http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=190237505988 What are you guys thoughts about this 1827 Half Dollar?
Well, Ben, the first thing that jumps out is the color. On the obverse, the bust has a cameo appearance which looks unnatural, perhaps an intentional attempt to make it more attractive. Both sides, particulary the reverse, show a dramatic change in the color of the fields. They change abruptly from a soft grey to a very dark sea-green. That, coupled with the lack of luster, indicates cleaning - possibly multiple times. Details-wise, I suppose the dealer's estimate of XF seems reasonable - maybe a little high.
It looks like someone spilled glue on it or some other liquid substance. Edit: referring to first coin
The type of appearance of the first coin used to bother me. But I since decided that look alone isn't enough to disqualify a coin. I find the appearance of the second coin more disturbing. Higher grade, but...?
It looks as if it's been dipped and retoned. There should be more toning on the devices, they are too bright to be original. It's still highly attractive, and is probably acceptable to most collectors. And even problem coins like these make it into slabs, so who knows.
I don't see anything wrong with #2. In fact, i would like to 'borrow' it form you, for, oh, say 20 to 40 years. As for #1, it may have been rubbed with a thumb, but not bad looking.
I like the 1st one more than the 2nd one , but I would buy either . an old sage once told me how many 180 year old coins haven't taken at least 1 bath . Just hope the 2nd one retones a little nicer , cause it's in great shape . rzage
I like the second one better. IMO it actually looks to have less wear. In fact the first one looks a little more suspect to me because of the stark contrast between the dark and light areas of the fields. The toning on the second one could be natural IMO. I have seen silver develop a creamy white patina, although not common it does happen. The yellow light that the picture was taken in may contribute to "wierdness". I would say the 1830 is in high AU if not low MS condition. I have a hard time distinguishing wear on thes coins because some of the die varieties can really throw you off almost as if they were struck with "flat spots". EDIT** Actually the more I look at the second one, the more I want it! I do think it would grade close to AU55 **EDIT Honestly that is just a guess because I am just starting look closely at Bust Halfs. I really like how the tip of the 2 in 1827 curls around.
Don't know sir. Haven't gotten the 1827 yet, I was thinking EF/XF-40/45. The 1830 however... Well that is a whole other story altogether. Check out this link and look closely at the 1830. Tell me what you think. The seller just wouldn't come down to my maximum offer of $200.00 I suppose it's one of those coins you have to have INHAND... http://www.premiumnumismatics.com/d...art=121638838110383445&--eqskudatarq=05966871
I would have to see the 1830 in hand, not sure I like the color. The details on the coin are great, but sometimes the toning is a turn off for me. The 1827 is also a nice coin, but in honesty I do not like the chalky looking color. I bet your pictures show the color of the 1827 better.
holy cow that is one nice coin. 200 lol nice coins, cant wait to hear your opinion on both of them when they come in.
