Just got back from 3 different coin shops and all 3 agreed this was most likely a MPL... What do you think? Proof or just a well toned early die state business strike?!?
I think you should sell it to the one who offers the most money. The lump in the "9" is on one of the dies.
You really need to get this certified, people in the market for a MP won’t buy raw. And the TPG will be able to settle the score once and for all on whether it’s a proof or not. It’s like $35 to send. Just do it
Shhhhh, if they don't authenticate it, he can't sell it. If someone is willing to bite, set the hook!
See those marks on Lincoln's shoulder? Those would be planchet marks. Small dings that appeared on the planchet before striking due to other planchets hitting it. The shoulder of Lincoln is a weaker point that when struck didnt always erase those marks. Matte proof planchets were special and never touched one another, therefore shouldnt show any planchet marks on the shoulder of Lincoln. Your rims arent square enough either, especially on the reverse. Also, the master hubs were given more details in 1915 making the 1915 and 1916 Lincolns much sharper. So much so that a lot of times MS 1915 and 1916 Lincoln's often get mistaken for proofs. If that's a proof (it's not), then so is mine
The coin has had some wear and scratches unfortunately happen to it. Could still easily be a MPL. Way closer than your 1916. Especially the reverse devices. Has ALL die markers for known DIE PAIR #1.
Great pull it out of the cardboard and take a proper shot of the coin. And please show those markers. And while you're at it, go read about coiner's intent.
Interested to hear more from this thread. I would send it in for grading. I agree that anyone looking to buy a matte proof Lincoln would rather buy a certified one than a raw one. In any case, it's a very nice coin.
Insider I see what looks like chamfered edges on the rim and the lump in the 9 is only seen in one photo, why ? I do not think it is one either. IMO, Jim
Isn’t this the second raw early Lincoln matte proof you believe you’ve found? Send them in and see what they grade. That will settle the score. What is there to lose?
I swear we get at least a dozen of these people per year, posting a potential windfall yet refusing to send them in, and rejecting all professional opinions. Why??
My advice would be to sell it to one of those shops as a matte proof then. if they think it is. I don't. They may SAY they think it is a matte proof, but I doubt they will put their money where their mouth is. You try and dell it to them as a matte proof they will hem and haw and say they will buy it if you get it certified as one.