This looks very nice, I think it's UNC, but the black spots and corrosion around A and H on the obverse make me nervous. Do you think this will get a clean grade from NGC?
I know nothing about this coin or medal/whatever it may be. Kinda cool but those black spots and deep scratches on the side with the guy, kinda kill it for me.
The coin appears to be genuine from what info. is available. I would wait for others who are knowledgeable to weigh-in.
That's a huge, but different, topic about authenticity. The dealer claims an expert from Hermitage looked at it and "didn't have any doubts".
If you will notice, I said "appears to be genuine" and he would know much more than I. Did he also tell you that it was uncirculated or offer an opinion?
Relaying dealer's words is all I can do. He claims Hermitage offered to buy it from him. This part I highly doubt.
The magic word, "Claims." Is this dealer reputable? Have others attested to his reputation? Are you considering the purchase of this coin?
Yes, with partners. He is a reputable dealer. I am sure I will get my money back if it's not genuine. However, the fact that he hadn't graded it doesn't make sense. I don't think corrosion or those black spots (mold?) will give me a clean grade.
You may be correct. If you read the article, this coin should weigh-in around the mid four figure mark, subject to the issues you indicated. This is my unprofessional opinion. I was hoping others would chime in by now. I would still wait for others to comment, were I you.
I see signs of environmental damage on both sides. NCS may be able to do something with it but that's not likely. That said, if it is genuine and can be purchased at the right price it could still be worthwhile.
I rather doubt it, looks to have been harshly cleaned to me. And the scratches on the obv, those may be judged to be severe enough to warrant a no grade all by themselves.
I think it's likely to be genuine but it maybe a detail grade. To be honest if it's at a right price, I'll take it. You can always upgrade later. It's one of those coins that rarely appear in the market.
