-bands-and-full-torch/
I knew that! I guess you're still looking for grades. I'm still thinking about it and comparing the torch to other MS's. I'll go 64.
Oh, that's right, I guess they do. I always forget about PCGS strike designations because they are worthless.
I guessed 65 (not FT)...fields look clean, but there are scattered hits I like both pictures (I don't see either being significantly better or worse than the other)
You're not wrong. But I think it applies more to the PCGS registry, since it has historically always been PCGS only. And, the NGC strike designations are far more widely respected.